What you need to bring to the DMV

The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires you to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number before you can get a driver's license. You cannot complete this in one visit without these documents — the DMV will turn you away if any are missing.

For proof of identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport, a consular report of birth, or a certificate of naturalization. A photocopy of your birth certificate will not work. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or immigration documents.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill with your name and a Las Vegas address on it. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. You cannot use a PO box as your address.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number on it. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) document instead.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring an original birth certificate or passport, a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days, and your Social Security card or pay stub — all three are required on your first visit.
  • The Nevada DMV in Las Vegas is located on Industrial Road; you can make an appointment online or walk in, though appointments move faster.
  • You will take a written test on Nevada traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test before you receive your license.
  • A standard driver's license costs $42.50 and is valid for eight years; you can renew it by mail or online if you have no violations.
  • If you hold a valid driver's license from another state, you may not need to take the written and driving tests again, depending on how long you have held it.

Where to go and how to schedule your visit

The main DMV office in Las Vegas is located at 333 West Sahara Avenue. There is also a satellite office at 7250 South Durango Drive. Both offices handle driver's license applications, but wait times vary. You can walk in without an appointment, but you will wait longer — often two to four hours during peak times.

To make an appointment, go to dmvnv.com and click "Make an Appointment." You will select your location, the type of service you need (new driver's license), and your preferred date and time. Appointments typically have a wait of one to three weeks, but you will be seen within 15 minutes of your scheduled time. If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it online so someone else can use that slot.

Bring all your documents in originals or certified copies. The DMV staff will not accept photocopies of your birth certificate, passport, or Social Security card. If you are unsure whether a document counts as proof of residency, call the DMV at (702) 486-4368 before you go.

The written test and what it covers

Before you take the driving test, you must pass a written test on Nevada traffic laws and road signs. The test has 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass. You get one attempt per visit — if you fail, you can schedule another appointment and try again.

The test covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, and what to do at traffic lights and stop signs. You can study using the Nevada Driver's Handbook, which is free and available online at dmvnv.com or in print at the DMV office. Many people study the handbook for one to two weeks before taking the test.

The test is given on a computer at the DMV. You will have time to read each question carefully. If English is not your first language, you can request an interpreter or take the test in Spanish, Chinese, Tagalog, or Vietnamese — tell the DMV when you make your appointment.

The vision and driving tests

After you pass the written test, you will take a vision test. An eye chart will measure whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you will not be able to take the driving test that day, and you will need to see an eye doctor and bring a signed form from them before you can try again.

The driving test comes next. A DMV examiner will sit in the car with you while you drive a set route through Las Vegas. The test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. You will be tested on your ability to start the car, turn, stop, park, and follow traffic laws. You must use your turn signals, check your mirrors, and obey all speed limits and traffic signs. If you make a serious mistake — such as running a red light, hitting something, or driving recklessly — you will fail and can retake the test after scheduling another appointment.

Bring the vehicle you plan to use for the test. The car must be registered, insured, and in working condition. The examiner will check that the brakes, lights, and windshield wipers work before you start driving.

Cost and how long your license lasts

A standard Nevada driver's license costs $42.50. You pay this fee at the DMV when your license is issued. If you are under 18, the cost is different — ask the DMV for current pricing for minors.

Your license will be valid for eight years from the date it is issued. When it is about to expire, the DMV will send you a notice in the mail. You can renew your license by mail, online, or in person at the DMV. If you have no traffic violations or suspensions, you can renew by mail or online without taking any tests again.

If you already have a driver's license from another state

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and you have held it for at least one year, Nevada may waive the written and driving tests. You will still need to pass the vision test and bring all the same documents (proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number).

If your out-of-state license is expired or you have held it for less than one year, you will need to take both the written and driving tests. Bring your out-of-state license with you when you go to the DMV — the staff will need to see it.

Your out-of-state license will be surrendered when you receive your Nevada license. If you want to keep it as a souvenir, ask the DMV staff — some offices will return it to you, but this is not may provide.

What to do if you fail the driving test

If you do not pass the driving test on your first try, you can retake it. You do not need to take the written test again — you only retake the driving test. Schedule another appointment through dmvnv.com or by calling (702) 486-4368. Many people pass on their second or third attempt.

Before you retake the test, spend time practicing with someone who holds a valid license. Practice the same route if you can, or practice similar turns, stops, and parking maneuvers. Common reasons people fail include not using turn signals, not checking mirrors, stopping too abruptly, and misjudging distance when parking.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Nevada driver's license from start to finish?

If you pass all tests on your first visit, you will receive your license the same day. If you need to retake the written or driving test, you will need to schedule another appointment, which typically takes one to three weeks. The entire process from your first visit to holding a license usually takes two to four weeks.

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. Nevada offers the written test in Spanish, Chinese, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. Tell the DMV when you make your appointment or when you arrive for a walk-in visit. An interpreter can also be provided if you request one in advance.

What happens if I move to a different address in Nevada?

You must update your address with the DMV within 30 days of moving. You can do this online at dmvnv.com, by mail, or in person at the DMV. There is no fee to update your address. You do not need to take any tests again.

Do I need to take a driving test if I transfer my license from another state?

Not if you have held a valid driver's license in another state for at least one year. You will still take the vision test and bring proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. If your license is expired or you have held it for less than a year, you will need to take both the written and driving tests.

What if I cannot find my birth certificate?

You can order a certified copy from the state or county where you were born. Contact the vital records office in that location. A passport, consular report of birth, or certificate of naturalization also works as proof of identity. The DMV will not accept a photocopy — it must be an original or certified copy.