What you need to get a driver's permit

A driver's permit (also called a learner's permit) is a document that lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. You get it by passing a written test at your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency — there is no driving test yet. The exact requirements and fees vary by state, but every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and a Social Security number or tax ID.

Most states issue permits to people as young as 14 or 15, though some go as low as 13 for agricultural permits. You do not need a permit to take a driver's education course, but you do need one to log supervised driving hours in most states. The permit is temporary — it expires after a set period, usually one to three years depending on your state.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit your state's DMV in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to explore for a permit.
  • Every state requires you to pass a written knowledge test covering traffic laws and road signs before you receive a permit.
  • The minimum age, test content, and permit validity period all differ by state, so check your state's DMV website before you go.
  • Permit fees range from roughly $10 to $50 depending on your state and how long the permit lasts.
  • Once you have a permit, you can practice driving with a licensed adult, but restrictions on when and where you can drive vary by state.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring original or certified copies of documents — photocopies usually will not work. You need one form of government-issued photo ID (passport, state ID, or birth certificate plus school ID in some states). You also need proof that you live in the state, such as a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or school enrollment letter dated within the last 60 days. Some states accept a parent's or guardian's utility bill if you live with them.

You will also need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or be ready to provide the number from memory. If you were born outside the United States, bring your birth certificate or passport. Some states require a parent or guardian to sign the process if you are under 18, so check whether yours does before you go — if it does, bring that person with you.

Call or visit your state's DMV website before you go to confirm the exact list, because some states accept different documents than others and requirements change. Many DMV websites have a checklist you can print or read.

The written knowledge test

The test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices specific to your state. Most states give you 30 to 50 questions, and you usually need to score 70 to 80 percent to pass — your state's DMV website will tell you the exact passing score. The test is multiple choice and is given on a computer at the DMV office in most states, though some still use paper tests.

You can study using your state's official driver's manual, which is free and available on the DMV website. Many states also offer practice tests online. You get one or two attempts on test day at no extra cost; if you fail, you pay a small retest fee (usually $5 to $15) and can try again after a waiting period, often one to seven days depending on your state.

The test is given in English in most states, but many offer it in other languages — check your state's DMV website to see what languages are available at your location. Some states offer large-print or audio versions for people with vision or hearing disabilities.

Age requirements and restrictions by state

The minimum age to get a permit ranges from 13 to 16 across the United States. Most states allow permits at 14 or 15. Some states have a lower minimum age for farm work or hardship permits. Once you have a permit, most states restrict when and where you can drive — for example, no driving after 10 p.m., no driving on highways, or no driving with passengers under 20 in the car. These restrictions are called graduated licensing rules and they differ significantly by state.

You must hold a permit for a minimum period before you can take the road test for a full license. This holding period ranges from 30 days to six months depending on your state. Some states waive or shorten the holding period if you complete an approved driver's education course. Check your state's DMV website for the exact age, holding period, and driving restrictions that explore to you.

Fees and how long a permit lasts

Permit fees typically range from $10 to $50, though some states charge more. The fee usually covers the cost of the permit document and the knowledge test. If you fail the test and need to retake it, you may pay a separate retest fee of $5 to $15. Some states charge extra if you want a duplicate permit or need to renew early.

A permit is valid for one to three years depending on your state. If your permit expires before you pass the road test and get a full license, you will need to renew it — some states let you renew by mail or online, while others require you to return to the DMV in person. Check your state's rules on renewal before your permit expires so you do not lose your driving privileges or have to start over.

What happens after you get your permit

Once you have a permit, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who meets your state's requirements — usually someone at least 18 or 21 years old with a valid driver's license. You must follow all the restrictions on your permit, such as speed limits, time-of-day limits, and passenger limits. Violating these restrictions can result in a ticket or suspension of your permit.

You will need to log a certain number of supervised driving hours before you can take the road test. Most states require 40 to 100 hours of practice, with a portion at night. Some states require you to keep a log of your practice hours signed by the supervising adult. Your state's DMV website will tell you the exact number of hours and whether you need to document them.

When you are ready, you schedule a road test appointment at your DMV. The road test usually takes 20 to 40 minutes and covers basic driving skills like parking, turning, and following traffic laws. If you pass, you get a full driver's license. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting period, usually one to two weeks.

How to find your state's DMV and schedule an appointment

Visit your state's official DMV website by searching "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles." The website will have the address and hours of your nearest office, information about what documents to bring, the current fee, and the knowledge test study guide. Many state DMV websites let you schedule an appointment online, which can save you time — some offices require appointments and do not accept walk-ins.

If you cannot find your state's website or have questions, call the DMV customer service number listed on the website. Be ready to provide your location or zip code so they can direct you to the right office. Some states have multiple offices in your area, and wait times can vary significantly between locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to take a driver's education course before I get my permit?

No. You can get a permit without taking a course — you only need to pass the written knowledge test. However, many states offer a discount on your insurance or shorten the permit holding period if you complete an approved driver's education course. Check your state's DMV website and your parents' insurance company to see if a course would benefit you.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it after a waiting period, usually one to seven days depending on your state. You pay a retest fee (typically $5 to $15) and get another attempt. Most states let you retake the test multiple times, but check your state's rules to be sure. Study the official driver's manual more thoroughly before your next attempt.

Can I get a permit if I do not have a Social Security number?

Most states require a Social Security number or ITIN to get a permit. If you do not have one, contact your state's DMV to ask what alternatives they accept. Some states may require additional documentation or have a different process for people without a Social Security number.

What if my permit expires before I pass the road test?

You will need to renew it. Some states let you renew online or by mail, while others require you to return to the DMV in person. Check your state's renewal rules before your permit expires. If you let it expire without renewing, you will lose your driving privileges and may have to start the process over.

Can I drive alone with a permit?

No. A permit requires a licensed adult in the car at all times. The adult must meet your state's age and license requirements — usually at least 18 or 21 years old with a valid driver's license. Driving alone with a permit is illegal and can result in a ticket, fines, or suspension of your permit.