What you need to do to get a driver's permit
A driver's permit is a document your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) issues that lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. You cannot drive alone with a permit — that is the key difference from a full license. To get one, you visit your local DMV office, pass a written test about traffic laws and road signs, and show proof of identity and residency. The whole process usually takes one visit and costs between $20 and $50, depending on your state.
The permit itself is valid for a set period — typically three to five years — and you can start using it as soon as you receive it. Most states require you to hold a permit for a minimum time (often 6 months to a year) before you can take the road test for a full license. During that time, you are building the supervised driving hours your state requires.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit your local DMV office in person with required documents; you cannot get a permit by mail or online in most states.
- Bring proof of identity (birth certificate, passport, or state ID), proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or tax ID.
- You will take a written test covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules — study your state's driver manual before you go.
- The permit fee ranges from $20 to $50 and is valid for three to five years, though you must hold it for a minimum period before taking your road test.
- Once you have your permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult passenger who is at least 21 years old in most states.
Gather your documents before you visit the DMV
The DMV will not issue a permit without proof of who you are and where you live. Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport, or a state ID card. If you do not have any of these, ask your DMV office which documents they accept — some states allow school IDs, military IDs, or consular documents.
For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. A bill dated within the last 60 days works best. If you live with a parent or guardian and are not on the utility bill, bring a notarized letter from them stating you live there, plus a copy of their ID and a bill showing their address.
You will also need your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Have it memorized or written down — the DMV staff will ask you to provide it. Bring your current phone number and email address as well, since the DMV uses these to contact you about your permit status.
Study the driver manual and take the written test
Every state publishes a driver manual online and in print at the DMV office. read it or pick up a copy before your visit. The manual covers traffic signs, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking laws, and what to do in emergencies. Spend at least a few days reading it — the written test pulls directly from this material.
The written test is usually 30 to 50 multiple-choice questions. You must score at least 70 to 80 percent to pass, depending on your state. The test covers things like what a yellow diamond sign means, when you can turn right on red, and how to handle a skidding car. You take the test on a computer at the DMV office, and you get your score when ready.
If you fail, most states let you retake the test the same day or within a few days at no extra charge. If you pass, the DMV staff will take your photo and issue your permit on the spot. Some states mail it to you within a week instead.
Pay the fee and receive your permit
The permit fee varies by state. Most states charge between $20 and $50 for a permit valid for three to five years. Some states charge less for minors and more for adults. Ask the DMV staff what payment methods they accept — most take cash, debit cards, and credit cards, but some only take cash or checks.
Once you pay and pass the test, you will either walk out with your permit in hand or receive it by mail within one to two weeks. If you get it by mail, the DMV will tell you the expected arrival date. Do not drive until you have the physical permit in your possession — practicing without one is illegal, even with a licensed adult in the car.
Understand the restrictions that come with your permit
A permit is not a license. You can only drive when a licensed adult is sitting next to you in the front seat. In most states, that adult must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driver's license. Some states allow a 19-year-old or even a 18-year-old to supervise, so check your state's rules.
You cannot drive alone, even for a short trip to the store. You cannot drive at night in many states — some ban permit holders from driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m., while others have different hours. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, and in some states you cannot have more than one passenger your own age in the car.
Violating these restrictions can result in a fine, the loss of your permit, or both. Your supervising adult can also be fined if they let you break the rules. Make sure you and the adult driving with you both understand the restrictions before you get behind the wheel.
Meet your state's supervised driving requirements
Most states require you to log a certain number of supervised driving hours before you can take your road test for a full license. These hours range from 30 to 100, depending on your state and your age. Some states require a certain number of night hours as well — often 10 to 15 hours after dark.
Keep a log of your driving hours. Some states provide a form you fill out by hand; others use an online system or a phone app. You will need to show this log when you go to take your road test, so do not lose it. If you cannot show proof of the required hours, the DMV will not let you test.
The hours do not have to be consecutive. You can practice for 30 minutes one day and two hours the next. The goal is to build experience in different weather, traffic, and road conditions before you drive alone. Once you have logged the required hours and held your permit for the minimum time your state requires, you can schedule your road test.
Know what happens if you lose or damage your permit
If your permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, go back to the DMV and ask for a replacement. Bring your ID and proof of residency again. The replacement fee is usually $5 to $15, much less than the original permit fee. The DMV will issue a new permit with the same expiration date as your original one.
If your permit expires before you pass your road test, you can renew it at the DMV. Renewal is usually cheaper than getting a new permit and does not require you to retake the written test. Check your permit's expiration date and plan ahead so you do not run out of time to practice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a permit if I am under 16?
Most states issue permits to people as young as 14 or 15, but the age varies. Some states have a minimum age of 15.5 or 16. Check your state's DMV website to find the minimum age and any other rules for young drivers, such as parental consent requirements.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake it the same day or within a few days at most DMV offices. There is usually no extra fee for a retest. Study the areas where you missed questions and try again. Most people pass on the second attempt.
Do I need a parent or guardian to get a permit?
If you are under 18, most states require a parent or guardian to sign a consent form or be present at the DMV. Check your state's rules before you go. Some states allow online consent; others require an in-person signature.
Can I drive to school with my permit?
Only if a licensed adult is in the car with you. You cannot drive alone to school, even if you have your permit. Once you pass your road test and get your full license, you can drive alone.
How long does it take to get my permit after I pass the test?
If the DMV issues it on the spot, you leave with it the same day. If they mail it, expect it within one to two weeks. Do not drive until you have the physical permit in your hands.