The core difference: a permit lets you learn, a license lets you drive alone

A driver's permit is a document that says you have passed a written test about traffic laws and road signs, but you have not yet passed a driving test. It allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. A driver's license is a document that says you have passed both the written test and the driving test. It allows you to drive alone, carry passengers, and drive at any time of day (with some exceptions for very new drivers).

The permit is a step toward the license, not an alternative to it. You get the permit first, practice for weeks or months, then take the driving test and get the license. Once you have the license, you no longer need the permit.

Key Takeaways

  • A permit requires a supervising licensed driver in the car at all times; a license does not.
  • You must pass a written test to get a permit, and a driving test to get a license.
  • Permit holders are usually restricted from driving at night and cannot drive alone under any circumstances.
  • A license is required to legally drive without supervision and to register a vehicle in your name.
  • The waiting period between permit and license varies by state, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months.

What you can do with a permit

With a permit, you can drive a car on public roads, but only with a licensed driver sitting next to you. That supervising driver must be at least 21 years old in most states, though some states allow 18 or 19. The licensed driver is responsible for your safety and your compliance with traffic laws.

A permit holder cannot drive alone, even for a short trip to the store or to school. You cannot drive at night in most states — the cutoff is usually between 9 p.m. and midnight, depending on your state. You also cannot carry passengers other than the supervising driver in many states, though rules vary.

The permit is proof that you have studied the rules of the road and passed a test on them. It is not proof that you can drive safely. That is why the supervising driver must be present.

What you can do with a license

With a license, you can drive alone at any time of day or night. You can carry passengers. You can drive in any state and in most countries (though you may need an International Driving Permit for some countries). You can register a vehicle in your name and buy car insurance in your own name.

A license is a legal document that proves you have passed both the written test and the driving test. It is issued by your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent agency). You must carry it with you whenever you drive, and you must show it to a police officer if you are stopped.

A license does not expire when ready — most licenses are valid for 4 to 8 years, depending on your state and your age. When it expires, you must renew it, usually by passing the written test again or by renewing by mail or online.

The waiting period between permit and license

Most states require you to hold a permit for a minimum amount of time before you can take the driving test. This waiting period is typically 30 days to 6 months. Some states have no waiting period at all; others require 6 months or longer.

The purpose of the waiting period is to may support that you have had time to practice driving under supervision. States with longer waiting periods believe that more practice time leads to safer drivers.

Check your state's DMV website to find out the exact waiting period in your state. If you have held your permit for the required time and feel ready, you can schedule your driving test.

Insurance and permits vs. licenses

You cannot buy car insurance in your own name with only a permit. Insurance companies require a driver's license. However, you can be listed as a driver on a parent's or guardian's insurance policy while you have a permit, and that policy will cover you while you are driving with the supervising adult.

Once you get your license, you can buy your own insurance policy or be added to a family policy as a licensed driver. Insurance rates for new drivers are typically higher than for experienced drivers, regardless of age.

If you are involved in an accident while driving with a permit, the supervising driver's insurance will usually cover the damage. If you are involved in an accident while driving with a license, your own insurance will cover it (or your parents' insurance if you are on their policy).

Restrictions that explore to new license holders

Even after you pass the driving test and get your license, many states impose restrictions on new drivers for a period of time. These restrictions are part of what is called a graduated driver licensing (GDL) system.

Common GDL restrictions include no driving at night (usually between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.), no passengers under a certain age, and no use of cell phones while driving. These restrictions typically last 6 months to 2 years, depending on your state and your age.

The purpose of GDL restrictions is to reduce accidents among new drivers. Research shows that new drivers are at higher risk of accidents, especially at night and with passengers in the car.

How to move from permit to license

First, check your state's DMV website to confirm that you have held your permit for the required waiting period. Second, practice driving with a supervising adult until you feel confident. Third, schedule your driving test at your local DMV office.

The driving test usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. You will be asked to perform basic driving tasks such as parking, turning, stopping, and merging. The examiner will also check that you follow traffic laws and drive safely.

If you pass the driving test, you will be issued a license on the spot or within a few days. If you do not pass, you can usually schedule another test after a waiting period, which is typically 7 to 14 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive to work or school with just a permit?

No. A permit requires a licensed adult in the car at all times. You cannot drive alone to work or school. Once you have your license, you can drive alone to work or school, though you may still be subject to GDL restrictions such as no night driving if you are a new driver.

What happens if I drive alone with a permit?

Driving alone with a permit is illegal and can result in a traffic citation, fines, and suspension of your permit. The supervising driver can also be cited for allowing you to drive unsupervised. It is not worth the risk.

Do I need a permit before I can get a license?

In most states, yes. You must hold a permit for a minimum waiting period before you can take the driving test. A few states allow you to skip the permit and go straight to the driving test if you are over a certain age, but this is rare.

Can I use my permit in another state?

Most states honor permits from other states, but rules vary. If you are traveling to another state with your permit, check that state's DMV website to confirm. Some states have reciprocal agreements; others do not.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test after a waiting period, usually 7 to 14 days. Your permit remains valid while you practice and prepare for the next test. There is no limit to how many times you can take the test, though some states charge a fee for each attempt.