You can get a Missouri driver's license at any of the state's 45 Driver License offices, or at certain license offices run by third-party vendors in some counties
Missouri's Driver License offices are spread across the state, with at least one in every county. The official state offices are run by the Missouri Department of Revenue and are the most common place to go. However, some counties also have third-party license offices — private businesses authorized by the state to issue licenses — which may have shorter wait times or more convenient hours.
You do not need an appointment at most Missouri offices, though some locations now offer optional appointment scheduling through the state's website. Walk-in service is available at all locations during posted business hours. The time you spend waiting varies widely depending on the office, the time of day, and how busy that location is on the day you visit.
Key Takeaways
- Missouri has 45 official Driver License offices run by the Department of Revenue, plus additional third-party offices in some counties.
- You can walk in without an appointment at any location, though some offices now let you schedule a time slot online to reduce wait time.
- You will need to bring specific documents: a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, proof of Missouri residency, and a completed process form.
- Third-party license offices may have shorter waits and extended hours, but they charge a small service fee on top of the state fee.
- The state's online office locator tool shows hours, location, and whether each office accepts appointments.
Finding the nearest Missouri Driver License office
The Missouri Department of Revenue maintains an online office locator at dmv.mo.gov. Enter your county or city, and the tool will show you every official state office and third-party office in your area, along with their hours and phone numbers. This is the fastest way to find the location closest to you and to check whether that office is currently open.
If you do not have internet access, you can call the Missouri Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407 to ask for the address and hours of the nearest office. The phone line is available during business hours and staff can also tell you whether a particular location is experiencing longer-than-usual wait times on that day.
What documents you need to bring
Missouri requires four categories of documents when you get a driver's license. First, you need proof of identity: a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or passport card. Second, you need proof of your Social Security number: your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, or a tax return showing your number. Third, you need proof of Missouri residency: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days, with your name and current address on it.
Fourth, you need a completed process for a Driver License or Noncommercial ID — this is form DL-43. You can fill it out at home before you go, or you can fill it out at the office. The form is available on the Missouri Department of Revenue website, or the office will provide one when you arrive.
Bring the originals of all documents, not copies. The office staff will examine them and may make copies for your file. If any of your documents are not in English, bring an official English translation along with the original.
The difference between state offices and third-party offices
Official Missouri Driver License offices are staffed by state employees and are free to use beyond the standard license fee. Third-party offices are private businesses — often insurance agencies or tax preparation services — that the state has authorized to issue licenses. Both types issue the same license and follow the same rules.
The main advantage of a third-party office is convenience: they may have longer hours, locations in more neighborhoods, or shorter wait times. The trade-off is that they charge an additional service fee, usually between $5 and $15, on top of the state's license fee. Some third-party offices also offer services like passport photos or notary services in the same visit, which can save you a trip elsewhere.
You can use either type of office for a standard driver's license. However, if you need a commercial driver's license (CDL) or a hazmat endorsement, you must go to an official state Driver License office — third-party vendors are not authorized to issue those.
How to schedule an appointment (where available)
Not all Missouri offices offer appointments yet, but the state is expanding the system. To see whether your nearest office accepts appointments, check the office locator on dmv.mo.gov or call the office directly. If appointments are available, you can schedule one through the state's website or by calling the specific office.
Scheduling an appointment typically reduces your wait time to 15 to 30 minutes, though you may still wait longer if the office is running behind. Even if you have an appointment, bring all your documents with you — the office will not hold your appointment if you are missing required paperwork.
What to expect when you arrive
When you walk in, you will usually take a number or check in at a desk. A staff member will review your documents to make sure you have brought everything required. If anything is missing, they will tell you what you need to come back with. If your documents are complete, you will fill out your process (if you have not already), have your photo taken, and pay the license fee.
The photo is taken at the office using a digital camera. You cannot bring your own photo. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in, and avoid wearing a hat or sunglasses. The photo will appear on your license, so it will be used for identification purposes for several years.
After you pay, you will receive a temporary paper license that is valid when ready. Your permanent plastic license card will arrive in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is legal to use while you wait for the card to arrive.
License fees and payment methods
Missouri's driver's license fee depends on how long you want the license to be valid. A four-year license costs $25, and an eight-year license costs $50. You can choose which length you prefer when you explore. The fee is the same at all official state offices.
Most offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may accept checks, but this varies by location. If you are going to a third-party office, ask when you call whether they accept your preferred payment method, since policies differ between vendors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Missouri driver's license if I do not have a birth certificate?
Yes. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use a U.S. passport or passport card as your proof of identity instead. If you do not have either, you can request a certified copy of your birth certificate from the vital records office in the state where you were born, which usually takes one to two weeks.
What if I do not have a Social Security card?
You do not need the card itself. You can bring a W-2 form, tax return, or other document that shows your Social Security number. If you do not have any of these, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration, though this takes several weeks.
How long does it take to get a Missouri driver's license?
The office visit itself usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the location is. Your temporary license is valid when ready. Your permanent plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you schedule an appointment, your office visit may be shorter.
Can I renew my license at a third-party office?
Yes. Third-party offices can handle both new licenses and renewals. The process and fees are the same as at a state office, except for the additional service fee charged by the third-party vendor.
What if I moved to Missouri from another state?
You will need a Missouri driver's license within 30 days of moving. Bring the same documents listed above: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of Missouri residency, and the completed process form. You do not need to bring your old out-of-state license, though you can if you want to.