Who can get a driver's license

Every state sets its own rules for who can hold a driver's license, but most require you to be at least 16 years old and a resident of that state. You'll need to prove your identity with documents like a birth certificate, passport, or state ID card. Most states also require proof of your Social Security number and your current address.

Some states have different age rules for different license types. A learner's permit often comes at 15 or 16, while a full unrestricted license may require you to be 17 or 18. If you're under 18, many states require parental consent or a parent's signature on your process.

Non-citizens can get a driver's license in all 50 states, though the documents you'll need may differ. Some states accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number. A few states issue licenses only to people with lawful immigration status, while others issue them to anyone who can prove residency and identity, regardless of immigration status. Check your state's DMV website to see what applies where you live.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states require you to be at least 16 years old, prove your identity with a birth certificate or passport, and show proof of your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • You'll need to provide your current address and may need parental consent if you're under 18.
  • Non-citizens can get a driver's license in every state, but the documents required and immigration status rules vary by state.
  • Vision and written knowledge tests are required in all states, and a road test is required in most states before you receive your license.
  • Some states have medical or physical restrictions that may affect your ability to hold a license, such as vision requirements or restrictions on certain medications.

Documents you'll need to bring

The exact documents vary by state, but most DMVs require a primary document that proves your identity and date of birth. A U.S. passport, passport card, or certified birth certificate works in nearly every state. If you don't have one of those, your state's DMV website lists acceptable alternatives—often including a school ID, military ID, or tribal ID combined with other documents.

You'll also need proof of your Social Security number. A Social Security card itself is the easiest option, but a W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 also works. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN, which some states accept in place of it. Bring your proof of current address—a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works.

If you're under 18, bring a parent or guardian and their ID. Some states require their signature on your process; others just require them to be present. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because the exact list of acceptable documents changes and varies between locations.

Vision and medical requirements

All 50 states require a vision test before you can get a driver's license. The standard is usually 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, you'll take the test with them on, and your license will note that correction is required. If your vision doesn't meet the standard, you may still be able to get a license with restrictions, such as "corrective lenses required" or "daylight driving only."

Some states ask health questions on the process about conditions like seizure disorders, sleep apnea, or heart problems. These don't automatically disqualify you—most states allow people with these conditions to hold a license, sometimes with restrictions or a doctor's letter confirming you're safe to drive. A few states require a medical exam or a letter from your doctor before issuing a license if you report certain conditions.

If you take medications that affect alertness or coordination, tell the DMV. Some medications don't restrict your license, but others may result in restrictions like "no night driving" or require a doctor's clearance. Your state's DMV can tell you whether a specific medication affects your driving privileges.

Age and permit requirements

Most states issue a learner's permit between ages 15 and 16, which lets you drive with a licensed adult in the car. The permit usually requires passing a written knowledge test but not a road test. You'll hold the permit for a set period—often 6 months to a year—before you can take the road test for a full license.

Some states have a graduated licensing system with multiple stages. You might get a learner's permit first, then an intermediate license with restrictions (like no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. or no passengers under 20), and finally an unrestricted license at 18. Other states skip the intermediate step. The rules vary significantly, so check your state's DMV website for the exact timeline and restrictions that explore to your age.

If you're 18 or older and have never held a license, most states let you skip the learner's permit and go straight to the road test, though you'll still need to pass the written test first. A few states require everyone, regardless of age, to hold a permit for a minimum period before testing for a full license.

Testing requirements

Every state requires a written knowledge test covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test is usually 30 to 50 questions, and you need to score around 80 percent to pass. You can study using your state's DMV handbook, which is free and available online. Most states also offer practice tests on their DMV website.

A road test is required in all states except a handful that allow certain groups (like people renewing an expired license) to skip it. The road test usually lasts 20 to 40 minutes and covers basic driving skills like starting, stopping, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You'll drive in real traffic, not just in a parking lot. The examiner watches for safe habits like checking mirrors, using turn signals, and maintaining safe speed.

Some states let you take the road test in your own car; others provide a test vehicle. A few states require you to bring your own vehicle. Check your state's DMV website to see what applies in your area. You'll need to pass both tests to receive your license.

Residency and citizenship rules

You must be a resident of the state where you're getting a license. Most states define residency as living there for at least 30 days, though some require 60 days. You prove residency with documents like a lease, utility bill, bank statement, or mortgage in your name. If you just moved and don't have a document yet, some states accept a letter from your landlord or a recent mail from a government agency.

U.S. citizens and non-citizens can both get a driver's license. All 50 states issue licenses to non-citizens, but the rules differ. Some states issue a standard license to anyone who meets the other requirements, regardless of immigration status. Others issue a license only to people with lawful immigration status, such as a valid visa or green card. A few states issue a special license or ID card to people without lawful status, which is valid for driving but not for federal purposes like boarding a plane.

To find out what applies to you, visit your state's DMV website and search for "non-citizen" or "immigration status." You can also call your local DMV office and ask what documents you'll need to bring.

Renewal and expiration

Driver's licenses expire on a schedule set by your state, usually every 4 to 8 years. Your expiration date is printed on your license. You can renew before it expires, and many states let you renew online, by mail, or in person at the DMV. Some states require you to retake the vision test or written test when you renew; others don't.

If your license has expired, you may still be able to renew it, but the process may take longer. Some states let you renew an expired license for a set period (often 1 to 5 years after expiration) without retesting. After that period, you'll need to retake the written and road tests as if you were a new driver. Check your state's DMV website to see the renewal rules and important date that explore to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver's license if I don't have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Not all states accept an ITIN, so check your state's DMV website or call your local office to confirm. If your state doesn't accept an ITIN, you may need to explore for a Social Security number first.

What happens if I fail the road test?

You can retake it. Most states let you schedule another test within a few days or weeks. You'll pay the test fee again. There's no limit on how many times you can retake it in most states, though a few states cap retakes at a certain number per year. Check your state's rules before scheduling your next attempt.

Do I need a doctor's letter to get a license if I have a medical condition?

It depends on the condition and your state's rules. Some conditions don't require any documentation. Others require a letter from your doctor confirming you're safe to drive. A few states require a medical exam. Check your state's DMV website or call your local office to find out whether your condition requires documentation.

Can I get a license if I'm homeless?

Yes, though you'll need to prove residency. Most states accept a shelter address, a mailing address at a friend's or family member's home, or a letter from a social services agency as proof of residency. Call your local DMV office to ask what documents they'll accept in your situation.

What if I lost my documents and can't find them?

You can get replacement documents. A birth certificate can be ordered from your state's vital records office, usually online or by mail. A Social Security card can be replaced through the Social Security Administration website or office. These replacements take time, so start early. Your DMV can tell you which documents you absolutely need and which ones you can substitute.