Who can get a driver's permit and what the requirements are

A driver's permit — also called a learner's permit or learner's license — lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. The basic requirements are the same across all states: you must be at least 15 or 16 years old (depending on your state), pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, and pass a vision screening. Some states also require you to complete a driver education course before you can test.

Age thresholds vary by state. Most states allow you to get a permit at 15, but a handful require you to be 16. A few states let you start at 14 if you complete an approved driver education program. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website to confirm the minimum age where you live — this is the first thing to verify before you do anything else.

You will also need to bring documents to the DMV office when you test. These typically include a birth certificate or passport, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address (like a utility bill or lease). Some states accept a school ID or report card as proof of address if you live with a parent. Bring whatever your state's DMV lists on its website; showing up without the right documents means a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 or 16 years old to get a driver's permit, depending on which state you live in.
  • All states require you to pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, and a vision screening.
  • Some states require completion of a driver education course before you can take the permit test.
  • You will need to bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address to the DMV office.
  • The written test covers state-specific traffic laws, so studying your state's driver manual is essential before you test.

The written test and what it covers

The written test is multiple choice and covers traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. Most states give you the test on a computer at the DMV office, though some still use paper. The test usually has 30 to 50 questions, and you need to answer 70 to 80 percent correctly to pass — the exact passing score varies by state.

Every state publishes a free driver manual online that covers everything on the test. This manual is the only study material you actually need. It walks through speed limits, parking rules, what different road signs mean, how to handle intersections, and what to do if you see a police officer. Read it carefully — the test pulls directly from this material, and the manual is written specifically to prepare you for the questions you will see.

You can take the test as many times as you need to pass. If you fail, you can usually retake it the same day or within a few days, depending on your state's rules. There is typically a small fee each time you test, so studying the manual thoroughly before your first attempt saves you money.

Vision screening requirements

Every state requires a vision screening as part of the permit process. The DMV will test your eyesight at the office when you arrive to take the written test. The screening checks whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely — usually you need to read a chart from a certain distance away.

If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you to the DMV. You will take the vision test while wearing them if you normally wear them while driving. If you fail the vision screening, you will not be able to get your permit until your vision meets the state's standard. In that case, you would need to see an eye doctor, get a prescription or correction, and then return to the DMV to retake the screening.

Driver education course requirements

About half of all states require you to complete a driver education course before you can take the permit test. These courses teach the same material as the driver manual but in a classroom or online format, usually over several weeks. The course typically includes both classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training with a professional instructor.

If your state requires driver education, you will need to finish the course and get a certificate of completion before the DMV will let you test for your permit. If your state does not require it, taking a course is still optional — some families choose to do it anyway because the behind-the-wheel instruction with a professional can be valuable before you start practicing with a parent or guardian.

Driver education courses cost money, usually between $300 and $800 depending on the program and your state. Some high schools offer free or low-cost courses to their students. Check with your school's guidance office or your state's DMV website to see what programs are available in your area.

What happens after you pass the test

Once you pass the written test and vision screening, the DMV will issue your permit on the spot or mail it to you within a few days, depending on your state. Your permit will have your photo, your name, your date of birth, and restrictions that explore to you — for example, you may only drive during daylight hours, or you may only drive with a parent or guardian in the car.

These restrictions are called permit restrictions, and they are different from state to state. Some states have very few restrictions; others are strict about when and where you can drive. Read the back of your permit carefully so you understand what you are and are not allowed to do. Breaking these rules can result in your permit being suspended or revoked.

Your permit is valid for a set period — usually one to three years, depending on your state. During this time, you practice driving with a licensed adult before you take the road test for your full driver's license. Once you have held your permit for the required amount of time and feel ready, you can schedule a road test with the DMV.

Fees and how to pay

Getting a driver's permit costs money, but the amount varies widely by state. Some states charge $20 to $30 for a permit; others charge $75 or more. A few states include the permit fee in the cost of your first driver's license, so you pay once for both. Check your state's DMV website to find out the exact fee where you live.

Most DMV offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some also accept checks. Call ahead or check the website of your local DMV office to confirm what payment methods they take, so you know what to bring when you go to test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a permit if I have not finished high school?

Yes. A high school diploma or GED is not required to get a driver's permit. You only need to meet your state's age requirement, pass the written test, pass the vision screening, and bring the required documents. Some states require driver education, which you can complete whether or not you are in school.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it. Most states let you test again the same day or within a few days. There is usually a small fee for each attempt. Study the driver manual more carefully before your next test — focus on the areas where you struggled the first time.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a permit?

Most states require proof of your Social Security number, but you do not need the card itself — a tax return, W-2, or letter from Social Security works. A few states have alternatives if you do not have a Social Security number; check your state's DMV website for details.

Can I get a permit if I do not have a birth certificate?

A birth certificate is the most common form of ID, but some states accept a passport, passport card, or state ID instead. Check your state's DMV website for the full list of acceptable documents before you go to the office.

How long do I have to hold a permit before I can take the road test?

This varies by state. Some states require you to hold a permit for six months; others require one year or more. Check your state's DMV website to find out how long you must wait in your state before you are allowed to schedule a road test.