What you need to get a Louisiana learner's permit

A Louisiana learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take your road test. To get one, you'll need to visit your local Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV), pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, and show proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. You must be at least 15 years old.

The written test covers Louisiana traffic rules, safe driving practices, and what road signs mean. You can study using the official Louisiana Driver's Guide, which the OMV provides free online and in print at their offices. Most people spend a few weeks preparing before they feel ready to test.

Your learner's permit is valid for four years from the date you receive it. During this time, you can drive only when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old sits in the front passenger seat with you.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years old and bring proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number to the OMV.
  • The written test covers Louisiana traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free Louisiana Driver's Guide.
  • Your learner's permit is valid for four years and requires a licensed driver at least 21 years old to be in the front seat whenever you drive.
  • You cannot drive alone, at night without restrictions, or on interstate highways until you pass your road test and receive your regular license.

Documents to bring to the OMV

Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies usually will not work. You need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or state ID), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and current address), and your Social Security number or a Social Security card.

If you are under 18, you may also need a parent or guardian to sign consent forms at the OMV. Rules vary slightly by parish, so call your local OMV office before you go to confirm what they require.

How to prepare for the written test

The Louisiana Driver's Guide is your main study tool. It covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, what to do at traffic lights and stop signs, and how to read road signs. The guide is free and available on the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development website, or you can pick up a printed copy at any OMV office.

Most of the test questions come straight from the guide, so reading it carefully is the best way to prepare. You can also take practice tests online through some OMV-approved websites, though these are optional. Plan to spend at least two to three weeks studying before you test.

On test day, you will answer multiple-choice questions on a computer or paper form, depending on your local OMV office. You need to score at least 60 percent to pass. If you do not pass, you can retake the test after waiting a few days — your local OMV will tell you the exact waiting period.

Restrictions that come with your learner's permit

While you hold a learner's permit, you cannot drive alone at any time. A licensed driver at least 21 years old must be in the front passenger seat. You also cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free.

You cannot drive on interstate highways, and you must follow all other traffic laws exactly as written — speeding, running red lights, or other violations can result in your permit being suspended. If you get a ticket or are in an accident while driving on your learner's permit, tell your parent or guardian right away and contact the OMV to understand what happens next.

Moving from learner's permit to regular license

After you have held your learner's permit for at least one year, you can schedule your road test. The road test checks whether you can steer, brake, park, and follow traffic laws in real driving conditions. You will drive with an OMV examiner in your car for about 15 to 20 minutes.

To schedule your road test, contact your local OMV office or use their online scheduling system if available. Bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be driving during the test. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

If you pass the road test, you will receive your regular driver's license. If you do not pass, you can retake the test after waiting a short period — usually a few days to a week. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.

What happens if your learner's permit expires

Your learner's permit is valid for four years. If you do not pass your road test before it expires, you will need to retake the written test and get a new learner's permit. You do not have to wait any specific amount of time between your old permit expiring and explore for a new one, but you do have to pass the written test again.

If your permit expires while you are waiting to schedule your road test, contact your local OMV office. Some offices will extend your permit or let you take your road test on an expired permit if you have already scheduled it. Rules vary by parish, so ask your OMV office what they allow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online from home?

No. You must go to an OMV office in person to take the written test. The OMV administers the test to make sure you are who you say you are and that you are not using outside materials during the test.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it after waiting a few days. Your local OMV office will tell you the exact waiting period and let you know when you can schedule your next attempt. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.

Do I need a parent or guardian to go with me to get my learner's permit?

If you are under 18, most OMV offices require a parent or guardian to sign consent forms. Call your local office to confirm their rules. If you are 18 or older, you can go alone.

Can I drive my friend's car on my learner's permit?

Yes, as long as a licensed driver at least 21 years old is in the front passenger seat. The car must be registered and insured. You do not have to be the owner of the vehicle to drive it on a learner's permit.

What if I get a ticket while driving on my learner's permit?

Tell your parent or guardian and contact your local OMV office. Violations on a learner's permit can result in suspension or revocation. The OMV will explain what happens and what steps you need to take next.