What you need to do to get a Nevada driver's license in Las Vegas

To get a driver's license in Las Vegas, you will visit the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), pass a written test about traffic laws, pass a driving test, and pay a fee. The whole process takes at least two visits — one for the written test and one for the driving test — and you cannot take the driving test on the same day as the written test. Most people complete both tests within two to four weeks if they schedule appointments in advance.

Nevada requires you to be at least 16 years old to get a driver's license. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person. You will also need to show proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Nevada residency — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works for residency.

Key Takeaways

  • You must pass a written test on Nevada traffic laws and a separate driving test, with at least one day between them.
  • The Las Vegas DMV office is located at 333 South Lamb Boulevard, and you can schedule a test appointment online at dmvnv.com or by phone at 702-486-4368.
  • Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number, a government-issued ID, and proof that you live in Nevada, such as a recent utility bill or lease.
  • The written test covers Nevada traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free Nevada Driver's Handbook available on the DMV website.
  • The driving test lasts about 20 minutes and tests your ability to start the car, turn, park, and follow traffic laws in real driving conditions.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form or tax return. If you do not have your Social Security card, you can bring a birth certificate, passport, or military discharge papers instead. You will also need a government-issued photo ID — a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work.

For proof of Nevada residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and current Las Vegas address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement will work. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must come with you and bring their own ID and proof of residency.

How to schedule your written test appointment

Go to dmvnv.com and click "Schedule an Appointment" to book your written test. You can also call the Las Vegas DMV office at 702-486-4368 during business hours. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Appointments fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so book as far in advance as you can.

When you schedule, you will choose a date and time for your written test. The DMV office in Las Vegas is located at 333 South Lamb Boulevard, near the intersection with East Lake Mead Boulevard. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all your documents. If you miss your appointment, you will need to schedule a new one.

Preparing for and taking the written test

The written test has 50 questions about Nevada traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at the DMV office, and it takes about 30 minutes. You can take the test in English or Spanish.

Study using the free Nevada Driver's Handbook, which you can read from dmvnv.com or pick up in person at the DMV office. The handbook covers everything 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. Many people study the handbook for a few days or a week before their test. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you will have to schedule another appointment and pay the test fee again.

Scheduling and taking the driving test

After you pass the written test, you will schedule your driving test at a separate appointment. You can schedule it the same day you take the written test, but you cannot take the driving test until at least one day later. The driving test lasts about 20 minutes and takes place on real Las Vegas streets, not in a parking lot.

For the driving test, bring the same documents you brought for the written test, plus the vehicle you will be driving. The car must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition — the examiner will check the lights, wipers, horn, and brakes before you drive. You must also bring someone who is at least 18 years old and holds a valid driver's license to sit in the passenger seat during the test. That person cannot be a DMV employee or examiner.

During the test, the examiner will ask you to start the car, drive in traffic, turn left and right, change lanes, park, and follow traffic signs and signals. The examiner is looking for safe driving — smooth turns, proper use of signals, stopping at red lights and stop signs, and staying in your lane. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you will need to schedule another appointment.

Paying the fee and receiving your license

The fee for a Nevada driver's license is $47 for a four-year license or $97 for an eight-year license. You pay this fee after you pass both the written and driving tests. The DMV accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you are under 18, your license will be valid until your 21st birthday, and the fee is lower.

After you pay, the DMV will take your photo and issue your temporary driver's license on the spot. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for the permanent one to arrive.

What to do if you fail either test

If you fail the written test, you can retake it as soon as you schedule another appointment. There is no waiting period, but you will pay the test fee again. Many people study the Nevada Driver's Handbook more thoroughly after a first failure and pass on the second try.

If you fail the driving test, you can also retake it by scheduling another appointment. You do not have to retake the written test. Common reasons for failing the driving test include running a red light or stop sign, hitting the curb while parking, not using your turn signal, or driving too fast or too slow. Ask the examiner what you did wrong so you can practice that skill before your next test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the driving test in a rental car or someone else's car?

Yes, as long as the car is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check the lights, wipers, horn, and brakes before you start. The car does not have to be registered in your name.

What happens if I move to a different address after I get my license?

You can update your address online at dmvnv.com or in person at the DMV office. You do not need to retake any tests. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days.

Do I need to take a driver's education class before I can get my license?

Nevada does not require driver's education for adults. If you are under 18, you must complete a driver's education course before you can get your license. The course can be taken online or in person through a private driving school.

How long is a Nevada driver's license valid?

A Nevada driver's license is valid for four or eight years, depending on which one you choose when you pay the fee. You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person at the DMV office before it expires.

What if I have an out-of-state driver's license — do I need to take the tests again?

If you move to Nevada and have a valid driver's license from another state, you can exchange it for a Nevada license without taking the written or driving test. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Nevada residency, and your Social Security card or number to the DMV office.