Get your permit from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles

Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) — sometimes called the Secretary of State, Registry of Motor Vehicles, or Department of Transportation — is the only place that issues driving permits. You cannot get one from a third party, online service, or private driving school, though some schools can help you study or schedule your test.

The DMV office you visit must be in the state where you plan to drive. If you live in one state and want to get your permit in another, you'll need to visit an office in that second state in person. Some states allow you to renew or replace a permit by mail or online after your first visit, but the initial permit always requires you to show up.

Finding your local DMV office is straightforward: search "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] driving permit" online, and you'll land on the official state website. That site lists office locations, hours, and often lets you book an appointment. Booking ahead usually cuts your wait time from hours to 15 or 20 minutes.

Key Takeaways

  • Only your state DMV issues permits — no private company or online service can do it for you.
  • You must visit a DMV office in person for your first permit; bring your state ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
  • Most states require you to pass a written knowledge test and a vision screening before you get the permit.
  • Appointment booking through your state's DMV website usually saves hours of waiting time.
  • Permit costs range from roughly $20 to $50 depending on your state and how long the permit lasts.

What documents to bring to the DMV

Bring your current state ID or passport, a document proving where you live (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address), and your Social Security number or ITIN. Some states also ask for a birth certificate or certified copy of it. Check your state's DMV website before you go — the exact list varies, and showing up without the right papers means a wasted trip.

If you're under 18, bring a parent or guardian with a valid ID. Some states require the parent to sign consent forms in person; others let you bring a signed form from home. Again, your state's website will specify. If you're explore for a permit in a state where you don't live, you may need proof that you're a resident of that state or have a legitimate reason to get a permit there.

Bring cash or a debit card for the permit fee. Not all DMV offices accept all payment methods, so check ahead. Some offices are cash-only; others take cards but not checks.

The written knowledge test and vision screening

Before you leave with your permit, you'll take a written test on traffic laws and road signs — usually 30 to 50 questions, and you need to pass with a score of 70 to 80 percent depending on your state. You can study using your state's official driver manual, which is free on the DMV website. Many states also offer practice tests online so you know what to expect.

You'll also have a vision screening at the DMV office. An employee will check that you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you may be asked to see an eye doctor and bring a form signed by them before you can get your permit.

Some states let you take the knowledge test online before you visit the office; others make you take it there. A few states offer the test in languages other than English. Your state's DMV website will tell you which option applies to you.

How long the permit process takes

If you have an appointment and bring all the right documents, you can walk out with your permit the same day — usually within an hour. Without an appointment, expect to wait 2 to 4 hours, sometimes longer in busy urban areas.

A few states mail the permit to you after your visit instead of handing it over on the spot. In those cases, allow 1 to 2 weeks for delivery. Your state's DMV website will say whether your permit is issued when ready or mailed.

If you fail the knowledge test, you can usually retake it the same day or schedule another visit within a few days. Failing the vision test means you need to see an eye doctor first, which adds time.

Permit fees and how long permits last

Driving permit fees range from about $20 to $50, depending on your state and how long the permit is valid. Most permits last 6 months to 2 years. A few states charge more if you want a longer permit, and some offer discounts if you're a student or low-income.

Some states include the permit fee in your eventual driver's license fee, so you don't pay twice. Others charge separately for the permit and then again for the license. Your state's DMV website will show the exact cost before you go.

If your permit expires before you pass the driving test and get your license, you'll need to renew it. Renewal is usually cheaper than the first permit and can often be done online or by mail, though some states require you to retake the knowledge test.

What to do if you can't visit the DMV in person

If you live far from a DMV office or have a disability that makes travel difficult, some states offer mobile DMV services or allow a representative to explore on your behalf. A few states have partnerships with certain libraries or other public buildings where you can take the knowledge test, though you still need to visit a full DMV office for your first permit.

If you're out of state temporarily, you generally cannot get a permit in another state unless you're a resident there. Some states let you transfer a permit from another state if you move, but you'll still need to visit the DMV in your new state.

If you have a language barrier, bring a trusted friend or family member to interpret. Some DMV offices have staff who speak other languages, and some offer tests in multiple languages — ask when you call or check the website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a permit online without visiting the DMV?

No. You must visit a DMV office in person for your first permit. You'll need to pass the vision screening and knowledge test there, and show your ID and documents to an employee. Some states let you renew a permit online later, but the initial permit always requires an in-person visit.

What if I fail the knowledge test?

You can usually retake it the same day or within a few days. There's often a small fee for each retake, usually $5 to $10. Study your state's driver manual between attempts — most people pass on the second or third try.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a permit?

Most states require it, but if you don't have one, you can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. Some states accept other forms of identification if you have neither. Call your state DMV to ask what you can use.

Can someone else pick up my permit for me?

No. You must be present to take the knowledge test and vision screening, and to sign the permit. If your state mails the permit, it goes to the address you provided, but you still have to be there for the office visit.

What happens if I move to a different state after I get my permit?

Your permit is only valid in the state that issued it. If you move, you'll need to get a new permit from your new state's DMV. Some states let you transfer your test scores or skip the knowledge test if you recently passed it elsewhere, but policies vary — ask your new state's DMV.