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 requires a full license. To get one, you visit your local DMV office, bring specific documents, pass a written test about traffic laws and road signs, and pay a fee. The whole process usually takes one visit, though some states let you start online.
The exact documents and fees vary by state. Some states require a birth certificate and proof of address; others accept a passport or tribal ID instead. A few states let you take the written test online before you go to the DMV, which can shorten your visit. The written test itself is the same in every state — it covers the rules of the road and what road signs mean — but the number of questions and passing score differ.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of address (like a utility bill or lease), and a Social Security number or ITIN to your DMV visit.
- The written test covers traffic laws and road signs and is offered in multiple languages in most states; you study using your state's driver's manual, which is free online.
- Permit fees range from roughly $20 to $50 depending on your state and how long the permit lasts.
- Some states let you take the written test online before your DMV appointment, which can reduce wait time at the office.
- A permit is valid for one to eight years depending on your state, and you must renew it if it expires before you pass your road test for a full license.
Documents to bring to the DMV
You need proof of identity, proof of address, and your Social Security number or ITIN. For identity, bring a birth certificate, passport, or tribal ID — your state DMV website lists which documents it accepts. If you were born outside the United States, bring your birth certificate and a document showing you are a lawful resident or citizen, such as a green card, visa, or naturalization papers.
For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement in your name. A cell phone bill or credit card statement usually does not count. If you live with a parent or guardian and are not on any household bills, some states let a parent bring a notarized letter confirming your address. Check your state DMV website before you go — address rules vary.
Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number, such as a tax return or W-2. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN letter from the IRS. A few states also require a thumbprint or digital photo at the DMV, so arrive prepared to have one taken.
How the written test works
The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. Most states give you a multiple-choice test with 30 to 50 questions; you must answer 70 to 80 percent correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and in other languages — check your state DMV website to see which languages are available at your local office.
You study using your state's driver's manual, which is free and available online from your state DMV website. Read it before you go to the DMV. Some states also offer practice tests online so you can see the format and types of questions. You are allowed to take the test more than once if you fail — most states let you retake it the same day or within a few days, though a few charge a small fee for each attempt.
A few states, including California and Florida, let you take the written test online before your DMV appointment. If your state offers this, you can complete it at home and bring your test result to the DMV, which can shorten your visit. Check your state DMV website to see if this option is available.
Fees and how long a permit lasts
Permit fees range from about $20 to $50, depending on your state and how long the permit is valid. Some states charge less for a permit that lasts one year and more for one that lasts five years. A few states charge extra if you want to renew your permit before it expires, or if you need a replacement card.
Most states accept cash, debit card, or credit card at the DMV. Some DMV offices also accept checks. Call your local DMV office before you go if you are unsure which payment methods they take.
A permit is usually valid for one to eight years depending on your state. If your permit expires before you pass your road test and get a full license, you must renew it. Renewal usually costs less than getting a new permit and can often be done online or by mail in many states.
What to expect at your DMV appointment
Arrive early — DMV offices often have long waits, and some states limit the number of people they see each day. Bring all your documents in a folder so you do not lose anything. When you check in, tell the staff member you are there to get a driver's permit.
A DMV employee will review your documents, take your photo and thumbprint if your state requires it, and answer any questions about the test. Then you will go to a testing station and take the written test on a computer or paper form. The test usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will get your result right away.
If you pass, you will pay the fee and receive your permit card before you leave. If you fail, ask the staff member when you can retake it — most states let you try again within a few days. Keep your permit card with you whenever you drive, even during practice sessions.
Age requirements and restrictions by state
Most states issue permits to people age 14 or 15, though a few allow permits at age 13 for farm work or hardship cases. A few states do not issue permits at all — they move directly from no license to a full license after you pass both a written and road test. Check your state DMV website to see the minimum age in your state.
Some states restrict where and when you can drive with a permit. Common restrictions include no driving alone, no driving at night (usually between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.), and no passengers under a certain age. A few states require you to hold a permit for a set amount of time — such as six months — before you can take the road test for a full license. Read your permit card and your state's driver's manual to understand your restrictions.
What happens after you get your permit
With a permit, you can practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 18 or 21 years old, depending on your state. The licensed adult must sit in the front passenger seat and be able to exercise control of the vehicle if needed. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive for commercial purposes such as delivery or rideshare.
Use your permit time to practice in different conditions — residential streets, highways, night driving, and bad weather — so you are ready for your road test. Most states require you to hold a permit for a certain amount of time before you can take the road test. Some states also require a certain number of supervised driving hours, such as 50 hours total with at least 10 at night. Check your state DMV website for the specific requirements.
When you feel ready, you can schedule your road test through your state DMV. The road test usually takes 20 to 40 minutes and covers basic driving skills, parking, and following traffic laws. If you pass, you will get your full license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a permit if I do not have a Social Security number?
Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) letter from the IRS instead. Some states also accept other documents that show you are a lawful resident. Check your state DMV website or call your local office to confirm what documents they will take.
What if I fail the written test?
Most states let you retake the test the same day or within a few days at no extra charge, though some charge a small fee for each attempt. Study the driver's manual again before your next try, and consider taking a practice test online if your state offers one. You can retake the test as many times as you need to pass.
Do I have to take the written test in English?
No. Most states offer the written test in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others. Check your state DMV website to see which languages are available at your local office, or call ahead to confirm.
How long does a permit last?
Permit validity ranges from one to eight years depending on your state. Check your permit card or your state DMV website to see when yours expires. If it expires before you pass your road test, you can renew it, usually for a lower fee than a new permit.
Can I drive alone with a permit?
No. A permit allows you to practice driving only with a licensed adult in the car. You cannot drive alone until you pass your road test and receive a full license. Driving alone with a permit is illegal and can result in fines or other penalties.