What you need to bring and where to go

To get a Missouri driver's license, you visit a Missouri Department of Revenue office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The state does not issue licenses by mail or online. You will take a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test before the license is issued. The whole process typically takes one visit, though you may need to return for the driving test if the office is busy that day.

Missouri has two types of licenses: a regular driver's license and a nondriver ID card (which proves identity but does not permit driving). Both require the same documents and follow the same process at the Department of Revenue office.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a government-issued photo ID, proof you live in Missouri, and your Social Security card or number to your local Department of Revenue office.
  • You will take a written test on Missouri traffic laws, a vision screening, and a behind-the-wheel driving test before receiving your license.
  • The written test can be taken in English or Spanish, and the state offers study materials online at dmv.mo.gov.
  • If you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for a set period before taking the driving test.
  • Renewal by mail is available for some drivers, but your first license always requires an in-person visit.

Documents you must bring

You need three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. A government-issued photo ID counts as proof of identity — a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring a combination of documents like a birth certificate plus a school ID or employee badge.

Proof of residency means a document showing your current Missouri address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts. You do not need to own property — renting is fine, and the document just needs to show your name and address.

For your Social Security number, bring your actual Social Security card if you have it. If you do not, bring a document that shows your number, such as a W-2 form, tax return, or bank statement. You can also provide the number verbally and sign a statement confirming it, though having a document is faster.

The written test on traffic laws

The written test covers Missouri traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It has 25 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 18 correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish. You can study using the Missouri Driver Guide, available free as a PDF on the Department of Revenue website at dmv.mo.gov, or you can request a printed copy at the office.

The test is taken on a computer at the Department of Revenue office on the day you visit. You will sit at a terminal, answer the questions, and get your score when ready. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day — there is no waiting period between attempts within Missouri.

Vision screening and the driving test

After you pass the written test, you take a vision screening at the office. An employee will check your eyesight using a machine or chart. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them — the test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely with your correction.

The driving test happens in a Department of Revenue vehicle with an examiner. You will demonstrate basic skills: starting the car, turning, parking, backing up, and stopping. The examiner watches how you handle the steering wheel, check your mirrors, and respond to traffic. The test usually lasts 10 to 15 minutes. You must pass the written test and vision screening before you can take the driving test.

Requirements if you are under 18

If you are under 18, Missouri requires you to complete a driver education course before you can get a license. This course covers traffic laws and safe driving and is offered by high schools, private driving schools, and online providers. After finishing the course, you receive a certificate of completion that you bring to the Department of Revenue office.

You also must hold a learner's permit for at least 182 days (about six months) before you can take the driving test for a full license. During this time, you can drive only with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front passenger seat. The learner's permit itself requires the same documents and written test as a regular license, but no driving test.

Finding your nearest Department of Revenue office

Missouri has multiple Department of Revenue offices across the state. You can find the one nearest you on the dmv.mo.gov website by entering your city or zip code. The website shows office hours, which vary by location — some are open weekdays only, while others have Saturday hours.

Wait times vary by office and time of day. Offices tend to be busier in the morning and on Fridays. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you plan. Some offices allow you to reserve a time slot online, which reduces waiting.

Cost and how long it takes

A Missouri driver's license costs $11.50 for a four-year license or $23 for an eight-year license. Payment is cash or card at the office. The nondriver ID card costs $11.50 for four years or $23 for eight years. These prices do not include the cost of a driver education course if you are under 18, which varies by provider.

The entire process at the office — written test, vision screening, and driving test — usually takes one to three hours, depending on how busy the office is and whether you pass each test on your first attempt. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it, but you may need to schedule another appointment or return on a different day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license by mail?

Yes, but only if you already have a Missouri license and meet certain conditions. You must not have any medical restrictions, your license must not be expired by more than one year, and you must not have had certain violations. If you meet these requirements, you can renew by mail or online. Your first license always requires an in-person visit.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it. There is no waiting period between attempts in Missouri. You may be able to schedule another test the same day if the office has availability, or you can return another day. You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening unless your license expires.

Do I need a learner's permit before I take the driving test?

Only if you are under 18. Adults 18 and older can take the written test and driving test on the same day without holding a learner's permit first. Minors must hold a learner's permit for at least 182 days and complete a driver education course before taking the driving test.

What if I move to Missouri from another state?

You can exchange your out-of-state license for a Missouri license at a Department of Revenue office. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of Missouri residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You will take the written test and vision screening, but you may not need to take the driving test if your out-of-state license is valid and you meet other requirements — ask the office when you visit.

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

Missouri offers the written test in English and Spanish only. If you need help understanding the questions, bring someone to interpret for you, though the interpreter cannot answer the questions for you.