What you need to do to get your first driver license

To get your first driver license, you will visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency in person, bring the documents they require, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay a fee. The exact documents, test format, and fee vary by state, but the basic path is the same everywhere: you prove who you are and where you live, show you know the rules of the road, and show you can drive safely.

Most states let you get a learner's permit first — a document that lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car — and then move to a full license after a waiting period and more practice. Some states skip the permit step for adults. Either way, you cannot legally drive alone without one of these documents.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit your DMV in person with proof of identity, proof of your address, and your Social Security number or tax ID to explore.
  • Most states require you to pass a written knowledge test about traffic laws before you can take a driving test.
  • You will take a behind-the-wheel driving test with a DMV examiner, usually after holding a learner's permit for a set number of days or weeks.
  • Fees range by state but typically run $20 to $100 for a first license, and your license will be valid for 4 to 8 years depending on your state.
  • If you are under 18, your state may have additional requirements like driver education courses or restrictions on when and with whom you can drive.

Documents you must bring to the DMV

You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of your current address, and proof of your Social Security number. Acceptable identity documents include a passport, a birth certificate, a military ID, or a state ID card. If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, ask your DMV what other documents they accept — rules vary.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. The document must show your current address and be dated within the last 60 days in most states, though some allow older documents.

For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a tax return, a W-2 form, or a 1099. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one. Some states also accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead.

Bring your learner's permit if you already have one. If you are explore for a permit first, you will not need it yet. Check your state's DMV website for the complete list — some states require additional documents like proof of residency from a parent if you are under 18, or a completed medical form if you have certain health conditions.

The written knowledge test

The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. Most states give you a multiple-choice test on a computer or on paper with 30 to 50 questions. You usually need to answer 70 to 80 percent correctly to pass. The test is based on your state's driver handbook, which the DMV provides free online and in print.

You can take the test the same day you explore, or you can study first and come back. Most people study the handbook for a few days or a week before taking the test. If you fail, you can usually retake it the same day or within a few days at no extra cost, though some states charge a small fee for retakes.

Some states offer the written test in multiple languages. If English is not your first language, ask your DMV whether a test in your language is available, or whether you can bring an interpreter.

The driving test and what examiners look for

The driving test is a 15- to 30-minute drive with a DMV examiner in your car or the DMV's car. The examiner watches how you handle basic tasks: starting the car, steering, braking, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. They are looking for safe habits, not perfect driving. Minor mistakes like hesitating at a stop sign will not fail you, but running a red light or hitting a curb will.

You must have a valid learner's permit and a licensed adult in the car with you during the test in most states. Some states let you take the test alone with the examiner if you are over 18. Bring your permit, your proof of identity, and proof that you have insurance on the car you are using.

If you fail the driving test, you can usually retake it after a waiting period of a few days to a few weeks. There is usually a fee for each retake, typically $10 to $30. Most people pass on the second or third attempt.

Learner's permit requirements and waiting periods

A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take the driving test. To get one, you pass the written test and pay a fee — usually $10 to $30. You do not take a driving test to get a permit.

Most states require you to hold a learner's permit for a set number of days or weeks before you can take the driving test. This waiting period is typically 14 to 180 days depending on your age and your state. Some states have no waiting period if you are over 18. Check your state's rules before you explore.

While you have a learner's permit, you must follow restrictions set by your state. Common restrictions include: you must have a licensed adult in the front seat, you cannot drive alone, you cannot drive between certain hours (often 10 p.m. to 5 a.m.), and you cannot use a cell phone while driving. Violating these rules can result in a fine or loss of your permit.

Fees and how long the license lasts

The cost of a learner's permit and a driver license varies by state. A permit typically costs $10 to $30, and a license typically costs $20 to $100. Some states charge one combined fee for both; others charge separate fees. A few states offer reduced fees for seniors or people with low income — ask your DMV.

A driver license is usually valid for 4 to 8 years depending on your state and your age. After it expires, you must renew it at the DMV. Renewal is usually cheaper than getting a new license and can often be done by mail or online, though you may need to retake the written test or vision test depending on your state's rules.

What to do if you are under 18

If you are under 18, your state may require you to complete a driver education course before you can get a permit or license. These courses teach traffic laws and safe driving and are offered by high schools, private driving schools, and online. They typically cost $100 to $300 and take 4 to 6 weeks to complete. Some states waive the course requirement if you have taken it in school.

Your state may also impose a graduated licensing system, which means you get a permit first, then a restricted license with limits on when and with whom you can drive, and finally an unrestricted license after you reach a certain age or hold the restricted license for a set time. These restrictions are designed to reduce crashes among young drivers. Common restrictions include no driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., no passengers under 21 unless a parent is in the car, and no cell phone use while driving.

If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign your process. Bring their ID and proof that they live with you or have legal custody.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or by mail?

Most states require you to take the written test in person at the DMV. A few states offer online testing for renewals or for people with disabilities, but first-time applicants almost always must go to the DMV. Check your state's website to confirm.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it after a waiting period, usually 1 to 7 days. There is a fee for each retake, typically $10 to $30. Most people pass within two or three attempts. Ask the examiner what you did wrong so you can practice those skills before you try again.

Do I need to have insurance before I take the driving test?

Yes. You must show proof of insurance on the vehicle you are using for the test. If you are using a family member's car, their insurance will cover you as long as you have permission to drive it. If you are using a DMV vehicle, the DMV provides insurance.

How long does it take to get a license from start to finish?

If you are over 18 and your state has no waiting period, you can get a permit and take the driving test on the same day, so you could have a license within a few hours if you pass. If you are under 18 or your state has a waiting period, it typically takes 2 to 6 months from the day you explore for a permit to the day you get your license.

What if I move to a different state?

You will need to get a license in your new state. Some states let you transfer your out-of-state license without retaking the tests if you have held it for a certain time, usually 1 to 5 years. Others require you to take both tests again. Check your new state's DMV website for their rules on transfers.