A Class E license is Missouri's standard driver license for operating a regular passenger car
A Class E license is what most people in Missouri get when they pass their driving test. It lets you drive a passenger vehicle — a car, pickup truck, or van — on public roads. It does not let you drive a commercial truck, bus, motorcycle, or any vehicle that requires a commercial license. If you are learning to drive or renewing your current license, Class E is almost certainly the one you need.
Missouri issues Class E licenses to drivers age 16 and older who pass the written test, vision screening, and driving test. The license is valid for six years from the date you receive it, unless you are under 21, in which case it expires when you turn 21 and must be renewed.
Key Takeaways
- A Class E license allows you to drive a standard passenger vehicle but not commercial trucks, buses, or motorcycles.
- You must be at least 16 years old and pass a written test, vision screening, and driving test to receive one.
- Class E licenses are valid for six years, or until age 21 if you are under 21 when issued.
- If you need to drive a commercial vehicle or motorcycle, you will need a different license class instead.
What vehicles you can and cannot drive with Class E
With a Class E license, you can drive any passenger car, pickup truck, or van that is not used for commercial purposes. This includes most vehicles you would rent from a car rental company or borrow from a friend. You can also tow a trailer if the trailer weighs less than 3,000 pounds and the combined weight of your vehicle and trailer does not exceed 11,000 pounds.
You cannot drive a commercial truck (Class A or B), a bus (Class P), a motorcycle (Class M), or a moped. If your job requires you to drive any of these vehicles, you will need to obtain the appropriate license class through additional testing and training. You also cannot drive a vehicle carrying hazardous materials, even if you own the vehicle.
How to get a Class E license if you are a new driver
If you are 16 or 17, Missouri requires you to hold a learner's permit for at least three months before you can test for a Class E license. You get the permit by passing a written test at your local Missouri Department of Revenue office. During those three months, you must practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old sitting in the front passenger seat.
After three months, you can schedule a driving test at a Missouri Department of Revenue office. The test includes a vision screening, a written test (if you have not taken one recently), and a behind-the-wheel driving test. Once you pass, you receive your Class E license on the spot.
If you are 18 or older and have never had a license, you can skip the learner's permit step. You can go directly to a Department of Revenue office, pass the written and vision tests, and then schedule a driving test. The process is the same after that.
How to renew your Class E license
You can renew your Class E license up to one year before it expires. Missouri offers three ways to renew: online through the Missouri Department of Revenue website, by mail, or in person at a Department of Revenue office.
Online renewal is the fastest option if you are renewing a standard Class E license and your vision and medical status have not changed. You will need your current license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The renewal takes effect when ready after you pay, though your physical license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.
If you are renewing in person or by mail, you will need to bring or send your current license, proof of residency, and payment. In-person renewal at a Department of Revenue office takes about 30 minutes. Mail renewal takes longer — typically two to three weeks from the time the office receives your process.
Restrictions that may explore to your Class E license
Depending on your age and driving history, Missouri may place restrictions on your Class E license. These appear as codes on the back of your license card.
If you are under 21, you may have restrictions on when you can drive and who can be in the car with you. For example, you may not be allowed to drive between midnight and 5 a.m., or you may be limited to driving with family members or a licensed adult. These restrictions are part of Missouri's Graduated Driver License system and are designed to reduce accidents among teenage drivers.
If you have medical conditions or wear corrective lenses, you may have restrictions requiring you to wear glasses or contacts while driving, or limiting you to daytime driving only. These restrictions are noted on your license and must be followed.
The difference between Class E and other Missouri license classes
Missouri has several license classes, each for a different type of vehicle. Class E is the most common because it covers regular passenger vehicles. Class M is for motorcycles and mopeds. Class A and B are commercial licenses for trucks and buses.
Class P is for school bus drivers and other bus operators. Class F is for farm vehicles. If you only need to drive a regular car, truck, or van for personal use, Class E is the only license you need. If your job or personal situation requires you to drive a different type of vehicle, you will need to test for and obtain the appropriate class.
What happens if your Class E license is suspended or revoked
Your Class E license can be suspended or revoked if you accumulate too many traffic violations, drive under the influence, or fail to pay traffic fines or child support. A suspension is temporary — your license is taken away for a set period, after which you can get it back. A revocation is permanent — you must wait a set time period before you can retest for a new license.
If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot legally drive any vehicle on public roads. Driving with a suspended or revoked license is a criminal offense in Missouri and can result in fines, jail time, and a longer suspension or revocation period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive a rental car with my Class E license?
Yes, as long as the rental car is a standard passenger vehicle — a car, SUV, or pickup truck. Rental companies will not rent you a commercial truck or specialty vehicle without the appropriate license class. You must also meet the rental company's age requirements, which are often 21 or 25.
What do the codes on the back of my Class E license mean?
The codes on the back of your license describe restrictions or special conditions. Common codes include corrective lenses required, daylight driving only, or restrictions on when you can drive if you are under 21. Your Department of Revenue office can explain what any specific code means.
Do I need to take a driving test again if I renew my Class E license?
No. If you renew online or by mail, you do not take a test. You only need to renew your license every six years (or when you turn 21 if you were under 21 when it was issued). You would only retake a driving test if your license was revoked or if you are explore for a different license class.
Can I drive a motorcycle with a Class E license?
No. Motorcycles and mopeds require a Class M license. You cannot legally operate a motorcycle with only a Class E license, even if you are an experienced rider. You must test for and obtain a Class M license separately.
What is the difference between a Class E license and a learner's permit?
A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car, but you cannot drive alone. A Class E license lets you drive by yourself and carry passengers. You must hold a permit for at least three months before you can test for a Class E license if you are under 18.