What you need to know before you start

A Guam learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take the road test for a full license. You get it from the Department of Revenue and Taxation's Driver Licensing Section, located in Hagatna. The process involves passing a written test on traffic laws and road signs, providing documents that prove who you are and where you live, and paying a fee. Most people complete the written test on the same day they explore.

You must be at least 16 years old to get a learner's permit in Guam. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to sign your process. The permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued, and you can renew it if you need more practice time before taking the road test.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a government-issued photo ID, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to the Driver Licensing Section in Hagatna.
  • The written test covers Guam traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules, and you can study using the Guam Driver's Manual available online or in print.
  • You must pass the written test to receive your permit on the same visit, and the permit costs a fee that varies depending on how long you want it to be valid.
  • Once you have your permit, you can only drive when a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old is sitting next to you in the front seat.
  • Your learner's permit is valid for one year, and you can take the road test for a full license once you have held it for at least 30 days.

Documents you must bring to the Driver Licensing Section

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, or a valid passport. If you do not have either, you can bring a government-issued photo ID such as a military ID or a school ID with your photo. The Driver Licensing Section needs to see proof that you are who you say you are.

You also need proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a document from your employer that shows your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can explore for one at the Social Security Administration office in Guam before you go to the Driver Licensing Section.

Bring a document that shows your current address in Guam. A utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. If someone else's name is on the document, bring a letter from that person saying you live there, along with a copy of their ID.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you. They will need to sign your process form and bring their own ID.

How to prepare for the written test

The written test has questions about Guam traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to pass with a score of at least 70 percent. The test is given in English, and you can request an interpreter if you need one — call the Driver Licensing Section ahead of time to arrange this.

Study the Guam Driver's Manual, which is free and available online on the Department of Revenue and Taxation website. You can also pick up a printed copy at the Driver Licensing Section. The manual covers everything that will be on the test, including speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking rules, and what different road signs mean.

Take practice tests if you can find them online or ask the Driver Licensing Section if they have sample questions. Many people find it helpful to read through the manual twice and focus on the sections that seem hardest the first time through.

What happens on the day you explore

Go to the Driver Licensing Section in Hagatna with all your documents. Bring the originals, not copies, unless the section specifically asks for copies. Arrive early in the day if you can, because the office can get busy in the afternoon.

Tell the staff member at the counter that you want to get a learner's permit. They will give you an process form to fill out. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian fills out the section for their signature. The staff member will check your documents and take a photo for your permit.

You will then take the written test on a computer or on paper, depending on what the Driver Licensing Section offers that day. You have a set amount of time to finish — usually 30 minutes to an hour. Once you finish, the staff member will score it right away.

If you pass, you pay the fee and receive your learner's permit the same day. If you do not pass, you can usually take the test again after a waiting period. Ask the staff member how long you need to wait and when you can come back.

Fees and how long your permit lasts

The cost of a learner's permit in Guam varies. A one-year permit costs one amount, and a three-year permit costs more. Ask the Driver Licensing Section what the current fees are, because they can change. You pay in cash or by card, depending on what the office accepts.

Your permit is valid for the length of time you paid for — either one year or three years from the date it is issued. You can renew it before it expires if you need more time to practice. To renew, go back to the Driver Licensing Section with your current permit and pay the renewal fee.

Rules for driving with your learner's permit

You can only drive when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is sitting in the front passenger seat next to you. That person must have a valid driver's license. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only passengers your own age in the car.

You must follow all traffic laws, including speed limits and traffic signals. Some places have additional rules for learner's permit holders, such as restrictions on driving at night or on certain roads. Check the back of your permit or ask the Driver Licensing Section what rules explore to you.

You must hold your learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can take the road test for a full license. During that time, practice with your supervising driver as much as you can. The more hours you practice, the more ready you will be for the road test.

What to do if you lose your permit or need to replace it

If your learner's permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, go back to the Driver Licensing Section and ask for a replacement. Bring your ID and proof of address, just as you did when you first applied. You will pay a replacement fee, which is usually less than the cost of a new permit.

If your address changes while you have your permit, you should update it at the Driver Licensing Section. Bring your new proof of address and your current permit. Some changes can be made without getting a new card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test more than once if I fail?

Yes. If you do not pass on your first try, you can take the test again after waiting a certain number of days. The Driver Licensing Section will tell you when you can return. Most people pass on their second or third attempt after studying the manual more carefully.

What if I am not fluent in English?

You can request an interpreter or a test in another language if one is available. Call the Driver Licensing Section before you go to arrange this. Some offices can provide tests in Chamorro or other languages, but you may need to give them advance notice.

Do I need to take a driving test to get my learner's permit?

No. The learner's permit only requires the written test about traffic laws and signs. You take a separate road test later, after you have held your permit for at least 30 days and practiced driving with a licensed adult.

Can I drive on the highway with my learner's permit?

Check the rules printed on the back of your permit or ask the Driver Licensing Section. Some learner's permits have restrictions on highway driving or driving at certain times of day. These rules vary, so it is important to know what applies to yours.

How do I know when I am ready to take the road test?

You must wait at least 30 days after getting your permit. Beyond that, you are ready when you feel confident driving in different conditions — in traffic, at different times of day, and on different types of roads. Your supervising driver can help you decide when you have practiced enough.