What you need to get a learner's permit in Guam
To get a learner's permit from the Guam Department of Revenue and Taxation (DRT), you must be at least 16 years old, pass a written knowledge test, and provide proof of identity and residency. You do not need to own a car or have a sponsor — the permit itself is what you get after passing the test and paying the fee.
The written test covers Guam traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It is given at the DRT office in Hagatna. You can take it the same day you explore, or you can study first and return when you feel ready. There is no waiting period between explore and testing.
The fee for a learner's permit in Guam is set by the DRT and varies depending on the permit type and validity period. Contact the DRT directly or visit their office to confirm the current fee, as it may change.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 16 years old and pass a written knowledge test to receive a learner's permit in Guam.
- Bring a valid form of identification and proof of residency to the DRT office in Hagatna when you explore.
- The written test is administered on-site and covers Guam traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules.
- Your learner's permit allows you to drive only when supervised by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and seated beside you.
- A learner's permit is valid for a set period — check with the DRT about renewal requirements and expiration dates.
Documents to bring to the DRT office
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or other government-issued photo ID. The DRT will not accept a photocopy of your birth certificate unless it is certified by the issuing office.
For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or other document showing your name and a Guam address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A school ID alone is not enough for residency proof.
If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian to sign consent forms. Ask the DRT whether your age requires parental permission when you call or visit.
How the written test works
The test is multiple-choice and covers Guam's traffic laws, road signs, speed limits, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. The exact number of questions and passing score are set by the DRT. You will take the test on a computer or paper form at the DRT office.
You can study using the Guam Driver's Manual, which is available at the DRT office or online. The manual covers everything tested. Most people study for a few days or a week before taking the test.
If you do not pass on your first try, you can retake the test. There is usually a waiting period between attempts — ask the DRT how long you must wait and whether there is an additional fee to retest.
Restrictions on your learner's permit
With a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is sitting beside you in the front seat. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only teenage passengers.
Your permit is not a license. It is a step toward getting a full driver's license. After you have held your permit for the required time and practiced driving, you will be able to take the road test and obtain your license.
Some permits have restrictions on when you can drive — for example, no driving after dark or during certain hours. The DRT will tell you what restrictions explore to your permit when you receive it.
How long your permit is valid
A learner's permit in Guam is valid for a set period, typically one to two years depending on the permit type. The DRT will stamp the expiration date on your permit when you receive it.
If your permit expires before you pass your road test and get your license, you will need to renew it. Renewal usually requires paying another fee and may require retaking the written test. Contact the DRT to find out the renewal process and cost.
Where to go and how to contact the DRT
The Guam Department of Revenue and Taxation Driver's License Section is located in Hagatna. You can visit in person during business hours to explore for your learner's permit, take the written test, and pay the fee.
Call the DRT ahead of time to confirm office hours, current fees, and whether you need to bring any additional documents based on your age or situation. The DRT can also tell you how long the written test takes and whether you should expect a wait.
Bring all required documents with you on the day you visit. If you are missing any documents, the DRT may not be able to process your process that day.
What happens after you pass the written test
Once you pass the written test, you will receive your learner's permit. You can begin driving with a licensed adult supervisor right away. Your permit will show the restrictions you must follow and the expiration date.
While you hold your permit, practice driving in different conditions — residential streets, busier roads, and different times of day. This experience prepares you for the road test, which is the next step toward getting your full license.
When you feel ready and have met any time requirements set by the DRT, you can schedule your road test. The road test is where you demonstrate that you can drive safely and follow traffic laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test the same day I explore for my learner's permit?
Yes. You can explore and take the written test on the same visit to the DRT office. Bring all required documents, and you may be able to test that day if the office is not too busy. Call ahead to ask about wait times.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test after a waiting period set by the DRT. There may be an additional fee for each retake. Ask the DRT how long you must wait between attempts and what the retake fee is.
Can I drive alone with my learner's permit?
No. You must have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old sitting beside you at all times. Driving alone with a learner's permit is illegal in Guam and can result in a fine.
How old do I have to be to get a learner's permit in Guam?
You must be at least 16 years old. If you are under 18, check with the DRT about whether you need parental consent to explore.
What do I do if my learner's permit expires before I get my license?
Contact the DRT about renewing your permit. You will likely need to pay a renewal fee and may need to retake the written test. Plan ahead so your permit does not expire while you are still practicing.