What You Need to Get a Driver's License

The documents and steps required to obtain a driver's license

To get a driver's license, you need to provide proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and pass both a written test and a driving test. The exact documents accepted vary by state, but all states require you to show up in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office or equivalent agency. Most states also charge a fee, which ranges from roughly $20 to $150 depending on the state and license type.

The process typically takes several weeks from start to finish if you are getting your first license. You will need to study the state's driver manual, schedule a written test appointment, pass that test, then schedule and pass a road test with an examiner. Some states allow you to take the written test on the same day you explore; others require a separate appointment. After you pass both tests, the physical license arrives by mail within one to three weeks.

Key Takeaways

You must bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of where you live (utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return) to your DMV appointment.
All states require you to pass a written knowledge test covering traffic laws and road signs, and a practical driving test with an examiner in your vehicle.
The fee for a driver's license varies by state but typically falls between $20 and $150, and some states charge extra for expedited processing.
If you already hold a valid license from another state, most states will waive or shorten the written test requirement, though you still must pass the road test.

Proof of identity documents the DMV will accept

Your primary form of identification must be an original document or certified copy. A passport (U.S. or foreign) is accepted in all states. A birth certificate issued by a state vital records office is accepted everywhere, though some states require it to be certified. A state ID card from another state works in most places. A military ID or military dependent ID is accepted nationwide.

Documents that do not work as primary identity include a Social Security card, a school ID, a work badge, or a photocopy of any of the above. If you do not have a passport or birth certificate, you can obtain one before your DMV visit. Birth certificates come from the vital records office in the state where you were born, and passports come from the U.S. State Department. Both take several weeks to arrive by mail.

Proof of residency and Social Security requirements

For proof of residency, the DMV accepts documents that show your name and current address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) dated within the last 60 days works in all states. A lease or mortgage statement also works. Some states accept a bank statement, a government benefit letter, or a piece of mail from a government agency. A few states accept a letter from your employer or school on official letterhead.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you do not, a tax return, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form from your employer will work. Some states accept a benefit statement from Social Security itself. You do not need to have a Social Security number to get a driver's license in most states, but you will need to provide one if you have been issued one.

The written test: what to study and how to prepare

Every state publishes a free driver manual that covers traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You can read the manual from your state's DMV website or pick up a printed copy at any DMV office. The written test typically has 40 to 50 questions and covers the material in that manual. You must usually score at least 80 percent to pass, though some states require 70 percent.

Most states allow you to take the written test on a computer at the DMV office. A few still use paper tests. The test is offered in multiple languages in most states. 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. Many people pass on the first attempt if they study the manual for a few hours before the test.

The road test: scheduling, what the examiner checks, and common reasons for failure

After you pass the written test, you schedule a separate appointment for the road test. This appointment may be weeks away depending on how busy your local DMV is. During the road test, an examiner sits in your vehicle while you drive for 10 to 20 minutes. The examiner watches how you handle basic maneuvers like starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and merging. They also check that you follow traffic laws and respond correctly to traffic signals.

Common reasons people fail the road test include hitting the curb while parking, rolling through a stop sign, failing to signal, driving too fast or too slow, or hitting the examiner's brake pedal (which means the examiner had to take control because they felt unsafe). You are also expected to know where the windshield wipers, headlights, and turn signals are located and to use them correctly. If you fail, you can retake the test, usually within a few days or weeks, though you may have to pay the test fee again.

Differences between first-time licenses, renewals, and licenses from other states

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another state, you do not need to take the written test in your new state. You will still need to pass a road test in most states, though a few waive it if your previous license was valid for a certain number of years. You must still bring proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. The fee for a license transfer is usually lower than the fee for a first-time license.

If you are renewing an expired license, the process is simpler. Many states allow you to renew by mail or online without visiting the DMV, and you do not retake the written or road test. However, if your license has been expired for more than a certain period (often one to five years depending on the state), you may have to retake the tests as if you were a new driver. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you can renew online or must visit in person.

Fees, processing times, and what happens after you pass

Driver's license fees vary widely by state. A standard license typically costs between $20 and $80 for a first-time issuance. Some states charge extra for a Real ID-compliant license (which is required for federal air travel and entry to federal buildings). A Real ID license usually costs $10 to $30 more than a standard license. A few states offer expedited processing for an additional fee, which can reduce the wait time from three weeks to a few days.

After you pass both the written and road tests, the DMV issues you a temporary paper license that you can use when ready. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within one to three weeks. During this time, you can legally drive using the temporary license. If your permanent license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact your state's DMV to check the status. Most states allow you to reorder a replacement if the original is lost or damaged.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test without a Social Security number?

Most states do not require a Social Security number to get a driver's license, though you must provide one if you have been issued one. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring documentation showing that you have applied for one or that you are not may be able to access. Check your state's DMV website for the specific rule in your state.

What if I fail the road test?

You can retake the road test, usually within a few days or weeks. You will likely have to pay the test fee again. Many people pass on their second or third attempt. The examiner will tell you what you did wrong so you can practice those specific skills before retrying.

Do I need to bring my own vehicle for the road test?

Yes, you must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. Some DMV offices allow you to use a vehicle belonging to a family member or friend, but the vehicle must still meet these requirements.

How long does a driver's license stay valid?

Driver's licenses are typically valid for four to eight years depending on your state and age. Your license will show the expiration date. You can renew before it expires, and many states allow online or mail renewal for people whose licenses are not yet expired.

What if I moved to a new state after getting my license?

You should get a license in your new state within a certain timeframe, usually 30 to 90 days after moving. Bring your old license, proof of residency in the new state, and proof of identity. You will not need to retake the written test in most states, but you may need to pass a road test.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.