What you need to do to get a learner's permit

A learner's permit is a document that lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. You cannot drive alone with a learner's permit — that is the key difference from a full driver's license. To get one, you will need to pass a written knowledge test at your state's DMV, bring specific documents to prove your identity and residency, pay a fee, and pass a vision screening. The exact documents, fees, and test content vary by state.

Most states let you get a learner's permit as early as age 14 or 15, though some allow it at 16. You do not need a driver's license first — the learner's permit is the first step. The whole process usually takes one visit to the DMV, though some states let you take the written test online or at a third-party testing location.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or state ID), proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number or tax ID to the DMV.
  • You will take a written knowledge test covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices; the test is usually 30 to 50 questions and you must pass with a score of 70 to 80 percent depending on your state.
  • Learner's permit fees range from about $20 to $50 depending on the state and how long the permit is valid.
  • You must pass a vision screening at the DMV; if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.
  • Some states let you take the written test online or at a third-party location before going to the DMV to pay and get your photo taken.

Documents to bring to the DMV

You need three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or tax ID. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work at most DMVs.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a certified birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a passport card, a consular report of birth abroad, or a state ID card. If you are under 18, a school ID or report card with your photo may be accepted as a secondary document in some states, but do not rely on it as your primary proof.

For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your current address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease or rental agreement, mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, insurance policy, or a letter from a government agency. A school enrollment letter or transcript with your address also works in most states. If you live with a parent or guardian, their utility bill or lease with your name on it is usually sufficient.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a tax return, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access, or bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) documentation.

The written knowledge test: what to expect

The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. Most states give you 30 to 50 multiple-choice questions. You usually have 30 to 45 minutes to complete it. The passing score is typically 70 to 80 percent, depending on your state — check your state DMV website for the exact passing score before you test.

You can study using your state's official DMV handbook, which is free and available online or in print at the DMV. Many states also offer free practice tests on their DMV website. Some third-party websites offer practice tests, but stick to your state's official materials to make sure the content matches what will be on the real test.

Common topics on the test include: speed limits and when they change, how to read traffic signs and pavement markings, right-of-way at intersections and roundabouts, parking rules, what to do at a red light or stop sign, following distance, how to handle a skid or hydroplane, and the effects of alcohol and drugs on driving. You will also see questions about seat belt use, child safety seats, and what to do if you are pulled over.

If you fail the test, you can usually retake it the same day or within a few days, depending on your state. There is usually a small fee for each retake — typically $5 to $10. Most people pass on the second or third attempt if they study the handbook between tries.

Vision screening and photo requirements

At the DMV, you will take a vision screening. You must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without correction. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you — the test is done with your correction in place. If you fail the vision screening, the DMV will not issue your permit until you see an eye doctor and bring a signed form confirming your vision is correctable to the required standard.

You will also have a photo taken for your learner's permit. Wear something you are comfortable with and avoid wearing a hat or sunglasses. The photo will be on your permit for its entire validity period, so take a moment to look presentable. Most DMVs do not allow you to retake the photo if you do not like it, so make sure you are ready before the camera clicks.

Fees and how long your permit is valid

Learner's permit fees vary by state. Most states charge between $20 and $50 for a learner's permit. Some states charge a flat fee; others charge based on how long the permit is valid. A few states include the learner's permit fee as part of a combined fee when you later upgrade to a full driver's license, so you may not pay again.

The validity period also varies. Most states issue learner's permits that are valid for 6 months to 2 years. Some states let you renew your learner's permit once or twice if you have not yet passed your driving test. Check your state DMV website for the exact fee and validity period in your state.

Payment methods at the DMV usually include cash, debit card, and credit card. Some DMVs accept checks. Call ahead or check your state's DMV website to confirm what payment methods your local office accepts.

State-by-state differences in age, fees, and test format

The minimum age for a learner's permit ranges from 14 to 16 depending on the state. Most states allow you to get a learner's permit at 15 or 16. A few states, including South Dakota and Montana, allow it at 14. Check your state DMV website to confirm the minimum age in your state.

Some states let you take the written test at a third-party location — often a local testing center, library, or approved vendor — before you go to the DMV. This can save time if your local DMV has long wait times. Other states require you to take the test at the DMV itself. A few states offer online testing for the written exam, though you still have to go to the DMV in person for your photo and vision screening.

A handful of states have different test content or passing scores for different age groups. For example, some states have a slightly harder test for drivers under 18 than for drivers 18 and older. Your state DMV website will tell you if this applies to you.

What happens after you pass and get your permit

Once you pass the written test, pass the vision screening, and pay the fee, you will receive your learner's permit. It is a physical card or document that you must carry with you every time you drive. You cannot legally drive without it in the car.

With a learner's permit, you must follow learner's permit restrictions. These vary by state but typically include: a licensed adult (usually 21 or older) must be in the front seat with you at all times, you cannot drive alone, you cannot drive between certain hours (often 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.), and you cannot use a cell phone while driving. Some states restrict the number of passengers you can have. Read the back of your permit or your state's DMV handbook to learn the exact restrictions in your state.

You will need to hold your learner's permit for a minimum period — usually 6 months to 1 year — before you can take the driving test and get your full driver's license. During this time, you should practice driving with a licensed adult to build your skills. When you are ready, you will schedule a driving test appointment at the DMV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I do not have a birth certificate?

Yes. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can bring a U.S. passport, passport card, or consular report of birth abroad instead. If you were born outside the U.S. and do not have any of these documents, contact your state DMV to ask what alternative documents they will accept.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it. Most states let you retake the test the same day or within a few days. There is usually a small fee per retake, typically $5 to $10. Study the official DMV handbook between attempts and focus on the topics you missed.

Do I need to take a driver's education course before getting a learner's permit?

Not in most states. You can get a learner's permit by passing the written test and vision screening. However, some states offer a discount on your insurance if you complete a driver's education course, and a few states require it for drivers under a certain age. Check your state DMV website to see if it is required or recommended in your state.

Can I take the written test online?

Some states offer online testing for the written exam, but not all. You will still need to go to the DMV in person for your photo and vision screening. Check your state DMV website to see if online testing is available in your state.

How long can I keep my learner's permit before I have to get a driver's license?

Most states require you to hold a learner's permit for a minimum of 6 months to 1 year before you can take the driving test. After that, you can test whenever you are ready. If your permit expires before you pass the driving test, you will need to renew it or start over. Check your state DMV website for the exact minimum holding period in your state.