What you need to bring to the DMV

Louisiana's Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) requires you to bring specific documents in person. You cannot complete this by mail or online — you must visit an OMV office and pass a written test and vision screening.

Bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consulate ID card), proof of Louisiana residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must come with you and bring their own ID.

If you have a current driver's license from another state, bring that too — it may speed up the process. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an OMV office in person with proof of identity, proof of Louisiana residency dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number.
  • The written test covers Louisiana traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free OMV manual available on the Louisiana OMV website.
  • You will pay a fee at the time of your visit; the cost depends on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid.
  • Your license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days after you pass the test and vision screening.
  • If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another day at no additional cost.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 40 questions about Louisiana traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at the OMV office, and you receive your score when ready.

The OMV publishes a free study manual on its website that covers everything on the test. Many people study it for a few days before their visit and pass on the first try. If you do not pass, you can take the test again the same day or come back another time — there is no waiting period between attempts, and retakes do not cost extra.

If English is not your first language, ask the OMV office whether they offer the test in Spanish or another language. Not all offices do, so call ahead to confirm.

Vision screening and the road test

At your OMV visit, you will have your vision checked. You must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without glasses or contacts. If you wear corrective lenses, wear them to the OMV office.

Louisiana does not require a separate road test for a standard driver's license. Once you pass the written test and vision screening, you are done. Your license will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days.

If you are under 18, the rules are different — you must hold a learner's permit for at least 6 months and pass a road test before you can get a full license. The OMV website lists the requirements for teen drivers.

Fees and how long your license lasts

The cost of a Louisiana driver's license depends on how long you want it to be valid. A 4-year license costs less than an 8-year license. Fees also vary slightly depending on whether you are getting your first license or renewing one. The OMV website lists current fees, or you can call your local OMV office to ask.

You pay the fee at the time of your visit, before you take the written test. Payment methods vary by office — some take cash and card, while others may only take card. Call ahead to confirm what your local office accepts.

Finding your nearest OMV office and making an appointment

Louisiana has OMV offices in most parishes (counties). You can find the office nearest you on the Louisiana OMV website, which lists addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Some offices are open Monday through Friday, while others have Saturday hours.

Most OMV offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but some allow you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Calling ahead is a good idea — it tells you how busy the office is and whether they have any documents you might be missing. Wait times can range from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the time of day and day of the week.

What happens if you fail or need to reschedule

If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready at no extra cost. You do not have to leave the office or come back another day. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after reviewing the study manual more carefully.

If you need to reschedule your visit, you can call the OMV office to cancel and come back another time. There is no penalty for rescheduling. If you have already paid the fee and need to reschedule, ask whether the fee carries over to your new appointment or whether you will need to pay again.

After your license arrives

Your license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Check it for errors — if your name, address, or date of birth is wrong, contact the OMV office where you took the test and ask them to correct it. Corrections are usually free.

Your license is valid for the number of years you paid for (4 or 8 years). When it is about to expire, the OMV will send you a renewal notice in the mail. You can renew by mail, online, or in person depending on your situation — the renewal notice will explain your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my passport as proof of identity?

Yes, a valid passport is one of the documents the OMV accepts as proof of identity. You can also use a birth certificate, consulate ID card, or current driver's license from another state. Bring the original document, not a copy.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, you can use that. Bring the document that shows your ITIN. If you have neither, contact the OMV office to ask what documents they will accept in your situation.

How long does the whole process take?

Your visit to the OMV office usually takes 1 to 2 hours from arrival to finish, depending on how busy it is. After you leave, your license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. If you need a license sooner, ask the OMV office whether they offer expedited mail or same-day printing.

Can I get a license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?

Unpaid traffic tickets or child support obligations may prevent you from getting a license. Contact the OMV office or the court that issued the ticket to find out whether there are any holds on your record before you visit.

What if I moved to Louisiana from another state?

You must get a Louisiana license within 30 days of becoming a resident. Bring your out-of-state license along with your other documents — it will make the process faster. You do not need to take the written test if your out-of-state license is still valid, but you will still need to pass the vision screening.