The documents and steps required to obtain a driver license

To get a driver license, you will need to provide proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of your Social Security number, and pass both a written test and a driving test. The exact documents accepted vary by state, but most require a birth certificate or passport for identity, a recent utility bill or lease for residency, and your Social Security card or a tax return for your number. You will also need to visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency in person, pay a fee (typically between $20 and $100 depending on your state), and schedule appointments for the written and road tests.

The process usually takes between one and four weeks from your first visit to receiving your license in the mail, though some states offer same-day licenses at certain locations. If you are renewing rather than obtaining your first license, the requirements are simpler — you may be able to renew by mail or online without retaking tests, depending on your state and how long it has been since your last renewal.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government-issued ID (passport or birth certificate), proof you live in your state (utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number to the DMV.
  • Most states require you to pass a written test on traffic laws and a practical driving test before you receive your license.
  • The fee for a new driver license ranges from $20 to $100 depending on your state, and the entire process typically takes one to four weeks.
  • If you are renewing an existing license, you may not need to retake tests or visit in person, depending on your state's rules and how long since your last renewal.
  • Each state sets its own rules about which documents count as proof of identity and residency, so check your state DMV website before you visit.

What counts as proof of identity

Your state DMV will accept a government-issued photo ID as your primary proof of identity. A U.S. passport, passport card, or birth certificate issued by your state are the most common documents. If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, some states accept a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Certificate of U.S. Citizenship.

If you were born outside the United States and do not have a U.S. birth certificate, you will need to bring your foreign birth certificate along with proof that you are a lawful resident — such as a green card, visa, or employment authorization document. Some states also accept a school ID, military ID, or tribal ID as a secondary form of identity, but these alone are not enough; you will still need one of the primary documents listed above.

Proof of residency and Social Security number

To prove you live in your state, bring a recent document with your name and current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works. Some states also accept a government check, tax return, or insurance policy. The document must show your full name and your current address — a PO box does not count as proof of residency.

For your Social Security number, you can bring your Social Security card, a tax return, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. If you do not have any of these, some states allow you to sign an affidavit (a sworn statement) stating that you do not have a Social Security number, though this is less common. Check your state DMV website to see which documents they accept, because the list varies.

The written test and what it covers

The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices specific to your state. Most states allow you to take the test on a computer at the DMV, and you typically have 30 to 40 minutes to complete it. The test usually has between 30 and 50 questions, and you must answer at least 70 to 80 percent correctly to pass — the exact passing score varies by state.

You can study for the test using your state's official driver manual, which is free and available on the DMV website. Many states also offer practice tests online so you can see the types of questions you will encounter. If you fail the written test, you can usually retake it the same day or within a few days, though some states charge a small fee for each retake.

The driving test and road requirements

The driving test, also called the road test or behind-the-wheel test, requires you to demonstrate that you can safely operate a vehicle. You will drive a car (usually your own, though some DMVs have test vehicles) while an examiner sits in the passenger seat and watches your driving. The test typically lasts 20 to 40 minutes and includes tasks like starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and driving on different types of roads.

Before you can take the driving test, most states require you to hold a learner's permit for a set period — usually between 30 days and six months, depending on your age and state. During this time, you must practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. Some states also require you to log a minimum number of practice hours (often 50 to 100 hours) before you can take the test. If you fail the driving test, you can usually retake it after waiting a few days or weeks, depending on your state.

Age requirements and restrictions for new drivers

The minimum age to get a driver license varies by state. Most states allow you to get a learner's permit at 15 or 16 and a full driver license at 16 or 17. Some states have a graduated licensing system, which means new drivers under a certain age (usually 18 or 21) face restrictions such as limits on nighttime driving, limits on the number of passengers they can carry, or a requirement to use a hands-free phone device.

If you are under 18, you may need parental or guardian consent to get a license, and some states require a parent or guardian to sign documents at the DMV. If you are 18 or older, you do not need parental consent. Immigrants and non-citizens can get a driver license in all 50 states; you do not need to be a U.S. citizen, though you must prove your legal presence in the country.

Fees and how long the process takes

The cost of a new driver license ranges from about $20 in some states to over $100 in others. Most states charge between $40 and $80. The fee covers the cost of the license itself and may include the written test and driving test, though some states charge separate fees for each test. If you need to retake a test, you may pay an additional fee per attempt.

From the day you first visit the DMV to the day you receive your license in the mail, the process usually takes one to four weeks. The written test can often be taken on your first visit, but the driving test may require a separate appointment scheduled weeks in advance, depending on how busy your local DMV is. Some states offer expedited processing for an additional fee, which can reduce the wait time to a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver 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, passport card, Consular Report of Birth Abroad, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of U.S. Citizenship. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your foreign birth certificate along with proof of legal residency such as a green card or visa. Check your state DMV website for the complete list of acceptable documents.

What happens if I fail the written test or driving test?

You can retake either test after a short waiting period, usually a few days to a week. Some states charge a small fee for each retake. Most states allow you to retake the written test the same day you fail it. For the driving test, you will need to schedule a new appointment, which may take several weeks depending on how busy your DMV is.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get a driver license?

No. All 50 states issue driver licenses to non-citizens who can prove legal presence in the country, such as with a green card, visa, or work authorization document. You will still need to provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number (or an affidavit if you do not have one) just like any other applicant.

Can I renew my driver license online or by mail?

Many states allow online or mail renewal if your license is not expired and you meet certain conditions, such as being over 21 and having no medical restrictions. However, if your license has been expired for more than a certain period (often one to five years), you may need to retake the written and driving tests. Check your state DMV website to see if you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal.

How long does a driver license last before I need to renew it?

Driver licenses are typically valid for four to eight years, depending on your state and age. Some states issue shorter licenses to drivers under 21. You will receive a notice in the mail before your license expires, telling you when and how to renew. Renewing before your license expires is easier than renewing after it has expired.