What you need to get a Wyoming driver's license

Wyoming issues driver's licenses through the Department of Transportation, and you'll explore in person at one of their offices across the state. You cannot renew or obtain a license by mail or online. To get your first Wyoming license or transfer one from another state, bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card or a tax return), and proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process.

You'll also need to pass a written knowledge test covering traffic laws and road signs, a vision screening, and a driving skills test. The written test has 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly. You can take the test in English or Spanish. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another time at no additional cost.

Key Takeaways

  • Wyoming driver's licenses are issued only in person at Department of Transportation offices; you cannot explore by mail or online.
  • You need proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency dated within 60 days to explore.
  • All applicants must pass a written test (50 questions, 40 correct to pass), a vision screening, and a driving skills test.
  • Standard Wyoming licenses are valid for eight years; you must renew in person and cannot renew by mail.
  • Minors under 18 need a parent or guardian signature, and those under 16 face restrictions on when and where they can drive.

License types and restrictions for drivers under 18

Wyoming issues a Class D license to most drivers. If you're under 16, you receive an instruction permit first, which allows you to drive only with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat. You must hold the instruction permit for at least 14 days before taking the driving test.

Once you pass the driving test and turn 16, you get a restricted license valid until age 17. This license restricts you from driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you're driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. At age 17, you can explore for an unrestricted Class D license. Drivers aged 16 and 17 also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in emergencies.

Renewing your Wyoming driver's license

Wyoming driver's licenses expire eight years after issue. You must renew in person at a Department of Transportation office; renewal by mail is not available. You can renew up to one year before your license expires. Bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days), and proof of any name changes if applicable.

When you renew, you will not retake the written test unless your license has been expired for more than two years. You will have your vision screened again. If you're over 65, you must renew every four years instead of eight, and you may be asked to provide a medical certification from your doctor. The renewal fee is the same as the initial license fee.

Fees and what to bring to the office

A standard eight-year Class D license costs $40. An instruction permit costs $20. A four-year license for drivers 65 and older costs $20. These fees are paid when you explore or renew. Wyoming does not accept payment by phone or online; you pay in person at the office.

Bring original documents or certified copies—photocopies are not accepted. If your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation along with the original. If you've changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document proving the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). If you're explore for a duplicate license because yours was lost or stolen, report it to local law enforcement first and bring the police report number.

Where to find a Department of Transportation office

Wyoming has Department of Transportation driver services offices in Cheyenne, Casper, Gillette, Jackson, Laramie, and Sheridan. Hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday during business hours. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require appointments. The Department of Transportation website lists all office locations, hours, and whether appointments are needed at your nearest office.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices in smaller towns like Jackson and Sheridan typically have shorter waits than the Cheyenne office. If you're renewing and don't need a new photo, some offices can process your renewal faster. Call ahead to ask about current wait times before you go.

What happens if you fail the driving test

If you fail the driving skills test, you can retake it after waiting at least one day. There is no additional fee to retake the test. You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening unless your vision has changed. You can schedule your next driving test appointment at the office when you fail, or you can call to schedule it later.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready the same day at no cost, or you can leave and return another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test. However, if you fail the written test three times, you must wait one week before taking it again.

Transferring a license from another state

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and move to Wyoming, you can transfer it without retaking the written test. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Wyoming residency. You will still need to pass the vision screening and the driving skills test. Your new Wyoming license will expire eight years from the date you receive it.

If your out-of-state license is expired, you must retake the written test along with the vision and driving tests. If you're moving to Wyoming and your license will expire within 30 days, you should renew it in your home state before moving, or plan to take the full test battery in Wyoming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Wyoming license online or by mail?

No. Wyoming requires all license renewals to be done in person at a Department of Transportation office. You cannot renew by mail, phone, or online. You must visit an office with your current license and proof of residency.

What if I lose my license or it gets stolen?

Report the loss or theft to local law enforcement and get a report number. Bring the police report number to a Department of Transportation office along with your proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. You can get a duplicate license the same day. The fee is the same as a regular license.

Do I need a medical exam to renew my license in Wyoming?

Drivers 65 and older must renew every four years instead of eight and may be asked to provide a medical certification from their doctor. Younger drivers do not need a medical exam unless the Department of Transportation has reason to question your ability to drive safely.

What is the difference between an instruction permit and a restricted license?

An instruction permit is for drivers under 16 and requires a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat. A restricted license is for drivers 16 and 17 and allows solo driving but restricts driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless driving to work, school, or a medical appointment.

How long does it take to get a Wyoming driver's license after I explore?

You receive your license the same day you pass all tests and pay the fee. The Department of Transportation issues licenses on-site at their offices. There is no waiting period after you pass your driving test.