Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles is the only place that issues driver's licenses
You get your driver's license from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), or whatever your state calls it. Some states use different names — the Department of Licensing, the Secretary of State's office, the Registry of Motor Vehicles — but they all do the same job. You cannot get a real driver's license from a private company, a third party, or anywhere else. The DMV is the sole issuer.
Most states now let you handle some of the paperwork online or by mail, but you will still need to visit a DMV office in person at least once to pass the written test, the vision test, and the driving test. Some states let you take the written test at a third-party location like a driving school, but the DMV itself must administer your road test and issue your license.
The DMV office you visit must be in the state where you plan to hold your license. You cannot get a California license from a Nevada DMV office, even if you live closer to Nevada. You must go to the state where you intend to be a resident.
Key Takeaways
- Your state's DMV is the only government body that can issue a real driver's license, regardless of what your state calls the agency.
- You must visit a DMV office in person to take the vision test, written test, and road test, even if you complete some paperwork online first.
- The DMV office must be located in the state where you are establishing residency — you cannot get a license from a different state's DMV.
- Most states require you to bring specific documents like a birth certificate, proof of residency, and Social Security number before your visit.
- Wait times and hours vary widely by location, so check your local DMV's website or call ahead before you go.
Finding your state's DMV office and hours
Start by searching "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles" online. This will take you to your state's official DMV website, where you can find office locations, hours, and phone numbers. Most states let you search by city or zip code to find the office nearest you.
Call or visit the website before you go. DMV offices often have different hours on different days, and many close for lunch or have limited hours on certain weekdays. Some states now let you book an appointment online, which can cut your wait time from hours to minutes. If your state offers appointments, use them — walk-in lines can be very long.
If you cannot find your state's DMV website, go to your state's main government website (usually [statename].gov) and look for a link to motor vehicles or licensing. You can also call your state's main information line and ask for the DMV phone number.
What documents you need to bring
Every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The exact documents vary by state, but common ones include a birth certificate, passport, utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement. Some states accept a combination of documents; others require specific ones.
Check your state's DMV website for the exact list before you go. Most states publish a checklist of acceptable documents for first-time applicants. Bringing the wrong documents will waste your trip — the DMV will not issue a license without the right paperwork, and you will have to return another day.
If you are renewing a license or replacing a lost one, the documents you need may be different. The DMV website will have a separate checklist for each type of transaction.
The written test, vision test, and road test
The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You take it at the DMV office (or at a third-party location in some states). The test is usually multiple choice, and you must pass it before you can schedule a road test. Most states let you retake the written test the same day if you fail, though some require you to wait a few days.
The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. The DMV will test your eyesight at the office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to wear corrective lenses while driving, or you may need to see an eye doctor and bring a report back to the DMV.
The road test is the driving test. A DMV examiner will ride with you in your car (or a car you provide) and watch you drive. You will be tested on basic skills like starting, stopping, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You must pass the road test to get your license. Most states let you retake it if you fail, usually after waiting a few days or a week.
How long the process takes from start to finish
The timeline depends on how quickly you pass each test and how busy your local DMV is. If you pass the written test on your first try, you can usually schedule a road test within a few days to a few weeks. Once you pass the road test, the DMV will issue your license the same day or mail it to you within a week or two.
If you fail a test, you will lose time retaking it. If your DMV is very busy, you may wait several weeks for an appointment. Some states have longer backlogs than others, and wait times can change with the season.
Plan for at least two to four weeks from your first visit to having a license in hand, longer if you fail a test or if your DMV has a long backlog. Check your state's DMV website for current wait times before you schedule your appointment.
Getting a temporary license while you wait
Many states issue a temporary paper license or a temporary digital license on your phone after you pass the road test. This temporary license lets you drive legally while you wait for your permanent card to arrive in the mail. The temporary license is usually valid for 30 to 90 days.
Ask the DMV examiner or the person at the counter whether you will get a temporary license and how long it is valid. If you do not get one, ask whether you can drive home after passing the road test or whether you need to wait for the permanent license to arrive.
Renewing or replacing a license you already have
If you already have a driver's license and need to renew it, the process is usually faster and simpler than getting one for the first time. Many states let you renew by mail or online without visiting the DMV office. You will not need to retake the written or road tests unless your state requires it (some states require a new road test every few years).
If you lost your license or it was stolen, you can get a replacement at the DMV. You will need to show proof of identity and residency, but you will not need to retake the tests. The replacement usually costs less than a new license and arrives faster.
Check your state's DMV website to see whether you can renew or replace your license online, by mail, or only in person. Some states offer all three options; others require an office visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test at a driving school instead of the DMV?
Some states allow third-party testing locations like driving schools to administer the written test, but you must still go to the DMV for the vision test and road test. Check your state's DMV website to see whether third-party testing is available in your area. Even if it is, you will need to visit the DMV at least once.
What if I fail the road test?
You can retake the road test after a waiting period, usually a few days to a week. The DMV will tell you when you can schedule your next test. You do not need to retake the written test unless your state requires it. Most people pass on the second or third try.
Do I need to bring my own car for the road test?
Most states require you to bring your own car. The car must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. Some DMV offices have test cars you can use, but this is rare. Check your state's DMV website to see whether test cars are available at your local office.
How much does a driver's license cost?
The cost varies by state and ranges from about $20 to $100 for a first-time license. Renewals usually cost less. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee. Most DMV offices accept cash, check, and card, but some accept only certain payment methods.
Can I get a license if I do not have a Social Security number?
Most states require a Social Security number to get a driver's license. If you do not have one, contact your state's DMV to ask about alternatives. Some states may allow an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or other documents instead. Call your local DMV office to find out what your state accepts.