You go to your state's Department of Motor Vehicles, usually called the DMV
Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is the only place that issues driver's licenses. Some states call it the Secretary of State's office or the Division of Motor Vehicles, but the function is the same. You cannot get a license from a private company, a bank, or any other organization — only from your state's motor vehicle agency.
The DMV has physical office locations in most counties. You will visit one of these offices in person to take your written test, vision test, and photo. Some states now let you schedule an appointment online before you go; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Either way, you show up at the office, not online.
The office you visit must be in the state where you plan to hold your license. If you move to a new state, you will need to get a license from that state's DMV, not renew your old one. Each state runs its own system and does not recognize licenses issued by other states as equivalent to a local license.
Key Takeaways
- Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles is the only agency that issues driver's licenses, and you must visit a physical office in person.
- You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number — the exact documents vary by state.
- Most DMVs require you to pass a written test about traffic laws, a vision test, and a photo before you receive your license.
- You can find your local DMV office and often schedule an appointment through your state's official DMV website.
- Processing times vary widely by location and season, but most new licenses are ready within two to four weeks.
Finding the DMV office nearest you
Start by going to your state's official DMV website. Search "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] Department of Motor Vehicles" to find the correct site. The official website will have a location finder tool where you enter your city or zip code and see all nearby offices, their hours, and their phone numbers.
Call ahead before you go. DMV offices can have long wait times, and some locations are busier than others. The staff can tell you how busy it is that day and whether you should come back another time. Many states now let you book an appointment online through the same website — if your state offers this, use it. An appointment usually cuts your wait time from several hours to under an hour.
If you cannot find your state's official website or the location finder is not working, call your state's main DMV phone line. The number is listed on the official website. Do not call a private company that claims to help with DMV services — they will charge you a fee to do what you can do for free on the state website.
What documents you need to bring
Every state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The specific documents that count as proof vary by state. For example, some states accept a passport as proof of identity; others require a birth certificate. Some accept a utility bill as proof of residency; others require a lease or mortgage statement.
Your state's DMV website lists exactly which documents are acceptable for each category. Do not guess — bring the documents listed on the official site. Bringing the wrong documents will send you home to get the right ones, and you will have to come back another day.
Bring the originals, not copies. The DMV staff will look at your documents in person and will not accept photocopies or digital images. If a document is in a language other than English, bring the original plus an official English translation.
The written test and vision test
At the DMV office, you will take a written test about traffic laws and road signs. The test is usually multiple choice and covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, and what different road signs mean. Most states let you study a handbook before you go — this handbook is free and is available on the DMV website or in the office itself. You can read it, print it, or read it online.
You will also take a vision test. The DMV staff will use a machine to check whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to wear corrective lenses while driving, or you may need to see an eye doctor and come back with a form signed by the doctor.
The written test usually has a passing score of 70 to 80 percent, depending on your state. If you fail, most states let you retake it the same day or within a few days. You may have to pay a small fee to retake it.
Your photo and the license itself
The DMV will take your photo at the office. Wear something you do not mind being photographed in — this photo will be on your license for several years. You cannot bring a photo from home; the DMV takes the photo themselves using their camera.
After you pass the tests and your photo is taken, the DMV will print your temporary license on the spot or give you a paper receipt that serves as a temporary license. Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address you provided. Most states mail licenses within two to four weeks, though some take longer during busy seasons.
You can drive legally using the temporary license or receipt while you wait for the permanent one to arrive. Do not lose it — you will need it if you are stopped by police before the permanent license arrives.
Renewing or replacing a license you already have
If you already have a license and it is expiring, you can often renew it by mail or online without visiting the DMV office. Your state's DMV website will tell you whether you are may be able to access to renew by mail or online. Licenses renewed this way usually arrive within two to three weeks.
If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to visit the DMV office in person to report it and get a replacement. Bring the same documents you brought for your original license, plus a police report if your license was stolen. A replacement license usually costs less than a new license and arrives within the same timeframe.
What to expect on the day you visit
Arrive early, even if you have an appointment. Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost. Have your Social Security number memorized or written down. The DMV staff will ask you questions about your address, your name, and your driving history, and they will verify your documents.
The entire process — from checking in to getting your temporary license — usually takes 30 minutes to two hours, depending on how busy the office is and whether you pass all the tests on the first try. If you fail the written test, add another 15 to 30 minutes if you retake it the same day.
Bring a pen in case you need to fill out forms by hand. Some DMVs have pens available, but not all. Bring cash or a debit card if you need to pay fees — not all DMVs accept all payment methods, so check the website first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a license if I do not have a Social Security number?
Most states require a Social Security number to issue a driver's license. If you do not have one, contact your state's DMV directly to ask what documents you can bring instead. Some states accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or other federal identification numbers. The DMV website or phone line can tell you what your state accepts.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the written test, usually the same day or within a few days. Most states charge a small fee to retake it — typically $5 to $15. You can study the handbook again before you retake it. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, though some states may require you to wait a certain number of days between attempts.
Do I need to take a driving test to get my license?
Most states require a driving test where an examiner rides with you and watches you drive. However, some states waive the driving test if you pass the written and vision tests and meet other requirements. Check your state's DMV website to see whether a driving test is required. If it is, you will schedule it separately after you pass the written test.
How long does it take to get my license after I pass the tests?
You will get a temporary license or receipt the same day you pass the tests. Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to you within two to four weeks in most states. Some states take longer during busy times of year. You can drive legally with the temporary license while you wait.
Can someone else pick up my license for me?
No. You must be present at the DMV office to take the tests and have your photo taken. However, once your permanent license is mailed to you, someone else can pick it up from your mailbox if you are not home. If you need to pick it up in person at the DMV office instead of having it mailed, ask the staff when you visit — some states offer this option.