What you need to do to get a permit
Getting a driver's permit means going to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency, passing a written test about traffic laws, and paying a fee. The exact steps and documents required vary by state, but the general path is the same everywhere: gather documents that prove who you are and where you live, study the permit handbook, take the knowledge test, 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 16. Your state's DMV website lists the minimum age and the documents you'll need to bring. 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 proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or a statement that you don't have one to your DMV visit.
- The written test covers traffic signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices from your state's permit handbook, which is free and available online.
- Permit fees range from about $20 to $100 depending on your state and how long the permit lasts.
- After you pass the test, you can drive only with a licensed adult in the car, usually someone 18 or older, and only during daylight hours in most states.
- A permit is temporary and expires after a set period, usually one to three years, so you'll need to renew it if you don't pass your road test before it runs out.
Documents to bring to the DMV
Every state requires proof of identity, proof of where you live, and proof of your Social Security number. A birth certificate or passport works for identity. A utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address works for residency. Your Social Security card is the easiest proof of your number, but a tax return or W-2 also works. Some states accept a signed statement from a parent or guardian if you don't have a Social Security number.
If you're under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you. Most states require them to sign consent forms in person. A few states let you bring a notarized consent letter instead, but check your DMV's website first—rules differ. Bring the originals of all documents, not copies, unless your state's website specifically says copies are acceptable.
Some states now accept digital documents on your phone, but others do not. Check your DMV's website before you go to see whether they take photos of documents or require originals.
How to study for the written test
Your state's DMV publishes a free permit handbook online that covers everything on the test: traffic signs, speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking rules, and safe driving practices. read it from your state's DMV website or pick up a printed copy at the DMV office. Read it at least once, and read the sections on signs and right-of-way twice—those are where most people lose points.
Many states offer free practice tests on their DMV websites. Take these tests multiple times until you score 80 percent or higher. The real test usually requires a score of 70 to 80 percent to pass, depending on your state. Some private websites offer practice tests too, but stick with your state's official version first—it matches the real test most closely.
Study for at least a few days before your test. Cramming the night before rarely works because the test covers a lot of ground. Spend 30 minutes a day reading the handbook and taking practice tests, and you'll be ready in a week.
Taking the written test at the DMV
On the day of your test, arrive at the DMV at least 15 minutes early. Bring all your documents, your completed process (which you can usually fill out online beforehand or at the DMV), and a pen. The DMV staff will check your documents, take your photo, and direct you to a testing station.
The test is usually 30 to 50 questions and takes 20 to 45 minutes. You'll answer questions on a computer or on paper, depending on your state. The questions ask you to identify traffic signs, choose the correct action in a driving scenario, or answer true-or-false about traffic laws. You'll get your score when ready or within a few minutes.
If you pass, you'll pay the permit fee and receive your permit on the spot. If you fail, you can usually retake the test the same day or within a few days, though some states charge a fee for each attempt. Most people pass on the first try if they studied the handbook and took practice tests.
Permit fees and how long they last
Permit fees vary widely by state. Some states charge $20 to $30, while others charge $75 to $100. A few states charge different amounts depending on how long you want the permit to last—a one-year permit might cost less than a three-year permit. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee before you go, and bring cash or a debit card because not all DMV offices accept credit cards.
Most permits last one to three years. If you don't pass your road test before your permit expires, you'll need to renew it. Renewal usually costs less than the original permit and doesn't require retaking the written test—you just pay the fee and get a new permit with a new expiration date. Some states let you renew online, while others require an in-person visit.
Restrictions that come with your permit
A permit is not a license. It lets you practice driving, but only under specific conditions. In every state, you must have a licensed driver in the car with you—usually someone 18 or older, though some states require 21. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot let anyone else practice with your permit.
Most states restrict permit holders from driving at night, usually between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., though the exact hours vary. Some states don't allow phone use while driving, even hands-free. A few states limit the number of passengers you can carry. Read your permit card when you receive it—all your restrictions are printed there.
Breaking these rules can result in a ticket, fines, or suspension of your permit. If you're stopped by police while driving alone or outside your permitted hours, the officer can confiscate your permit and you'll have to reapply.
What happens after you get your permit
Once you have your permit, you can start practicing for your road test. Most states require you to hold a permit for a minimum amount of time—often 6 months to a year—before you can take the road test. Some states have no minimum, so you can test as soon as you feel ready. Check your state's rules on your DMV website.
Practice with a licensed adult in a variety of conditions: residential streets, highways, parking lots, and different times of day. Keep a log of your practice hours if your state requires it—some states require 50 to 100 hours of practice before you can test. When you feel ready, schedule your road test through your DMV website or by phone.
Your permit is your proof that you've passed the written test. You'll need to bring it to your road test appointment. If your permit expires before you test, you'll have to renew it before you can schedule a test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a permit if I'm homeschooled?
Yes. Homeschooling status doesn't affect permit may be able to access. You need to meet your state's age requirement and bring proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number, just like anyone else. Your school status doesn't appear on any of those documents.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake it. Most states let you test again the same day or within a few days. Some charge a fee for each attempt, others don't. You don't have to study the entire handbook again—focus on the topics you missed. Your DMV should tell you which questions you got wrong.
Do I need to take a driver's education class before getting a permit?
It depends on your state and your age. Some states require classroom instruction for drivers under 18, while others recommend it but don't require it. A few states waive the requirement if you complete an online course. Check your state's DMV website to see whether a class is required before you can test for your permit.
Can I use my permit in another state?
Most states honor permits from other states, but the restrictions may differ. If you travel to another state, follow that state's rules about who can be in the car and when you can drive. Some states have stricter rules than others. Call the DMV in the state you're visiting to confirm.
What if I lose my permit before I pass my road test?
Report it to your DMV right away. You can usually get a replacement permit for a small fee, often $10 to $20. Bring your ID and proof of residency, just like you did for the original permit. The replacement will have the same expiration date as your original permit.