What you need to know about underage driver's licenses

Most states issue driver's licenses to people under 18, but the rules are stricter than for adults. You'll typically need to be at least 15 or 16 to get a learner's permit, and at least 16 or 17 to get a full license — the exact age depends on your state. Before you can get either one, you'll need to pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a vision test, and provide documents that prove your identity and residency.

The path to a full license usually has two stages: a learner's permit period where you drive only with a licensed adult in the car, and then a road test to earn your full license. During the learner's permit phase, your state may restrict when you can drive, who can be in the car with you, and whether you can use a phone. These restrictions exist in all 50 states in some form, though the details vary widely.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 or 16 to get a learner's permit and at least 16 or 17 to get a full license, depending on your state.
  • You will need to bring documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and current address when you explore at your state's DMV or equivalent office.
  • A learner's permit requires passing a written test on traffic laws and a vision test, but no road test yet.
  • Most states require you to hold a learner's permit for a set number of months or hours of supervised driving before you can take the road test for a full license.
  • Restrictions on when, where, and with whom you can drive explore during the learner's permit phase and sometimes for several months after you get your full license.

Documents you'll need to bring to the DMV

When you go to explore for a learner's permit or driver's license, bring your original birth certificate or passport, your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, and proof of your current address such as a utility bill or lease with a parent's name on it. Some states also require a parent or guardian to be present at the appointment, especially if you're under 18.

Call your state's DMV office or check their website before you go, because document requirements vary by state and sometimes by county. Some states accept a school ID as proof of address; others do not. Some require your parent to sign a form; others require your parent to be in the room. Showing up with the wrong documents means a wasted trip.

The learner's permit stage

A learner's permit lets you drive only when a licensed adult is in the front seat next to you. To get one, you'll pass a written test covering traffic signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You'll also take a vision test. There is no road test at this stage — the examiner is not watching you drive.

Most states require you to hold a learner's permit for a minimum number of months — often three to six months — before you can take the road test for a full license. Some states measure this in hours of supervised driving instead, typically 30 to 50 hours. During this time, your state may restrict you from driving at night, from carrying passengers your own age, or from using a cell phone even hands-free. Check your state's specific rules; they are printed on your permit.

Restrictions during the learner's permit phase

Graduated driver licensing (GDL) laws exist in every state and set limits on when and how you can drive while you hold a learner's permit. Common restrictions include no driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., no passengers under 21 unless a parent is in the car, and no use of a cell phone for any reason. Some states ban eating, adjusting the radio, or opening windows.

These rules are enforced by police during traffic stops. Breaking them can result in a ticket, a fine, points on your driving record, or suspension of your permit. The restrictions exist because crash rates are highest for new drivers, especially at night and with passengers. Your state's DMV website lists the exact rules for your permit.

The road test and full license

After you've held your learner's permit for the required time and logged the required hours of supervised driving, you can schedule a road test. An examiner will ride with you while you drive on public roads. They'll watch how you handle turns, stops, parking, and traffic situations. If you pass, you get a full driver's license.

Even with a full license, most states keep some restrictions in place for drivers under 18 for several more months. You might still be banned from driving at night or carrying teenage passengers without an adult present. These restrictions gradually lift as you get older or after a certain amount of time has passed. Your license will show when your restrictions end.

What happens if you fail the road test

If you don't pass the road test, you keep your learner's permit and can schedule another test after a waiting period — usually a few days to a week. You don't lose the hours you've already logged. Most people pass on their second or third attempt. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though you'll pay the test fee each time.

After you fail, ask the examiner what you need to work on. Common reasons for failing include not checking mirrors, not coming to a complete stop, hitting a curb during parking, or not yielding correctly. Get more supervised driving practice on those specific skills before you schedule your next test.

Costs and fees

The cost of a learner's permit and driver's license varies by state. A learner's permit typically costs between $10 and $50, and a driver's license typically costs between $20 and $100. Some states charge one fee for both; others charge separately. A road test usually costs $10 to $30 extra. Check your state's DMV website for the exact amount and whether you can pay online or only in person.

Some states offer discounts if you complete a driver education course, which can also lower your insurance rates later. The course usually costs $100 to $300 and takes a few weeks. It's optional in most states, but it may be required if you're under a certain age or if you want to get your license earlier than the standard age.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get my license before the minimum age if I take a driver education course?

Some states allow you to get a learner's permit or license up to six months early if you complete an approved driver education course. Other states do not offer this option. Check your state's DMV website or call to ask whether early licensing is possible where you live.

What if I move to a different state after I get my learner's permit?

Your permit is valid only in the state that issued it. If you move, you'll need to get a new permit from your new state. You don't have to start over completely — most states will credit the time you spent on your first permit toward the waiting period in your new state, but you'll need to pass their written test and follow their rules.

Can I drive alone if I have a learner's permit?

No. A learner's permit requires a licensed adult to be in the front seat with you at all times. The adult must be at least 21 in most states, though some states allow a parent or guardian of any age. Driving alone on a learner's permit is illegal and can result in a ticket and suspension of your permit.

What counts as supervised driving hours?

Supervised driving means you're behind the wheel with a licensed adult in the front seat. Driving to school, to work, to the store, or on the highway all count. Sitting in the passenger seat while someone else drives does not count. Some states require a certain number of hours to be at night or in bad weather. Check your state's rules.

Do I need car insurance to get a learner's permit?

You don't need insurance to get the permit itself, but you'll need it before you drive. The car you're driving must be insured, and the insurance must cover you as a driver. Talk to your parent's insurance company before you start driving — they may charge more for a new teenage driver, or they may offer discounts for completing a driver education course.