You get your driver's permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles
Your state's DMV (or equivalent agency—some states call it the Department of Transportation or Secretary of State) is the only place that issues driver's permits. You cannot get one online, by mail, or through a third party. You have to go in person to a DMV office, bring the required documents, pass a written test, and pay a fee.
The exact name of the agency and the documents you need vary by state, but the process is the same everywhere: you walk in, show proof of identity and residency, take the written knowledge test, and leave with a permit (or a notice to return if you did not pass). Most people complete this in one visit, though some offices are busier than others.
Your permit is not a full driver's license. It lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car, but you cannot drive alone. After you have practiced and feel ready, you will return to the DMV to take the road test and get your full license.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit your state's DMV office in person; there is no online or mail option for getting a permit.
- Bring proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport), proof of residency (like a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or tax ID.
- You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs; most states let you study a free manual online before you go.
- The fee for a permit ranges from about $10 to $50 depending on your state and how long the permit lasts.
- After you pass the written test, you leave with your permit the same day in most cases.
Finding your state's DMV office and hours
Search online for "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] driver's license office" to find the official website. The website lists all office locations, hours, and whether you need an appointment. Some states require you to book a time slot online; others let you walk in. Check before you go, because showing up without an appointment at a walk-in-only office can mean a long wait, and showing up without an appointment at an appointment-only office means you will be turned away.
Many states now let you check wait times online or reserve a time slot through their website. If your state offers this, use it. You will spend less time sitting in the office and more time getting your permit.
If you cannot find your state's DMV website or you are unsure which office is closest to you, call 411 or search your city or county government website. County assessor offices and public libraries often have DMV contact information posted.
Documents you need to bring
Every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The exact documents vary, but here is what most states accept:
| Proof of Identity | Proof of Residency | Other Documents |
|---|---|---|
| Birth certificate (original or certified copy), passport, or state ID | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address | Social Security card or tax return; some states also ask for a parent or guardian's ID if you are under 18 |
Bring the originals, not photocopies, unless the DMV website says otherwise. If your name on your identity document does not match your current name (for example, if you changed your name after marriage or legally), bring both documents and a certified copy of the name-change document.
If you do not have a Social Security number, ask your DMV office what you can use instead. Some states accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or will issue a permit without one if you sign a form stating you do not have one.
The written knowledge test
The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. Most states give you 30 to 50 questions, and you usually need to answer 70 to 80 percent correctly to pass. You take the test on a computer at the DMV office, and you get your score before you leave.
Every state publishes a free driver's manual online that covers everything on the test. read it from your state's DMV website and study it before your appointment. The manual is usually 50 to 100 pages, and most people can read it in a few hours. Some states also offer practice tests online so you can see what the real test looks like.
If you do not pass the first time, you can retake the test. Most states let you try again the same day or within a few days, though you may have to pay the test fee again. Ask the DMV staff what the retake policy is in your state.
The permit fee and how long it lasts
Permit fees range from about $10 to $50, depending on your state and how long the permit is valid. Most permits last between one and five years. Some states charge more for a longer permit; others charge a flat fee no matter the length.
The DMV office will tell you the fee when you arrive, and you can pay by cash, debit card, or credit card. Ask whether your state offers a discount for teens or low-income drivers; some do, though you may need to bring proof of income.
Your permit will have an expiration date printed on it. You must pass your road test and get your full license before that date, or you will have to start over and get a new permit. Most states give you plenty of time—usually at least a year—so this is not usually a problem, but mark the date on your calendar.
What happens after you pass the written test
If you pass, the DMV will take your photo and print your permit on the spot. You will leave with a physical card that day. Your permit will have your name, date of birth, address, photo, and signature on it, plus an expiration date.
Start practicing with a licensed adult right away. Most states require you to log a certain number of supervised driving hours before you can take the road test—often 50 to 100 hours, depending on your age and state. Keep a log of your practice sessions so you can show it to the examiner if your state asks for one.
Once you feel ready and have met your state's practice requirements, you can schedule your road test at the same DMV office. The road test usually happens a few weeks after you book it, depending on how busy the office is.
If you do not pass the written test
If you do not pass on your first try, you can retake it. Most states let you retake the test within a few days, though some make you wait a week. You will have to pay the test fee again unless your state waives it for retakes.
Before you retake the test, spend more time studying the driver's manual. Focus on the topics you found hardest. Some DMV offices offer in-person study sessions or let you use a computer at the office to review before your retake. Ask the staff what resources are available.
If you fail multiple times, consider taking a driver's education course. Many high schools and private driving schools offer these courses, and they cover everything on the written test in a classroom setting. Some states give you a discount on your permit fee or let you skip the written test if you complete an approved course.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a permit if I am under 16?
It depends on your state. Most states let you get a permit at 14 or 15, but a few require you to be 16. Check your state's DMV website to find the minimum age. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian to sign a form or come with you to the DMV office.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can use a passport, state ID, or other government-issued photo ID instead. If you do not have any of these, contact your state's vital records office to order a birth certificate. This can take a few weeks, so plan ahead. Some DMV offices will accept a temporary document while you wait for the original.
Do I have to take the written test in English?
Most states offer the written test in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, and others. Check your state's DMV website to see which languages are available at your local office. You may need to request a translated test when you book your appointment.
How much does a permit cost?
Fees vary by state, ranging from about $10 to $50. Some states charge based on how long the permit lasts. Your state's DMV website will show the exact fee. Many states offer discounts for teens or low-income applicants if you bring proof of income or enrollment in school.
Can someone else pick up my permit for me?
No. You must be present at the DMV office to take the written test and have your photo taken. The permit is issued to you on the spot after you pass, so you cannot have someone else collect it.