What you need to do to get a driving permit
Getting a driving permit involves visiting your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency, passing a written test on traffic laws, and paying a fee. The exact steps and documents required vary by state, but the basic path is the same everywhere: you show up with proof of identity and residency, answer questions about road signs and safe driving, and walk out with a permit that lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car.
Most states issue permits to people as young as 14 or 15, though some allow 13-year-olds to begin the process. You do not need a valid driver's license to get a permit — the permit itself is what you use while learning. The whole process usually takes one visit and a few hours, though some states now let you take the written test online.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring a government-issued ID (passport, birth certificate, or state ID) and proof of your current address to the DMV.
- The written test covers traffic signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices; most states let you retake it if you fail, usually the same day or within a few days.
- Permit fees range from about $10 to $50 depending on your state and how long the permit lasts.
- Once you have a permit, you can drive only with a licensed adult in the front seat, and some states restrict night driving or limit passengers.
- A permit is temporary and expires after a set period — usually one to three years — so you must pass the road test and get a full license before it runs out.
Documents you need to bring to the DMV
Bring a government-issued photo ID. A passport works in every state. A birth certificate works in most states but is not a photo ID, so you may need to bring it alongside another form of ID. Some states accept a school ID if you also bring your birth certificate. Check your state's DMV website before you go — the exact list of acceptable documents differs.
You also need proof of your current address. A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. A piece of mail from a government agency (tax return, court document, benefit letter) also counts. If you live with a parent or guardian and your name is not on the bill, bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on it, along with their ID and a utility bill showing their address.
Some states require a Social Security number or proof of it. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form. If you do not have a Social Security number, tell the DMV when you arrive — they will walk you through alternatives.
How the written test works
The written test is a multiple-choice exam on your state's traffic laws and road signs. Most states give you 30 to 50 questions and require you to answer 70 to 80 percent correctly to pass. You sit at a computer or paper desk at the DMV and answer questions like "What does a yellow diamond sign mean?" or "When must you yield to a pedestrian?"
You can study using your state's official DMV handbook, which is free and available online or in print at the DMV office. Many states also offer practice tests on their DMV website so you know what to expect. Spend a few hours reading the handbook and taking practice tests before you go — most people pass on the first try if they study.
If you fail, you can usually retake the test the same day or within a few days, depending on your state. There is no penalty for failing except that you have to pay the test fee again. Some states charge $5 to $10 per retake; others include unlimited retakes in the original fee.
The permit fee and how long it lasts
Permit fees range from about $10 in some states to $50 in others. A few states charge less than $10; a few charge more than $50. The fee usually covers the permit itself and the written test. If you retake the test, some states charge an additional fee per attempt.
A permit is valid for one to three years depending on your state. Some states give longer permits to older teenagers (16 or 17) than to younger ones (14 or 15). Check your state's rules — if your permit expires before you pass the road test and get your full license, you will have to renew the permit and may have to retake the written test.
Restrictions that come with your permit
A permit is not a license. You can only drive with a licensed adult (usually 21 or older) sitting in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot let anyone else drive the car while you are in it.
Many states also restrict when and where you can drive. Common restrictions include no driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., no more than one passenger under 20 years old, and no use of a cell phone even hands-free. Some states restrict highway driving or require you to display a special permit decal on your license plate. Read the back of your permit card — the restrictions are printed there.
Breaking these rules can result in a ticket, a fine, or suspension of your permit. If your permit is suspended, you cannot drive at all until the suspension is lifted, even with an adult in the car.
What happens after you get your permit
Once you have a permit, you practice driving with a licensed adult. Most states require you to log a certain number of supervised driving hours — often 30 to 50 hours, with some of those hours at night — before you can take the road test. Keep a log of your practice drives so you can show it when you go for the test.
When you feel ready, you schedule a road test at your DMV. The test usually takes 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic skills like parking, turning, and obeying traffic signs. You must pass the road test to get your full driver's license. If you fail, you can retake it after a waiting period — usually a few days to a few weeks.
Your permit expires on a set date printed on the card. If you have not passed the road test by then, you must renew your permit before you can continue practicing or take the test. Renewal usually costs less than the original permit and may not require retaking the written test, depending on your state.
Differences by state and age
Every state sets its own rules for permit age, fees, test content, and restrictions. Some states let 13-year-olds get a permit; others require you to be 15. Some states have a separate "learner's permit" stage and a "junior license" stage before a full license; others go straight from permit to license. A few states let you take the written test online; most require you to go to the DMV in person.
The best source for your state's specific rules is your state's DMV website. Search "[your state] DMV permit requirements" and you will find the official handbook, fee schedule, and list of acceptable documents. If you cannot find what you need online, call your local DMV office — staff can answer questions about documents and test rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a permit if I do not have a birth certificate?
It depends on your state and what other documents you have. A passport works in every state and counts as both ID and proof of citizenship. If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, contact your state DMV to ask what documents they will accept — some states allow a combination of documents like a school ID plus a government letter with your name and address.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake it, usually the same day or within a few days. Study the areas where you missed questions using your state's DMV handbook or practice tests. Most people pass on the second try. There is a fee for each retake in some states but not others.
Do I have to log my practice driving hours?
Most states require a certain number of supervised hours before you can take the road test — often 30 to 50 hours. Keep a straightforward log with the date, time, and location of each drive. When you go for your road test, bring the log to show you have met the requirement.
What happens if my permit expires before I pass the road test?
You must renew your permit at the DMV before you can continue practicing or take the road test. Renewal is usually cheaper than the original permit and may not require retaking the written test. Check your state's rules on renewal — some states let you renew online or by mail.
Can I drive alone with a permit in any state?
No. Every state requires a licensed adult in the front seat. Driving alone with a permit is illegal and can result in a ticket, fine, or suspension of your permit.