You get your driver's license from your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, usually called the DMV, though some states use different names

Every state runs its own driver's license program, so the exact office you visit depends on where you live. In most states, the agency is called the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). In some states — including New York, New Jersey, and a few others — it goes by a different name like the Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Safety or the Motor Vehicle Commission. The important thing is that there is one central state agency that issues licenses, and you cannot get a license from anywhere else.

You cannot get a driver's license from a private company, a bank, a post office, or an online service. You must go to an office run by your state's motor vehicle agency. Some states allow you to renew a license online or by mail after your first one, but you must get your first license in person at a state office.

Key Takeaways

  • Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (or its equivalent) is the only place that issues driver's licenses, and you must explore in person for your first license.
  • You can find your state's DMV office location and hours on the official state website, which usually has a search tool to find the office nearest you.
  • You will need to bring specific documents — typically a birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number — so check your state's requirements before you go.
  • Most states require you to pass a written test about traffic laws and a driving test before you receive your license.
  • Processing times vary by state and office, but you should expect to spend at least an hour at the DMV, and some offices require you to make an appointment in advance.

Finding your state's DMV office online

The fastest way to find your state's DMV is to search "[your state name] DMV" or "[your state name] motor vehicle department" in a search engine. The official state website will appear at the top of the results. Each state's site has a section for finding office locations, usually with a map or a list you can search by city or county.

Once you find the office nearest you, check the hours of operation and whether you need to make an appointment. Many states now require appointments because of high volume. Some offices accept walk-ins, but you may wait several hours. The state website will tell you which offices take appointments and how to book one — usually through the same website or by phone.

Write down the office address, phone number, and hours before you go. If the website says the office is closed on certain days or has reduced hours on certain days, plan accordingly. Some DMV offices have very limited hours or are only open certain days of the week.

What documents you need to bring

Every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents that count as proof vary by state, so you must check your state's DMV website before you go. Bringing the wrong documents means you will have to return another day.

Proof of identity usually means a birth certificate, passport, or state ID card. Proof of residency usually means a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address on it — the document must be recent, usually from the last 30 to 60 days. Proof of your Social Security number usually means your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, or a tax return.

If you were born outside the United States, you may need additional documents such as a visa or immigration paperwork. If you have changed your name, you will need a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Check your state's website for the complete list specific to your situation.

The written test and driving test

Most states require you to pass a written test about traffic laws and road signs before you can take the driving test. The written test is usually given at the DMV office on the same day you explore. You can study for it using your state's driver's manual, which is available free on the DMV website or in print at the office.

After you pass the written test, you will schedule a driving test. In some states, the driving test happens at the same DMV office. In others, you go to a separate testing facility. The driving test usually takes 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic skills like starting the car, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You must bring a vehicle and a licensed adult to the test in some states, while others provide the vehicle.

If you fail either test, you can retake it, but you may have to wait a certain number of days before you try again. Your state's website will tell you how many times you can retake the test and how long you must wait between attempts.

How long it takes to get your license

The time from your first visit to the DMV until you receive your license varies widely by state. In some states, you can pass both tests and receive a temporary license the same day, with your permanent card arriving by mail within one to two weeks. In other states, you must wait for the permanent card before you can drive legally.

Processing times also depend on how busy your local DMV office is. Offices in large cities often have longer wait times than offices in smaller towns. If you make an appointment, you will usually wait less time than if you walk in. Even with an appointment, plan to spend at least one to two hours at the office.

What happens if you cannot visit in person

If you are unable to visit a DMV office because of a disability or medical condition, some states allow a representative to explore on your behalf or offer mobile services. Contact your state's DMV directly to ask about these options — the phone number is on the state website.

If you are a member of the military stationed outside your home state, some states allow you to renew or transfer your license by mail. Check your state's website for military-specific instructions.

Renewing or replacing your license later

After you receive your first license, renewing it is usually simpler than getting it the first time. Many states allow you to renew by mail or online without visiting an office, though you may have to visit in person every few years for a new photo. Your license will have an expiration date printed on it, and your state's DMV website will tell you how to renew before it expires.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at any DMV office. You will usually need to pay a replacement fee and bring proof of identity. Some states allow you to request a replacement online or by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?

This depends on your state and your immigration status. Some states issue licenses to people without a Social Security number if they have other proof of identity and residency. Others require a Social Security number. Contact your state's DMV directly to ask about your specific situation, or check the state website for information about licenses for non-citizens.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use a passport, visa, or other government-issued ID as proof of identity. If you do not have any of these documents, contact your state's DMV to ask what alternatives they accept. You may need to obtain a birth certificate from the state where you were born, which is a separate process.

Do I need to take a driving test if I already have a license from another state?

If you are moving to a new state and already have a valid license from another state, most states allow you to transfer it without retaking the driving test. You will usually need to pass a written test about your new state's traffic laws. Check your new state's DMV website for the specific requirements for transferring a license.

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

This varies by state. Some states will not issue a license if you owe money to the court or DMV. Others will issue the license but may suspend it if you do not pay. Contact your state's DMV or local court to find out whether you have any outstanding fines that could affect your license.

What if the DMV office near me has very long wait times?

Try visiting a different DMV office in your area if one exists, or ask whether you can make an appointment instead of walking in. Some states have multiple offices in the same city with different wait times. You can also call ahead to ask how busy the office is before you go.