You take the Missouri permit test at a Missouri Department of Revenue office, not online or at a third-party location

The written permit test in Missouri is administered only by the Department of Revenue (DOR) at their driver examination locations across the state. You cannot take it online, at a school, or through a private testing service. You must go in person to one of these offices, bring the required documents, pay the test fee, and complete the exam on site.

The test itself is a multiple-choice written exam covering Missouri traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It has 25 questions, and you need to answer at least 20 correctly to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages, including English and Spanish.

Key Takeaways

  • Missouri Department of Revenue driver examination offices are the only places to take the permit test, and you must appear in person.
  • You need to bring a completed process form (DL 44), proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
  • The test fee varies by location but is typically under $20; some offices accept cash only, so call ahead to confirm payment methods.
  • Most offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no appointment system, so arriving early in the morning reduces wait times.
  • If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day at most locations, though you may need to pay the fee again.

Finding a Department of Revenue office near you

Missouri has driver examination offices in most counties and major cities. The easiest way to find the one closest to you is to visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website and use their office locator tool, which shows addresses, hours, and phone numbers for each location.

Before you go, call the office directly. Staff can tell you current wait times, whether they are accepting walk-ins that day, and what payment methods they accept. Some smaller offices have limited hours or occasionally close for staff training, so a quick call prevents a wasted trip.

What documents to bring

You must bring several documents to take the test. Have your completed DL 44 form (the Missouri process for a driver permit or license), which you can print from the DOR website or pick up at the office. You also need proof of identity—a birth certificate, passport, or state ID card—and proof of residency, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address.

Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. If you do not have either, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration or the IRS explaining why. You will also need to bring a parent or guardian if you are under 16, and that adult must have their own ID and proof of residency.

Test fees and payment methods

The permit test fee is set by Missouri but varies slightly by office location. Most offices charge between $10 and $20 for the written test. Payment methods differ: some offices accept cash, check, and debit card, while others accept cash only. Call ahead to confirm what your local office takes, because you will not be able to take the test if you cannot pay.

If you fail and retake the test the same day, you typically pay the fee again. If you pass the written test but do not schedule a driving test within a certain timeframe, you may need to retake the written exam; the DOR office can tell you the important date for your specific permit.

How the test works on the day you go

Arrive early, especially on weekday mornings, because most offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no appointments. You will check in at the front desk, provide your documents, and pay the test fee. Staff will verify your information and give you instructions for the exam.

The test is administered on a computer at most locations, though some smaller offices may still use paper tests. You will have a set amount of time to complete the 25 questions—usually 30 to 45 minutes. You can review your answers before submitting. Once you submit, you receive your score when ready, and staff will tell you whether you passed or failed.

What happens if you pass or fail

If you pass, you receive your permit that day or within a few days by mail, depending on the office. Your permit is valid for a set period—typically one to three years depending on your age—and allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult in the car.

If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at most locations, though you will pay the fee again. You do not have to wait days or weeks between attempts. Many people take the test a second time when ready after reviewing the questions they missed. If you fail multiple times, consider studying a practice test more thoroughly before your next attempt.

Preparing before you go to the office

The Missouri Department of Revenue publishes a free study guide that covers all the topics on the permit test. You can read it from their website or pick up a printed copy at any DOR office. The guide includes sample questions and explanations of traffic laws and road signs.

Practice tests are also available online through the DOR website and through third-party sites. Taking several practice tests before you go to the office significantly increases your chances of passing on your first attempt. Focus on the areas where you score lowest on the practice tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the permit test at a different office than the one in my county?

Yes. You can take the test at any Missouri Department of Revenue driver examination office, regardless of which county you live in. However, your permit will be issued by the office where you test, so choose one that is convenient for you.

What if I fail the test—how long do I have to wait before I can retake it?

At most Missouri offices, you can retake the test the same day if you fail. You do not have to wait a week or a month. However, you will pay the test fee again, and you should spend time reviewing the material before your second attempt.

Do I need an appointment to take the permit test?

No. Missouri DOR offices do not use an appointment system for the permit test. You arrive during business hours and wait your turn. Arriving early in the morning typically means shorter waits than afternoon visits.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration or the IRS explaining why you do not have one. You will also need your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you have one. Call your local DOR office to confirm what documentation they need before you go.

Can someone else take the permit test for me?

No. You must take the test yourself in person. The test is designed to verify that you understand Missouri traffic laws and road signs. A staff member will verify your identity before you begin.