What you need to do to legally drive
To drive legally, you need a state-issued driver's license or permit. The process has two stages: a learner's permit (which lets you drive with a licensed adult in the car) and a full license (which lets you drive alone). You cannot skip the permit stage — every state requires it, though the length of time you hold it varies.
The steps are the same everywhere: pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test with an examiner, and pay a fee. The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and what different road markings mean. The driving test is usually 15 to 20 minutes long and happens on public roads with an examiner in the passenger seat.
Your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or equivalent office (called the Secretary of State in some states, the Registry of Motor Vehicles in others) handles both tests. You can find your state's office online by searching "[your state] DMV" or "[your state] driver's license".
Key Takeaways
- You must get a learner's permit first by passing a written test on traffic laws and road signs, then wait the required time before taking your driving test.
- The driving test is administered by your state's DMV or equivalent office and takes place on public roads with an examiner present.
- You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to your DMV appointment.
- Once you pass both tests and pay the fee, you receive a license valid for four to eight years depending on your state and age.
- If you fail either test, you can retake it after a waiting period, usually one to seven days.
Getting your learner's permit
Start by visiting your state's DMV office or website to find out what documents you need. Most states require proof of identity (a birth certificate or passport), proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number. Some states also require a parent or guardian signature if you are under 18.
Once you have your documents, go to the DMV office and tell them you want to take the written test for a learner's permit. You will sit at a computer or fill out a paper form with 30 to 50 questions about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. The passing score is usually 70 to 80 percent. If you fail, you can retake it after a waiting period — typically one to seven days, depending on your state.
After you pass, you receive your learner's permit. This document lets you drive on public roads as long as a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old sits in the front passenger seat. You must follow all traffic laws while driving with a permit, and some states restrict when you can drive (no driving after 10 p.m., for example) or how many passengers you can have.
How long to wait before taking the driving test
Every state sets a minimum time you must hold your learner's permit before you can take the driving test. This waiting period ranges from two weeks to twelve months, depending on your state and your age. Younger drivers (usually under 18) have longer waiting periods than drivers 18 and older.
During this time, you should practice driving with a licensed adult. There is no set number of hours required in most states, but many recommend 50 to 100 hours of practice, with at least 10 hours at night. The more you practice, the more confident you will be during the test.
You can find your state's specific waiting period by searching "[your state] learner's permit requirements" or calling your local DMV office. Some states also offer driver's education courses, which may shorten the waiting period or lower your insurance rates later.
Taking the driving test
When you are ready, schedule your driving test through your state's DMV. You can usually book online or by phone. Bring your learner's permit, proof of identity, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition — the examiner will check the lights, brakes, and windshield wipers before you start.
The test itself lasts 15 to 20 minutes and takes place on public roads near the DMV office. The examiner will ask you to perform basic tasks: starting the car, turning, parking, backing up, and stopping smoothly. They are watching for safe driving habits — checking mirrors, using turn signals, maintaining speed, and following traffic laws. Minor mistakes (like hesitating at a stop sign) usually do not cause you to fail, but major ones (like hitting a curb or running a red light) do.
If you pass, you receive your full driver's license on the spot or by mail within a few days. If you fail, you can retake the test after a waiting period, usually one to seven days. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.
Getting your first vehicle
Once you have your license, you can buy or lease a car. If you are buying used, inspect the vehicle in person, check its maintenance history, and have a mechanic look it over before you pay. If you are buying new, compare prices at multiple dealerships and read reviews of the model you want.
You will need to register the vehicle with your state's DMV and buy insurance before you can legally drive it on public roads. Registration costs vary by state and vehicle type, usually between $50 and $300 per year. Insurance is required by law in every state; the cost depends on your age, driving history, the vehicle, and the coverage level you choose.
If you cannot afford to buy a car outright, you can finance one through a bank, credit union, or dealership. You will need a down payment (usually 10 to 20 percent of the price) and a credit history or a co-signer. Monthly payments typically range from $200 to $600 depending on the vehicle price and loan length.
Insurance and registration requirements
Car insurance is mandatory in all 50 states. The minimum coverage required varies by state, but most require liability insurance, which covers damage you cause to other people's property or injuries you cause to other people. Some states also require collision and comprehensive coverage if you are financing the vehicle.
To register your vehicle, bring your proof of ownership (the bill of sale or title), proof of insurance, and proof of residency to your state's DMV office. Registration is usually valid for one to three years. You will receive license plates and a registration certificate, both of which must be in the vehicle when you drive.
Insurance rates for new drivers are higher than for experienced drivers because you are statistically more likely to have an accident. Shopping around at multiple insurance companies can lower your rate. Some insurers offer discounts for good grades (if you are a student), completing a defensive driving course, or bundling car insurance with other policies.
What to do if you fail the test
Failing either the written test or the driving test is common and does not prevent you from trying again. Most states let you retake the test after a waiting period of one to seven days. You will pay the test fee again, usually $10 to $50.
If you fail the written test, review the material in your state's driver's manual (available free online or at the DMV office) and focus on the topics you missed. If you fail the driving test, ask the examiner what you did wrong and practice those specific skills with a licensed driver before you retake it.
Some states offer practice tests online or through their DMV website. Using these tools before your real test can improve your score. You can also take a driver's education course, which teaches the same material and may give you more confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum age to get a driver's license?
Most states let you get a learner's permit at 14 or 15 and a full license at 16 or 17. Some states have different ages for different types of licenses. Check your state's DMV website for the exact age requirement where you live.
Can I take the written test online?
Some states offer online written tests, but most require you to take it in person at a DMV office. A few states let you take it at an approved testing center instead of the DMV. Check your state's website to see which option is available to you.
Do I need to take a driver's education course?
Driver's education is not required in most states, but it can shorten your waiting period before the driving test and may lower your insurance rates. If you are under 18, some states require it or offer a discount if you complete it. Check your state's requirements.
What happens if I move to a different state?
Your out-of-state license is valid in any state you visit or move to. If you move permanently, you can usually convert your old license to a new one without retaking the tests. Bring your old license and proof of residency to your new state's DMV office.
How much does it cost to get a driver's license?
The cost varies by state. Learner's permit fees range from $10 to $50, and driving test fees range from $10 to $75. The license itself costs $20 to $100 depending on how long it is valid. Some states charge extra for rush processing or duplicate copies.