What you need to do to get a driver's permit

A driver's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car before you take your road test. To get one, you visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent agency, pass a written knowledge test about traffic laws and road signs, and provide proof of identity and residency. The whole process usually takes a few hours on the day you go in, though some states let you take the written test online first.

The exact documents you need and the test content vary by state, so you will need to check your state's DMV website before you go. Most states charge a fee between $20 and $50 for a permit, though some waive it for certain age groups.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit your state's DMV office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or tax ID.
  • You will take a written test covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving rules; most states let you take this test on a computer at the DMV office.
  • Your state's DMV website lists exactly which documents count as proof of identity and residency, and this varies widely between states.
  • A permit is usually valid for one to three years, depending on your state, and you can begin supervised driving as soon as you receive it.
  • Some states require you to hold a permit for a minimum number of months or hours before you can take your road test for a full license.

Documents to bring to the DMV

You need three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Proof of identity usually means a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. Proof of residency means a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address on it — it must be recent, usually within the last 60 days.

For your Social Security number or ITIN, bring your Social Security card, a tax return, or a W-2 form. Some states accept a letter from the Social Security Administration instead. Check your state's DMV website before you go, because the exact documents they accept differ. For example, some states accept a school ID as proof of identity; others do not. Some accept a cell phone bill as proof of residency; others require a utility bill specifically.

If you are under 18, you may also need a parent or guardian to sign a consent form at the DMV office. Bring that person with you if your state requires it.

How the written knowledge test works

The written test 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 a few still use paper. The test usually has 30 to 50 questions, and you need to score around 80 percent to pass — your state's DMV website will tell you the exact passing score.

You can study for free using your state's official DMV handbook and practice tests, both available on your state's DMV website. Many states also offer free online practice tests that mimic the real test. You get one or two attempts on the day you visit; if you fail, you usually pay a small fee to retake it, either the same day or on a later visit.

The test is given in English in most states, though some offer it in other languages. Check your state's DMV website to see what languages are available in your area.

What happens after you pass the test

Once you pass the written test, the DMV issues your permit on the spot. You will receive a physical permit card that you must carry whenever you drive. The permit shows your name, photo, address, and the date it expires. In most states, a permit is valid for one to three years.

Your permit comes with restrictions. You must have a licensed adult (usually at least 21 years old) in the front seat with you at all times. Some states restrict when you can drive — for example, no driving between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. — and some limit how many passengers you can have. Read the back of your permit card or your state's DMV website to learn your specific restrictions.

Many states require you to hold a permit for a set amount of time — often three to six months — or log a certain number of supervised driving hours before you can take your road test for a full license. Keep track of your driving hours if your state requires this, because you will need to show proof when you schedule your road test.

Fees and processing time

Most states charge between $20 and $50 for a driver's permit. Some states charge less for applicants under 18 or offer a reduced fee if you are low-income; check your state's DMV website to see if you may have access to. You usually pay at the DMV office when you submit your process.

The permit is issued the same day you pass the test in most states. You walk out with your permit card in hand. A few states mail the permit to you instead, which takes one to two weeks. Your state's DMV website will tell you which process applies to you.

What to do if you fail the written test

If you do not pass on your first try, you can usually retake the test the same day or within a few days. You may have to pay a small retake fee, typically $5 to $10. Most states let you take the test two or three times before you have to wait a set period — often 30 days — before trying again.

If you fail multiple times, spend more time studying the official DMV handbook and taking practice tests. Many people find it helpful to focus on the areas where they scored lowest. Some states offer in-person study sessions or videos on their DMV website.

Renewing or replacing your permit

If your permit expires before you get your full license, you can renew it at the DMV. Renewal usually costs less than the original permit and does not require you to retake the written test. If your permit is lost or damaged, you can get a replacement by visiting the DMV with proof of identity and paying a replacement fee, usually $10 to $20.

Some states let you renew your permit online or by mail. Check your state's DMV website to see if that option is available to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age to get a driver's permit?

Most states allow you to get a permit at age 14 or 15, but this varies. Some states set the minimum at 16. Check your state's DMV website to find the exact age requirement in your state.

Can I take the written test online instead of going to the DMV?

A few states let you take the written test online, but most require you to take it at a DMV office in person. Some states let you study online but require you to take the actual test at the DMV. Check your state's DMV website to see what is available in your state.

Do I need a permit if I am over 18?

Most states require everyone to get a permit before getting a full license, regardless of age. A few states let people over 18 skip the permit and go straight to the road test. Your state's DMV website will tell you whether a permit is required for your age.

How long can I drive with a permit before I have to take the road test?

This varies by state. Some states require you to hold a permit for three to six months; others require you to log a certain number of supervised driving hours, often 50 to 100 hours. A few states have no minimum waiting period. Check your state's DMV website for the requirement in your state.

What happens if I get pulled over while driving with a permit?

You must show your permit, proof of insurance, and the ID of the licensed adult in the car with you. Driving without the required adult, or violating any of the restrictions on your permit, can result in a ticket or suspension of your permit. Follow all the restrictions listed on your permit card.