You take the written permit test at your local Missouri Department of Revenue office

The Missouri Department of Revenue administers the written permit test at their driver license offices across the state. You cannot take the test online or by mail — you must go in person to an office location, bring your documents, and complete the exam on site. The test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, safe driving practices, and Missouri traffic laws.

You do not need an appointment at most Missouri offices, but some locations now use an online reservation system to manage wait times. Before you go, check your local office's website or call ahead to see whether they require you to reserve a time slot. Showing up without a reservation may mean a longer wait or being turned away if the office is at capacity.

Key Takeaways

  • Missouri Department of Revenue offices are the only place to take the written permit test, and you must appear in person with your documents.
  • Some offices use online reservations to manage crowds, so call or check the website for your local office before you go.
  • The test is offered during regular business hours, typically Monday through Friday, with limited Saturday hours at some locations.
  • You will need your Social Security number, proof of residency, proof of identity, and your completed process form when you arrive.
  • The test costs a fee that varies slightly by office but is typically under $10 for the permit exam itself.

Finding your nearest Missouri Department of Revenue office

Missouri has Department of Revenue driver license offices in most counties. The easiest way to find the one closest to you is to visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website and use their office locator tool. You can search by city or county, and the tool will show you the address, phone number, and hours for each location.

If you live in or near a major city like St. Louis, Kansas City, Springfield, or Columbia, you likely have multiple offices to choose from. Rural areas may have fewer options, but the state maintains at least one office in each region. Some offices are busier than others — if your nearest location has long wait times, you may be able to visit a less crowded office in a neighboring county.

Hours and how to reserve your test time

Most Missouri Department of Revenue offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, usually 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with an hour or half-hour break for lunch. Some locations offer limited Saturday hours, typically 8 a.m. to noon. Hours vary by office, so check your specific location's schedule before you plan your visit.

To reserve a time slot, visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website and look for the appointment or reservation system. Not all offices require reservations yet, but the state has been rolling out the system to reduce crowding. If your office uses it, you can pick a date and time that works for you. If your office does not use reservations, arrive early — permit test lines can be long during peak times, especially in the morning or on Fridays.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your completed Missouri Permit process (Form DL 44) to the office. You can fill this out at home before you go or complete it at the office. You will also need to bring proof of your Social Security number — your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return are all acceptable.

You must show proof of identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or school ID. You also need proof of residency, which can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you at your current address. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. Bring the originals, not copies — the office staff will verify them but will not keep them.

What to expect during the test

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give the staff your documents. They will verify your information and may ask you questions about your address, date of birth, or Social Security number. Once you are checked in, you will be called to a testing station where you will take the written exam on a computer or paper form, depending on the office.

The test has 25 questions and you must answer at least 18 correctly to pass. You will have time to review your answers before you submit. If you pass, the office will issue your permit on the spot. If you do not pass, you can usually retake the test the same day or schedule another visit. There is typically a fee for each test attempt.

Test fees and what happens after you pass

The written permit test fee is usually between $5 and $10, depending on your office. Some offices charge a separate process fee. Ask about the total cost when you check in so you know what to expect. Payment is typically cash or card.

Once you pass the test, you will receive your Missouri learner's permit, which is valid for one year. Your permit allows you to drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting in the front passenger seat. You can use your permit to practice for the road test, which you will take at a later date at the same Department of Revenue office or at an approved testing location.

What to do if you cannot visit in person

Missouri does not offer remote testing or mail-in options for the permit exam. You must take the test at a Department of Revenue office. If you have a documented disability or medical condition that makes it difficult to visit an office, contact your local office directly to ask about accommodations. Some offices may be able to arrange alternative testing methods or times, but this is handled case by case.

If you live outside Missouri temporarily but are a Missouri resident, you can still take your test at any Missouri Department of Revenue office when you return to the state. If you have moved out of state, you will need to follow that state's permit testing process instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the permit test without an appointment?

Yes, at offices that do not use the reservation system. However, some Missouri offices now require appointments to manage wait times. Check your local office's website or call ahead to confirm whether you need to reserve a slot. Walk-ins are still accepted at many locations, but you may wait longer.

What happens if I fail the permit test?

You can retake the test, usually the same day or within a few days. There is a fee for each attempt. Most people pass on the second try if they study the Missouri Driver Guide between attempts. The office staff can tell you which topics you missed so you know what to focus on.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

You need to bring proof of your Social Security number, but it does not have to be your card. A W-2, tax return, or other official document with your SSN works. If you do not have a Social Security number, contact your local office to ask about alternatives.

How long does the permit test take?

The test itself usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how quickly you work through the 25 questions. However, plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour at the office total, including check-in and waiting time. Busier offices may have longer waits.

Can someone help me study for the test before I go?

Yes. The Missouri Department of Revenue publishes the official Driver Guide online for free, and you can study it at home before your test. Many people also use practice tests and study apps. Bring the guide or your notes with you to the office if you want to review while you wait.