What you need to do to get a driver's license
Getting a driver's license involves three main steps: gathering documents, passing a written test, and passing a driving test. The exact documents you need and the order of these steps depend on your state. Most states let you take the written test before you schedule the driving test, and some require you to hold a learner's permit for a set number of days or months in between. You will visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Secretary of State, or equivalent agency — the name varies by state — to complete the process.
The whole process typically takes several weeks to a few months, depending on how quickly you schedule your tests and how many attempts you need. Some states offer online components for the written test or parts of the process, while others require you to appear in person for everything.
Key Takeaways
- You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or tax ID before you visit the DMV.
- Most states require you to pass a written knowledge test before you can take the driving test, and many require a learner's permit period in between.
- The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices specific to your state.
- The driving test evaluates your ability to operate the vehicle safely, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions.
- Fees vary by state but typically range from $20 to $100 for a driver's license.
Documents you need before you explore
Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Acceptable identity documents include a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address — it usually must be dated within the last 60 days, though this varies by state.
For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an ITIN, which you can obtain from the IRS. Some states also accept a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming your number.
Check your state's DMV website before you go, because document requirements vary. Some states accept digital copies of documents; others require originals. Some require documents to be certified or notarized. Showing up with the wrong documents means a wasted trip.
Taking the written knowledge test
The written test covers your state's traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. Most states give you 30 to 50 questions, and you typically need to answer 70 to 80 percent correctly to pass. The test is usually multiple choice and takes 20 to 30 minutes.
You can study using your state's official driver's manual, which is free and available on your state's DMV website. Many states also offer practice tests online. Some states let you take the written test at a computer terminal at the DMV; others use paper. A few states now offer the written test online from home, though you may need to use a proctoring service.
If you fail the written test, you can usually retake it the same day or within a few days, depending on your state's policy. There is typically a small fee each time you retake it.
Getting a learner's permit and practice driving
After you pass the written test, most states issue a learner's permit, which lets you drive with a licensed adult in the car. The permit is temporary and usually valid for six months to two years. Some states require you to hold the permit for a minimum number of days or months before you can take the driving test — this ranges from a few days to six months depending on your state and your age.
While you hold the permit, you must follow restrictions set by your state. Common restrictions include not driving alone, not driving at night, and not using a cell phone while driving. The exact rules depend on your age and your state.
Use this time to practice driving with a licensed adult. There is no set number of hours required in most states, but the more you practice, the more prepared you will be for the driving test. Some states recommend 50 to 100 hours of practice, with at least 10 hours at night.
Scheduling and taking the driving test
Once you have held your learner's permit for the required time and feel ready, schedule your driving test through your state's DMV. Many states let you book online; others require you to call or visit in person. Tests can book weeks or months in advance in busy areas, so schedule early if you can.
On test day, bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn before the test begins. Arrive early and bring any documents the DMV asked you to bring.
The driving test typically lasts 20 to 40 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, parking, and responding to road conditions. The examiner will ask you to perform specific maneuvers like parallel parking, three-point turns, or lane changes. You must follow all traffic laws during the test — speeding, running a red light, or hitting a curb will result in failure.
If you fail the driving test, you can usually retake it after a waiting period, which ranges from a few days to a few weeks depending on your state. There is typically a fee for each attempt.
Paying fees and receiving your license
Driver's license fees vary by state. A standard license typically costs between $20 and $100, with some states charging more for licenses valid for longer periods. Some states charge separate fees for the written test, the driving test, and the license itself; others bundle them together.
After you pass both tests, you will pay the fee and receive your license. Some states issue it on the spot; others mail it to you within one to two weeks. Your temporary paper license is usually valid when ready while you wait for the physical card.
Your license will have an expiration date, typically four to eight years from the date of issue depending on your state. You will need to renew it before it expires to continue driving legally.
What to do if you fail a test
Failing either test is common and does not prevent you from trying again. If you fail the written test, study the areas where you struggled using your state's driver's manual and practice tests. If you fail the driving test, ask the examiner which maneuvers or behaviors caused the failure so you know what to focus on during practice.
Some states limit how many times you can retake a test within a certain period or require you to wait longer between attempts after multiple failures. Check your state's rules before scheduling another test. Each retake usually costs a fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test and driving test on the same day?
Most states require you to pass the written test first and then hold a learner's permit for a set period before taking the driving test. A few states let you take both on the same day if you pass the written test, but this is uncommon. Check your state's DMV website to confirm the rules.
What happens if I move to a different state?
You can transfer your out-of-state license to your new state without retaking the tests in most cases. You will need to visit the new state's DMV with your current license, proof of residency, and proof of identity. Some states charge a transfer fee. A few states require you to retake the written test or driving test if your previous license has been expired for a long time.
Do I need to take a driving course before I test?
Most states do not require a formal driving course, but some offer them and may reduce your insurance rates if you complete one. Drivers under 18 are sometimes required to complete a driver education course before taking the driving test. Check your state's requirements.
What if I fail the driving test multiple times?
You can retake the driving test as many times as needed in most states, though some limit retakes within a certain time period or require longer waiting periods after multiple failures. Each retake costs a fee. Focus your practice on the specific maneuvers or behaviors the examiner identified as problems.
Can I use someone else's car for the driving test?
Yes, as long as the car is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name. The examiner will inspect the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn before the test, so make sure the car you use meets these basic safety requirements.