What documents and information Oregon requires

Oregon requires you to bring proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address when you go to the DMV to get a driver's license. You will also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test about traffic laws. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian's signature on your process.

The state accepts a passport, birth certificate, or tribal ID as proof of identity. For your Social Security number, you can bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. For your address, Oregon accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a current address, you can use a homeless services shelter letter or a mail forwarding receipt from the post office.

You will also need to fill out an process for Oregon Driver License or Permit (Form DL 43). The DMV provides this form at the office, or you can read it from the Oregon DMV website before you go. Bring the completed form with you, along with your documents.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or tribal ID), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days).
  • You will take a vision test and a written test about Oregon traffic laws at the DMV office.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person at the DMV.
  • The Oregon DMV charges a fee for a driver's license; the amount depends on how long you want the license to be valid.

Age requirements and restrictions

You must be at least 16 years old to get a driver's license in Oregon. If you are 16 or 17, you will first get a Learner's Permit, which allows you to drive only with a licensed adult in the car. You must hold the permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test for a full license.

If you are under 18, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You also cannot use your phone while driving, even if it is hands-free. These restrictions stay in place until you turn 18.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 35 questions about Oregon traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 28 questions correctly to pass. The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, and what different road signs mean. Oregon provides a free study guide called the Oregon Driver Manual, which you can read online or pick up at any DMV office.

You can take the test in English or in one of several other languages, including Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, and Chinese. If you need the test read aloud to you, you can request that at the DMV. You are allowed to take the test three times; if you fail all three times, you must wait seven days before you can try again.

The vision test and medical requirements

At the DMV, you will take a vision screening that checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. You must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without glasses or contacts. If you wear glasses or contacts to drive, you must wear them during the test and during all driving.

Oregon does not require a doctor's note for most people, but if you have certain medical conditions — such as seizures, severe hearing loss, or loss of consciousness — you may need to provide medical documentation. The DMV will tell you if you need this. If you take medications that affect your ability to drive, tell the DMV staff when you arrive.

Driving test requirements

After you pass the written test, you will schedule a driving test with an examiner. The test takes about 30 minutes and covers basic driving skills like starting the car, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors.

You can take the driving test in the vehicle you plan to use for the test, or you can use a vehicle from a driving school. If you fail the driving test, you can take it again after waiting at least one week. You are allowed to take the test as many times as you need.

Fees and how long a license lasts

Oregon charges different fees depending on how long you want your license to be valid. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. The DMV website lists the current fees, which change occasionally. You can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the DMV office.

Once you receive your license, it is valid for the number of years you chose when you applied. You will need to renew it before it expires. Oregon sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires, and you can renew online, by mail, or in person at the DMV.

What to do if you are renewing or replacing a license

If your license has expired and you want to renew it, you can do so online through the Oregon DMV website if your license expired less than five years ago and you have not had any major changes to your information. If your license expired more than five years ago, or if you need to update your address or name, you will need to go to the DMV office in person.

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any DMV office. Bring proof of identity and your current address, just as you would for a new license. The replacement fee is lower than the fee for a new license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Real ID license in Oregon?

Yes. A Real ID is a federal standard that allows you to use your driver's license to board domestic flights and enter federal buildings. Oregon offers Real ID licenses, but they require one additional document — proof of your legal presence in the United States, such as a passport or birth certificate. The fee is slightly higher than a standard license.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Oregon allows you to get a driver's license without a Social Security number if you sign a statement saying you do not have one. You will need to bring additional proof of identity instead. Talk to the DMV staff about what documents you can bring.

Do I need to take the written test again if I already have a license from another state?

If you are moving to Oregon and have a valid driver's license from another state, you can transfer it without taking the written test. You will still need to pass the vision test and bring proof of your Oregon address. Bring your current out-of-state license and your address documents to the DMV.

How do I schedule my driving test?

After you pass the written test at the DMV, the staff will help you schedule your driving test appointment. You can also schedule online through the Oregon DMV website or by calling your local DMV office. Appointments fill up quickly, especially in busy seasons, so schedule as soon as you pass the written test.