Where to explore for a driver's license in Casper

The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) issues all driver's licenses in the state. In Casper, you go to the WYDOT Driver Services office located at 2020 Cy Avenue, Casper, WY 82604. This is the only place in Casper where you can obtain or renew a driver's license — you cannot do it by mail or online, and no other office in the city handles this service.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and closed on state holidays. You do not need an appointment for most transactions, but WYDOT recommends arriving early in the day because wait times can extend past noon, especially on Thursdays and Fridays. If you want to check current wait times before you go, you can call the Casper office at (307) 777-4800.

Key Takeaways

  • The WYDOT Driver Services office at 2020 Cy Avenue is the only place in Casper to get a driver's license, and you must explore in person.
  • You need a Social Security number, proof of Wyoming residency, proof of identity, and proof of lawful presence in the United States.
  • A standard driver's license costs $20 and is valid for eight years; a Real ID-compliant license costs $30 and is required for federal building entry after May 2025.
  • First-time applicants must pass a written knowledge test and a driving test; renewals do not require either unless your license has been expired for more than three years.
  • Processing takes about 30 minutes to one hour in the office, and your temporary license is valid when ready; the physical card arrives by mail within two weeks.

Documents you need to bring

WYDOT requires four categories of documents. First, proof of Social Security number: bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. A Social Security card is fastest.

Second, proof of Wyoming residency: bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current Casper address. A bill in your name is the standard choice. If you have recently moved to Wyoming and do not yet have a utility bill in your name, you can bring a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead, plus a lease agreement.

Third, proof of identity: bring a passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a previous driver's license. A passport is the fastest option. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy from the state vital records office, not a photocopy.

Fourth, proof of lawful presence in the United States: bring a U.S. passport, a birth certificate, a permanent resident card (green card), an employment authorization document (EAD), a visa, or a military ID. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your passport and visa together. WYDOT will not issue a license without this document.

Cost and license types

A standard Wyoming driver's license costs $20 and is valid for eight years. A Real ID-compliant license costs $30 and is valid for five years. The difference matters: starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID license or a passport to enter a federal building, board a domestic flight, or enter a military base. If you do not have a passport and plan to fly domestically or enter federal buildings after that date, the Real ID license is the better choice despite the higher cost and shorter validity period.

If you are over 65, a standard license costs $10 and a Real ID license costs $15. If you are a military member on active duty, you can renew by mail and do not need to visit the office in person.

The written test and driving test

First-time applicants must pass a written knowledge test and a driving test. The written test covers Wyoming traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Wyoming Driver's Manual, which WYDOT provides free online at the WYDOT website or in print at the Casper office. The test has 25 questions and you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. You get one free retake if you fail; additional retakes cost $5 each.

The driving test is conducted by a WYDOT examiner and lasts about 20 minutes. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will test your ability to start, stop, turn, back up, and park, and will observe your use of mirrors, signals, and speed control. You get one free retake if you fail; additional retakes cost $10 each.

If you are renewing a license that has not been expired for more than three years, you do not take either test. If your license has been expired for more than three years, you must retake both tests.

What happens after you pass

Once you pass both tests (or if you are renewing without tests), WYDOT issues you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. This temporary license is valid for driving when ready and has the same legal weight as a permanent license. Your physical plastic driver's license card is printed and mailed to your Casper address; delivery typically takes 10 to 14 business days. If you do not receive it within three weeks, call the Casper office to report it.

If you need to travel before your card arrives, the temporary license is sufficient. You do not need to return to the office unless there is an error on your temporary license or you need to change information (such as your address or name).

Renewing your license by mail

If your license is not expired and you have not had any violations or suspensions, you can renew by mail without visiting the office. Request a renewal form by calling (307) 777-4800 or visiting the WYDOT website. Mail the completed form, your current license, and the fee to WYDOT. Processing takes about four weeks by mail, so renew at least six weeks before your license expires.

You cannot renew by mail if your license has been expired for more than three years, if you have had a suspension or revocation, or if you need to change your name or address. In those cases, you must visit the Casper office in person.

Changing your name or address

If you have changed your name, you must visit the Casper office in person and bring proof of the name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring the same documents listed above (Social Security, residency, identity, and lawful presence). The fee is $20 for a standard license or $30 for a Real ID license.

If you have moved within Wyoming and need to update your address, you can do so by mail or in person. By mail, send a written request with your current license and the fee. In person, bring your license and proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days). Address changes do not require a new photo or test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Real ID license if I do not have a passport or birth certificate?

Yes. You can use a military ID, a permanent resident card, an employment authorization document, or a visa as proof of identity and lawful presence. Bring whichever of these you have, along with proof of Social Security number and Wyoming residency. The WYDOT office staff can tell you on the phone whether your specific documents will work.

What if I fail the written test or driving test?

You get one free retake for each test. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another day. If you fail the driving test, you must schedule another appointment; call (307) 777-4800 to book. Additional retakes beyond the first free one cost $5 for the written test and $10 for the driving test.

Do I need to take a vision test?

Yes. WYDOT will test your vision at the office as part of the license process. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you will be asked to see an eye doctor and return with a vision correction form before your license is issued.

How long does the whole process take on the day I visit?

From arrival to temporary license, expect 30 minutes to one hour if you pass all tests on the first try. If you fail a test, you may retake it the same day, which adds another 15 to 30 minutes. Arrive early to account for wait times, especially mid-week.

Can I get a license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have lawful presence in the United States. Bring your passport and visa, or an employment authorization document, or a permanent resident card. WYDOT will issue a standard driver's license valid for the duration of your authorized stay. Call the Casper office beforehand to confirm your specific documents are acceptable.