What you need to do to get a DC driver's license

To get a DC driver's license, you visit the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in person, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay a fee. The whole process takes multiple visits unless you pass both tests on your first try. You'll need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and proof that you're allowed to work in the US (if you're not a citizen). The written test covers DC traffic laws and road signs. The driving test happens on a closed course or public roads with a DMV examiner.

DC offers two types of licenses: a standard license valid for eight years, and a REAL ID-compliant license also valid for eight years. The REAL ID version costs more but is required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings after May 7, 2025. Most people get the REAL ID version now to avoid having to return to the DMV later.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit the DMV in person at least twice: once to take the written test and once to take the driving test, unless you pass both on the same day.
  • Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a current passport or passport card, and proof you live in DC such as a utility bill or lease.
  • The written test costs $10 and the driving test costs $15; a standard license costs $37 and a REAL ID license costs $47.
  • You must be at least 16 years old to get a learner's permit and at least 18 to get an unrestricted license without parental consent.
  • If you have a suspended or revoked license from another state, DC will not issue you a license until that suspension or revocation is lifted.

Documents you must bring to the DMV

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. If you were born outside the US, bring your passport, passport card, or travel document. You also need a current photo ID — a passport, passport card, military ID, or ID from another state all work. If you don't have a photo ID yet, bring two documents that prove your identity, such as a Social Security card and a school ID.

Bring proof that you live in DC. The DMV accepts a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail with your name and DC address is usually enough. If you're homeless or living with someone else, ask the DMV what documents they'll accept — they have options for people without a fixed address.

Bring your Social Security number. You don't need to bring the card itself, but you must know the number. If you're not a US citizen, bring proof that you're allowed to work in the US, such as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), a visa, or a green card. Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 25 questions about DC traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You need to answer at least 20 questions correctly to pass. The test covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, parking rules, and what to do at traffic lights and stop signs. You can take the test in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Amharic, or Chinese. If you need the test in another language or need an interpreter, call the DMV ahead of time to arrange it.

You can study using the DC Driver's Manual, which the DMV provides free online and in print at the DMV office. The manual is the source for every question on the test. Most people study it for a few hours and pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day — there's no waiting period between attempts.

The driving test and how it works

The driving test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. An examiner sits in the car with you and watches you drive. You'll be tested on basic skills: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. The examiner will ask you to do things like parallel park, make a three-point turn, or drive on a residential street and then a busier street. You must follow all traffic laws during the test — speeding, running a red light, or hitting the curb will result in failure.

You must bring the car you'll be tested in to your appointment. The car must have valid registration, a current inspection sticker, working brakes and lights, and working windshield wipers. You must have a valid learner's permit or a valid license from another state to take the driving test. If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must be present.

Fees and how long it takes

The written test costs $10. The driving test costs $15. A standard eight-year license costs $37. A REAL ID-compliant eight-year license costs $47. If you're 65 or older, the license costs $10 and is valid for five years instead of eight. You pay each fee when you take each test or receive your license.

The whole process usually takes two to four weeks from your first visit to getting your license in the mail. The written test appointment is usually available within a few days. After you pass the written test, you can schedule a driving test appointment, which may be two to four weeks away depending on how busy the DMV is. Once you pass the driving test, your license is mailed to your address within one to two weeks.

If you have a suspended or revoked license from another state

DC will not issue you a license if you have an active suspension or revocation in another state. You must contact the DMV in that state and resolve the suspension or revocation first. This might mean paying a fine, completing a driver improvement course, or waiting out a suspension period. Once that state lifts the suspension or revocation, you can come to DC and get a DC license.

If you're not sure whether you have a suspension or revocation, call the DMV in the state where you last had a license. They can tell you whether your record is clear. Bring proof that the suspension or revocation has been lifted when you go to the DC DMV.

Getting a learner's permit first

You can get a learner's permit at age 16. A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. You take the same written test to get a permit as you do to get a license. The permit is valid for one year and costs $10. You don't need to take a driving test to get a permit.

With a learner's permit, you can drive during daylight hours and must have a licensed driver at least 21 years old in the front seat with you. You cannot drive on highways. Many people get a permit first, practice for a few months, and then take the driving test. This is optional — you can go straight to the license if you already know how to drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a DC license if I don't have a birth certificate?

You need an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, or an equivalent document like a passport or passport card. If you don't have a birth certificate, contact the vital records office in the state or country where you were born and order a certified copy. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs $10 to $30.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test as many times as you need. There's no waiting period. Each attempt costs $15. Most people pass on the second or third try. You keep your learner's permit while you practice and retake the test.

Do I need to take the written test again if I already have a license from another state?

Yes, you must take the DC written test even if you have a valid license from another state. You don't need to take the driving test if your out-of-state license is current and you've held it for at least one year. Bring your out-of-state license to the DMV.

How do I schedule an appointment at the DMV?

Visit the DC DMV website or call 311 to schedule an appointment. You can also walk in without an appointment, but wait times are usually longer. Appointments are available most days of the week at the DMV office on 301 C Street NW in downtown DC.

Can I renew my DC license online or by mail?

You can renew online if your license is not expired and you haven't had any address changes. Visit the DC DMV website to renew. If your license is expired or you need to update your address, you must visit the DMV in person.