Wyoming driver's license requirements depend on your age and whether you're a new resident

To get a Wyoming driver's license, you need to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The specific documents you bring depend on whether you're under 16, between 16 and 18, or 18 and older. Wyoming also requires all applicants to pass a written test and a driving test, though the written test is waived for some renewals. If you're moving to Wyoming from another state, you can transfer your license within a certain window before it expires.

The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) issues all driver's licenses. You explore in person at a WYDOT office in your county — there is no online process or mail-in option for a new license. The process typically takes one visit if you bring the right documents, though the office may ask you to return for the driving test on a later date depending on how busy they are.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of Wyoming residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number to any WYDOT office.
  • Applicants under 18 must pass a written knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test; applicants 18 and older must pass both tests as well unless renewing an existing Wyoming license.
  • If you hold a valid driver's license from another state, you can transfer it to Wyoming without retaking the written test, though you may still need to pass a driving test.
  • Wyoming charges different fees for licenses based on age and validity period; a standard license for someone 21 and older costs less than a license for someone under 21.
  • You must be at least 14 years old to get a learner's permit and at least 16 to get a full driver's license in Wyoming.

Documents you must bring to a WYDOT office

Proof of identity is your first requirement. WYDOT accepts a U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, passport card, or state ID from another state. If you use a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or embossed seal — a photocopy or electronic copy will not work. A passport or passport card is the fastest option because it serves as both identity and citizenship proof in one document.

Proof of Wyoming residency comes next. WYDOT accepts a current utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit union statement, or a property tax bill. The document must show your name and a Wyoming address, and it must be dated within the last 60 days. A lease or mortgage can be older if it is still active. If you are homeless or living with someone else, you can use a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the utility bill, stating that you live there.

You must also provide your Social Security number. WYDOT will verify it with the Social Security Administration. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though WYDOT can look it up if you know the number and can provide other identity documents. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a Wyoming driver's license.

Age-based requirements and testing rules

Applicants under 16 cannot get a full driver's license in Wyoming. Instead, you can get a learner's permit at age 14. A learner's permit allows you to drive only with a licensed adult 21 or older in the front seat. To get a learner's permit, you must pass the written knowledge test and bring the same identity and residency documents as you would for a full license.

At age 16, you can take the behind-the-wheel driving test and get a full license. Wyoming requires you to hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can test for a full license, though some counties may have longer waiting periods. The driving test is conducted by a WYDOT examiner and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving practices. You must use your own vehicle for the test, and it must be registered and insured.

Applicants between 16 and 18 must pass both the written test and the driving test. If you are 18 or older and have never held a Wyoming license, you must also pass both tests. The written test covers Wyoming traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules. You can study using the Wyoming Driver's Manual, which WYDOT provides free at every office and online. The manual is the only official study guide for the test.

If you already hold a valid driver's license from another state and you are moving to Wyoming, you can transfer it without retaking the written test. However, WYDOT may still require you to pass a driving test, depending on your age and the state your license came from. Contact your local WYDOT office to ask whether a driving test is required for your situation.

How to renew or replace a Wyoming license

Wyoming driver's licenses expire on your birthday. Standard licenses for people 21 and older are valid for eight years. Licenses for people under 21 are valid for four years. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires.

If you are renewing a Wyoming license and it has not been suspended or revoked, you can renew by mail or online through the WYDOT website. You do not need to retake the written test or driving test for a standard renewal. However, if your license has been expired for more than one year, you will need to explore in person and may need to retake the tests.

If you need to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license, you can do so in person at any WYDOT office. Bring your identity and residency documents. You do not need to retake the tests. WYDOT will issue a replacement license with the same expiration date as your original license.

Transferring a license from another state

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and you move to Wyoming, you have until your out-of-state license expires to transfer it. You do not need to transfer when ready, but once your out-of-state license expires, you must get a Wyoming license to drive legally in the state.

To transfer your license, bring your out-of-state license, proof of Wyoming residency, and proof of your Social Security number to a WYDOT office. You will not need to retake the written test. WYDOT may require you to pass a driving test depending on your age and which state your license came from. Ask at your local office whether a test is required before you go.

Your new Wyoming license will have a new expiration date based on Wyoming's renewal schedule, not your old license's expiration date. If your out-of-state license is expired, you cannot transfer it — you will need to explore for a new license as if you had never held one, which means taking both the written and driving tests.

Fees and processing time

Wyoming charges different fees depending on your age and the validity period of your license. A standard eight-year license for someone 21 and older costs less than a four-year license for someone under 21. Replacement licenses cost the same as a new license. Learner's permits have a separate, lower fee. WYDOT offices accept cash, check, and card payments.

Processing time depends on how busy your local WYDOT office is. If you bring all required documents and pass the written test on your first visit, you may be able to schedule a driving test for the same day or within a few days. Some offices have longer wait times, especially in larger cities. Call your local WYDOT office before you go to ask about current wait times and whether you should schedule an appointment.

If you explore by mail for a renewal, processing typically takes two to three weeks from the date WYDOT receives your process. If you explore online, your new license will be mailed to you within the same timeframe.

Medical and legal restrictions on driving

Wyoming requires you to report certain medical conditions that affect your ability to drive. If you have a condition that causes sudden loss of consciousness, severe vision loss, or significant cognitive impairment, you must tell WYDOT when you explore or renew. WYDOT may require you to provide a medical report from your doctor before issuing or renewing your license.

If you have been convicted of a DUI, reckless driving, or certain other traffic offenses, your license may be suspended or revoked. You cannot get a new license until the suspension or revocation period ends. If your license is suspended, you may be able to get a restricted license that allows you to drive to work or school, but you must request this through the court that handled your case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Wyoming driver's license if I don't have a Social Security number?

No. Wyoming requires a Social Security number to issue a driver's license. If you do not have one, you must explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license. This process typically takes two to four weeks.

What if I don't have a certified birth certificate?

You can use a U.S. passport, passport card, or state ID from another state instead. If you need a birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the state or county where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs between $10 and $30.

Do I have to take the driving test if I'm transferring my license from another state?

It depends on your age and which state your license came from. WYDOT waives the written test for transfers but may require a driving test. Call your local WYDOT office to ask whether a test is required before you explore.

How long does it take to get a Wyoming driver's license after I pass the tests?

If you pass both tests in person, WYDOT will issue your license the same day or mail it to you within a few days. If you explore by mail for a renewal, your new license will arrive within two to three weeks.

Can I use an electronic copy of my birth certificate or utility bill?

No. WYDOT requires original documents or certified copies for identity and residency proof. Electronic copies, screenshots, and photocopies are not accepted. Bring the original document or a certified copy to your WYDOT office.