What Louisiana Requires for a Driver's License
Louisiana issues a standard driver's license valid for eight years from the date of issue. You must be at least 16 years old to hold one. The state also offers a Real ID-compliant driver's license, which meets federal requirements for air travel and entry to federal buildings — this costs more but is valid for the same eight-year period.
Louisiana distinguishes between a learner's permit (which you get first if you are under 18), a regular driver's license, and a commercial driver's license (CDL). This article covers the standard driver's license process. If you need a CDL, that involves separate testing and medical certification through the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles.
The state recognizes both in-person and online renewal for certain situations, though first-time applicants and those renewing after expiration must visit an OMV office in person.
Key Takeaways
- Louisiana driver's licenses are valid for eight years and cost $35 for a standard license or $54 for a Real ID-compliant license.
- You must provide proof of identity, Social Security number, Louisiana residency, and pass a written test and vision screening at an OMV office.
- If you are under 18, you must first obtain a learner's permit and hold it for at least one year before taking the road test for a full license.
- Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired and you have not had certain violations or address changes in the past eight years.
- Louisiana accepts out-of-state licenses for up to 30 days after you establish residency; after that, you must obtain a Louisiana license.
Documents You Need to Bring to the OMV Office
Louisiana requires specific documents in original form or certified copies. Bring one document that proves your identity — a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate. You will also need to provide your Social Security number; the OMV will verify it with the Social Security Administration.
For proof of Louisiana residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A government-issued mail piece (such as a tax notice or court document) also works. If you have recently moved, bring proof of your new address.
If you are renewing and your address has not changed, you may not need a residency document, but calling your local OMV office ahead of time will confirm what they require. Bring your current license if you have one.
The Written Test, Vision Screening, and Road Test
At your OMV appointment, you will take a written test covering Louisiana traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test has 40 questions; you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. The OMV provides a study guide online and in print at any OMV office. You may retake the test the same day if you fail, though you may be charged a retest fee.
You will also have your vision screened. Louisiana requires corrected or uncorrected vision of at least 20/40 in each eye. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them to your appointment.
If you are under 18 or explore for your first license as an adult, you must also pass a road test. A licensed examiner will observe you driving a vehicle you provide (or one supplied by the OMV in some locations) for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. The test covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe decision-making. You must pass the written test before scheduling the road test.
Learner's Permit Requirements for Drivers Under 18
If you are under 18, Louisiana requires you to obtain a learner's permit before you can take the road test. The permit is valid for one year and costs $20. You must hold it for at least one year and pass the written test to get it.
With a learner's permit, you may drive only when a licensed driver age 21 or older is in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you must follow all traffic laws. Violations while holding a permit can delay your road test may be able to access.
After holding the permit for one year, you can schedule your road test at an OMV office. Once you pass, you receive your full driver's license. If you turn 18 before the one-year mark, you can take the road test when ready.
Fees and Payment Methods
A standard Louisiana driver's license costs $35 and is valid for eight years. A Real ID-compliant license costs $54 for the same eight-year period. A learner's permit costs $20. Road test fees vary by location but typically range from $20 to $30.
The OMV accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card at most offices. Some locations may accept only certain payment methods, so contact your local office ahead of time if you have questions. Fees are non-refundable if you do not pass the written or road test on your first attempt, though you can retake the test.
If you renew online, you pay the same fee as an in-person renewal. The OMV will process your payment by credit or debit card only.
Renewing Your Louisiana Driver's License
You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. If your license is not expired and you have not had certain violations, address changes, or medical suspensions in the past eight years, you may renew online through the Louisiana OMV website. Online renewal takes about 10 business days and costs the same as in-person renewal.
If your license has expired, you must renew in person at an OMV office. You will need to retake the written test and vision screening, though you may not need to take the road test unless you are renewing after a long lapse or have had a suspension. Bring the same documents you would for a first-time process.
If you have had a suspension, revocation, or certain traffic violations, you must renew in person and may need to provide additional documentation or take a defensive driving course. Contact your local OMV office to confirm what is required in your situation.
Out-of-State License Holders and Address Changes
If you move to Louisiana from another state, you have 30 days to obtain a Louisiana driver's license. After 30 days, driving on an out-of-state license is not permitted. You do not need to retake the written test if your out-of-state license is valid and you have held it for at least one year, but you must pass the vision screening and provide Louisiana residency proof.
If you already hold a Louisiana license and move within the state, you must update your address within 30 days. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at an OMV office. Updating your address online is free and takes about 10 business days. If you update in person, there is no additional fee.
If you move out of Louisiana, your license remains valid until its expiration date, but you should obtain a license in your new state as soon as you establish residency there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Louisiana driver's license online if it has already expired?
No. Online renewal is available only if your license is currently valid. If your license has expired, you must visit an OMV office in person, retake the written test and vision screening, and bring proof of identity and residency. You may not need to take the road test unless you have had a suspension or your license expired more than a certain period ago — contact your local OMV office to confirm.
How long does it take to get a Louisiana driver's license after I pass the road test?
The OMV issues your license the same day you pass the road test. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office, and your plastic card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can drive on the temporary license when ready.
What happens if I fail the written test or road test?
You can retake the written test the same day or schedule another appointment. If you fail the road test, you must wait at least one day before retaking it. Each attempt may involve a retest fee. There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test, but you must pass both before receiving your license.
Do I need a Real ID license to fly within the United States?
Yes, as of May 2025, a standard Louisiana driver's license is not sufficient for domestic air travel. You must have a Real ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of federal ID, such as a passport. A Real ID license costs $19 more than a standard license but is valid for the same eight years.
Can I get a Louisiana driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?
Louisiana requires a Social Security number to obtain a driver's license. If you do not have one, you must explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can explore for a license. If you are not a U.S. citizen, contact your local OMV office to discuss what documents you may need instead.