The Missouri Department of Revenue Issues All Driver's Licenses
You get your Missouri driver's license from the Missouri Department of Revenue, Driver Examination and Licensing Bureau. This is the only state agency that issues licenses. You cannot get one from a county clerk, a police department, or a private testing center — you must go through the Department of Revenue.
The Department of Revenue operates a network of Driver License offices across the state. Each office handles written tests, road tests, and license issuance. Some offices are busier than others, and wait times vary by location and time of day. You can visit any Missouri Driver License office regardless of where you live, though most people go to the one nearest their home or workplace.
You cannot complete the entire process online. You must appear in person to take your written test, pass your road test, and pick up your physical license. However, you can prepare for the written test online and check office hours and wait times on the Department of Revenue website before you go.
Key Takeaways
- All Missouri driver's licenses are issued by the Department of Revenue, Driver Examination and Licensing Bureau, which operates offices throughout the state.
- You must visit a Driver License office in person to take your written test, road test, and receive your physical license — no part of this can be done entirely online.
- You can visit any Missouri Driver License office, not just the one in your county, and you can check wait times on the Department of Revenue website before you go.
- Bring your original documents (birth certificate, proof of residency, Social Security card, and any required medical forms) to avoid delays or rejection at the office.
Finding the Driver License Office Nearest You
The Department of Revenue lists all Driver License offices on its official website, organized by region. You can search by city or county to find the office closest to you. The website shows the street address, phone number, and hours of operation for each location.
Office hours vary. Most are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, but some have extended evening hours or Saturday appointments. A few offices are open only by appointment, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the specific office's hours before you plan your visit — calling ahead can also tell you the current wait time.
If you live in a rural area far from any office, you may have a longer drive. The Department of Revenue does not operate mobile testing units or satellite offices in all counties, so some Missourians travel 30 minutes or more to reach the nearest location. Plan your trip accordingly and bring all required documents so you do not have to make a second trip.
What Documents to Bring to the Driver License Office
You must bring original documents — not copies — to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The Department of Revenue requires specific documents for each category. Bringing the wrong documents will delay your visit or result in rejection, so verify what you need before you go.
For proof of identity, bring your birth certificate (original or certified copy) or a valid passport. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current address. You must also bring your Social Security card or a document showing your full Social Security number, such as a W-2 form or tax return.
If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must be present. If you have a medical condition that affects your driving, bring any required medical forms completed by your doctor — the Department of Revenue will tell you which forms you need when you call or visit the website. If you are renewing a license, bring your current license or a valid ID.
How to Prepare Before Your Visit
Study the Missouri Driver's Manual before you take your written test. The manual covers traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and the rules of the road in Missouri. You can read it free from the Department of Revenue website or pick up a printed copy at any Driver License office. The written test draws directly from this manual, so reading it thoroughly increases your chances of passing on your first attempt.
Take practice tests online through the Department of Revenue website or through third-party study sites. These practice tests mimic the format and difficulty of the real written test and help you identify weak areas. You can retake practice tests as many times as you want at no cost.
If you are preparing for your road test, practice driving with a licensed adult in the passenger seat. Missouri requires you to demonstrate basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe decision-making. Practice in different conditions — daytime and low-light driving, residential streets and busier roads, and parking maneuvers. The more you practice before your test, the more confident you will be.
What Happens During Your Visit to the Driver License Office
When you arrive, check in at the front desk and tell staff whether you are taking your written test, road test, or both. Staff will verify your documents and may ask you questions about your address or identity. If your documents are incomplete or incorrect, they will tell you what you need to bring back.
If you are taking the written test, you will be directed to a testing station. The test is administered on a computer and covers Missouri traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You have a set amount of time to complete it — usually 30 minutes to an hour. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or return another day; the fee is the same either way.
If you are taking the road test, an examiner will meet you in the parking lot. You will drive a set route through local streets while the examiner watches and scores your performance. The test usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes. The examiner will evaluate your ability to control the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. You will receive your score when ready after the test ends.
Fees and Payment Methods at Missouri Driver License Offices
The Department of Revenue charges separate fees for the written test, road test, and license issuance. Fees vary depending on your age and the type of license you are getting. You can find the current fee schedule on the Department of Revenue website or by calling your local office.
Most Driver License offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may accept checks, but this varies by location. Call ahead if you want to confirm which payment methods your office accepts. If you fail a test and need to retake it, you will pay the test fee again.
If you pass both your written and road tests on the same day, you will pay for both tests and your license fee at the same visit. Your physical license will be printed on-site or mailed to you within a few days, depending on the office. Ask staff which method applies to your location before you leave.
What to Do If You Cannot Visit an Office in Person
If you have a medical condition or disability that prevents you from visiting an office or taking a standard road test, contact the Department of Revenue to discuss accommodations. The Department of Revenue can arrange alternative testing methods or waive certain requirements for people with documented disabilities. Call your local Driver License office or the Department of Revenue main line to explain your situation and ask what options are available.
If you are a Missouri resident temporarily living out of state, you may be able to transfer a license from another state or renew your Missouri license by mail in some cases. Contact the Department of Revenue to learn whether your situation qualifies for remote processing.
If you cannot take time off work during office hours, some Driver License offices offer evening or Saturday appointments. Check the hours for your local office, and call ahead to reserve a time slot if appointments are required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my written test and road test on the same day?
Yes. Most people take their written test first, and if they pass, they can take their road test the same day. However, some offices may have limited road test slots, so you might have to schedule your road test for another day. Ask the staff when you arrive.
What if I fail my written test or road test?
You can retake the test you failed. You pay the test fee again and can usually retake it the same day or schedule it for another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake a test, though you must pass before you can move forward in the licensing process.
How long does it take to get my physical license after I pass both tests?
Some offices print your license on-site and give it to you before you leave. Others mail it to your address within a few business days. Ask the staff which method your office uses so you know when to expect your license.
Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?
This depends on your local office. Some operate first-come, first-served, while others require appointments. Check the Department of Revenue website or call your office to find out. If appointments are required and you walk in without one, you may be turned away.
Can someone else pick up my license for me if I cannot return to the office?
This varies by office. Some will mail your license to you automatically, while others require you to pick it up in person. Ask the staff before you leave the office, or call ahead if you are unsure.