The DMV is your main option, but some states let you use third-party offices

You get your permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), or from an authorized third-party office if your state allows them. Most states require you to explore in person at a DMV office, though a few states now accept online applications for the written test portion. The location you choose depends on where you live and whether your state contracts with private vendors to handle permit testing.

Not all DMV offices offer the same services. Some handle only renewals, while others process new permits and licenses. Before you go, check your state's DMV website to find an office near you that handles new permit applications — this detail matters because a renewal-only office will turn you away.

Third-party offices exist in about half of U.S. states. These are usually private businesses — insurance agencies, driving schools, or dedicated testing centers — that the DMV has authorized to administer the written test and issue permits. They charge a fee on top of the state permit fee, typically $10 to $30 extra, but they often have shorter wait times and more flexible hours than DMV offices.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's DMV website lists all office locations and their hours; filter for offices that handle new permit applications, not just renewals.
  • Third-party vendors in roughly half the states can issue permits and administer the written test, usually faster than the DMV but with an additional fee.
  • You must explore in person in most states, though some allow you to take the written test online after submitting your process at an office.
  • Bring all required documents on your first visit — going back a second time because you forgot something adds weeks to the process.
  • Hours and wait times vary widely by location; calling ahead or checking online appointment availability before you go saves time.

Finding a DMV office that handles new permits

Start at your state's official DMV website. Look for a "locations" or "office finder" tool. Enter your city or zip code, and the results should show you nearby offices. Read the description carefully: some offices say "license renewal only" or "ID services only." You need an office marked for "new driver's license" or "new permit" applications.

Once you have identified an office, check its hours. Many DMV offices are open Monday through Friday only, with limited evening or Saturday hours. Some states let you book an appointment online; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. If your state offers appointments, book one. If not, go early in the morning — DMV offices are typically least crowded before 10 a.m.

Call the office directly if the website is unclear about whether they handle new permits. The phone number is usually on the office listing. A five-minute call prevents a wasted trip.

Using a third-party vendor instead of the DMV

If your state allows third-party permit issuance, you can often skip the DMV office entirely. Common third-party vendors include AAA (in states where it partners with the DMV), local driving schools, and dedicated testing centers. Search "[your state] third-party permit testing" to find vendors near you.

Third-party offices typically have longer hours than the DMV — many stay open evenings and weekends — and shorter wait times. The trade-off is a higher fee. For example, if your state charges $25 for a permit, a third-party vendor might charge $25 plus a $20 service fee. Check the vendor's website or call to confirm the total cost before you go.

Not all third-party vendors handle the full permit process. Some administer only the written test; you may still need to visit the DMV to submit your process and pay the state fee. Ask the vendor what steps they handle and what you need to do at the DMV afterward.

What documents to bring on your first visit

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies usually do not work. You will need proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address), and your Social Security number. Some states also require a completed process form, which you can read from the DMV website before you go or fill out at the office.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian. Some states require a parent to sign the process; others require a parent to be present. Check your state's rules on the DMV website under "minor permit requirements."

Bring proof of your legal name if it differs from your birth certificate — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you have changed your name and do not have proof, the DMV will not issue a permit until you do.

Online permit applications and testing in select states

A small number of states now let you complete part of the permit process online. You typically submit your process and personal information through the DMV website, then schedule an in-person appointment to take the written test and have your photo taken. This reduces time at the office but does not eliminate the visit.

Check your state's DMV website for "online permit process" or "digital permit services." If your state offers this, you can start the process from home and bring fewer documents to your appointment — the DMV already has your information on file.

Even in states with online options, you cannot get a permit without visiting an office at least once. The in-person visit is required for the written test, the photo, and to verify your identity and documents.

Wait times and appointment availability

Wait times at DMV offices vary from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the location and time of day. Urban offices are usually busier than rural ones. If your state allows online appointment booking, use it — you will know your exact appointment time and avoid waiting in line.

If appointments are not available online, call the office to ask about current wait times. Some offices publish wait times on their website in real time. If the wait is longer than you want to spend, try a different office in your area or go on a different day of the week. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often less busy than Mondays and Fridays.

If you use a third-party vendor, call ahead to ask about wait times there too. Some vendors are busier than others, and a vendor with longer hours might still have a shorter wait than the DMV.

What happens after you submit your process

After you submit your process and documents at the DMV or third-party office, you will take the written test on the same day. If you pass, you will receive your permit when ready — usually a paper temporary permit that is valid while your plastic card is being printed. The plastic permit card arrives by mail within one to three weeks.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at most offices, though some require you to wait a few days. Check your state's rules on retesting before you go.

Keep your temporary paper permit with you while you drive. It is valid for the same period as the plastic card — usually 180 days to one year, depending on your state and age.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a permit at any DMV office or only at specific ones?

Only offices that handle new permit applications can issue one. Many DMV offices handle renewals only. Check your state's office finder tool and look for the words "new driver's license" or "new permit" in the office description. Call if you are unsure.

Do I have to go to the DMV if my state has third-party vendors?

Not necessarily. If a third-party vendor handles the full permit process in your state, you can go there instead. However, some vendors only administer the test; you still need to visit the DMV to submit your process. Ask the vendor what they handle before you go.

What if I do not have all my documents on my first visit?

You will not be able to complete your process. The DMV will not issue a permit without proof of identity, residency, and legal name. Go home, gather the missing documents, and return. This adds weeks to the process, so bring everything the first time.

Can I take the written test online instead of in person?

In most states, no. A few states allow you to submit your process online, but you must visit an office to take the written test and have your photo taken. Check your state's DMV website for online options.

How long does it take to get my plastic permit card after I pass the test?

You receive a temporary paper permit when ready after you pass. The plastic card arrives by mail in one to three weeks. The exact timeline depends on your state's processing speed and mail delivery time.