What you need to do to get a driver's license
Getting a driver's license involves three main steps: passing a written test on traffic laws, passing a driving test, and submitting required documents to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency. The exact documents, fees, and test rules vary by state, but the basic path is the same everywhere. You'll start by visiting your local DMV office or their website to find out what documents they require, then schedule your tests, and finally pick up your license once you pass.
Most states require you to be at least 16 years old, though some allow learner's permits at 15. If you're under 18, you may need a parent or guardian's signature on your process. The whole process typically takes a few weeks from start to finish, though it can be faster if you prepare your documents ahead of time.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit your state's DMV office in person to explore, bring specific documents like proof of identity and residency, and pay a non-refundable fee.
- The written test covers traffic laws and road signs from your state's driver's manual, which is free and available online or at the DMV.
- The driving test is administered by a DMV examiner who watches you operate a vehicle on public roads for 10 to 30 minutes.
- If you fail either test, you can retake it after a waiting period that varies by state, usually one to seven days.
- Minors often need parental consent and may face restrictions like curfews or passenger limits under graduated licensing laws.
Documents you'll need to bring to the DMV
Your state's DMV website lists the exact documents required, but most states ask for the same core items. Bring a document that proves your identity—a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. You'll also need proof of your Social Security number, usually a Social Security card itself or a tax return. Finally, bring two documents that prove where you live, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your current address.
If you're under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you, along with their ID. Some states allow you to submit a notarized consent form instead if the parent cannot attend. Check your state's DMV website before you go; some states accept documents online or by mail, but most require you to appear in person for the process.
Bring your Social Security card itself if you have it, not a copy. If you don't have a card, bring a W-2 form, tax return, or other official document showing your number. The DMV will not accept a photocopy of a Social Security card.
Taking the written knowledge test
The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices from your state's driver's manual. Your state's DMV publishes this manual for free on their website, and you can also pick up a printed copy at any DMV office. The test is usually 30 to 50 questions, and you need to score around 70 to 80 percent to pass—your state's DMV website will tell you the exact passing score.
You can take the test on a computer at the DMV office, and you'll get your score when ready. If you fail, you can usually retake it after waiting a few days. Some states let you retake it the same day; others require you to wait up to a week. Read your state's manual thoroughly before you test, and pay special attention to speed limits, right-of-way rules, and what different road signs mean.
A few states offer the written test in languages other than English. Check your DMV's website to see if your language is available, and bring any required documents proving you need an interpreter.
Scheduling and taking the driving test
Once you pass the written test, you can schedule your driving test. In most states, you book an appointment through the DMV website or by calling your local office. The test usually takes 10 to 30 minutes and happens on public roads near the DMV office. The examiner will ask you to perform basic tasks like parking, turning, stopping, and merging, and will watch how you handle traffic and follow traffic laws.
Bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance for the vehicle you're using, and the vehicle itself. The car must be registered, have working brakes and lights, and be in safe condition. Some states require a parent or guardian to sit in the car during the test; others do not allow it. Check your state's rules before you schedule.
If you fail the driving test, you can retake it after a waiting period. Most states allow you to retake it within a few days, though some require you to wait up to two weeks. You'll pay a retest fee each time you take it again.
What happens after you pass both tests
Once you pass the driving test, the DMV will issue your license on the spot or mail it to you within one to two weeks, depending on your state. Some states issue a temporary paper license you can use when ready while your plastic card is being printed. Your license will have an expiration date, usually four to eight years away, depending on your state and age.
If you're under 18, your license may come with restrictions. Many states impose a curfew—you cannot drive between certain hours, often 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.—or limit how many passengers you can carry. These restrictions typically lift when you turn 18 or after you've held your license for a certain period. Check your state's graduated licensing law to understand what restrictions explore to you.
Costs and fees
The fee for a driver's license varies by state and ranges from about $20 to $100 for a standard license. Your state's DMV website lists the exact fee. You'll also pay a separate fee each time you take the written or driving test if you fail and need to retake it. Some states charge $5 to $10 per retest; others charge more.
If you need to replace a lost or damaged license, you'll pay a replacement fee, usually $10 to $30. Renewing your license when it expires also costs money, though the fee is often lower than the original license fee. All fees are non-refundable, even if you fail a test.
Getting a learner's permit first
Most states require you to hold a learner's permit before you can take the driving test. A learner's permit lets you drive with a licensed adult in the car and is a step toward getting your full license. To get a learner's permit, you pass the written test and submit your documents to the DMV, just as you would for a full license. The permit is usually valid for six months to a year.
While you hold a learner's permit, you must follow certain rules: a licensed adult must be in the car with you, you cannot drive between certain hours (often 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.), and you may not use a cell phone while driving. These rules vary by state. Check your state's DMV website for the exact restrictions in your area.
Some states let you skip the learner's permit stage if you're over 18, but most require it for anyone under 18. A few states allow you to hold a permit for a minimum time—often 30 to 90 days—before you can take the driving test.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don't have a birth certificate or passport?
You can use other documents to prove your identity, such as a state ID card, military ID, or tribal ID. Your state's DMV website lists all acceptable identity documents. If you don't have any of these, contact your DMV office to ask what alternatives they accept.
Can I take the written test online from home?
Most states require you to take the written test at a DMV office in person. A few states offer online testing for certain groups, such as people with disabilities or those living far from an office. Contact your state's DMV to ask if remote testing is available for you.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can retake it after a waiting period, usually a few days to two weeks depending on your state. You'll pay the retest fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, though some states may require you to take a driver education course if you fail multiple times.
Do I need car insurance to take the driving test?
Yes, most states require proof of insurance for the vehicle you use during the test. Bring your insurance card or a printed copy of your policy. The car must be insured in your name or the name of the person whose car you're using.
How long does a driver's license last?
Most states issue licenses that are valid for four to eight years. Your license will show an expiration date. You can renew it by visiting the DMV before it expires, usually online, by mail, or in person depending on your state.