There are many reasons why you may want or need to get a driver’s license. Whether you’re a teenager who’s getting ready to hit the road for the first time, you’ve just moved to a new state, or you’re an immigrant who’s recently come to the U.S., you may find yourself asking, “What paperwork do I need to get a driver’s license?” While the exact requirements will vary by state, the general process is similar: bring identity, Social Security, and residency documents; pass a vision screening and a knowledge test to get a learner’s permit; complete any required education and supervised practice; and pass a road (skills) test for licensure. Age thresholds and Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) rules vary by state—see summaries from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA).
Getting a learner’s permit
If you’re between the ages of 14 and 16, congratulations! You may be old enough to get your learner’s permit, depending on your state’s regulations. Once you reach the required age, you can start the licensing process by taking the following steps:
- Complete application and fees: You’ll likely have to fill out an application and pay a fee upfront.
- Provide the correct documentation: To get your permit you’ll need to bring proof of identity/date of birth, your Social Security number (or a state-accepted alternative such as an affidavit or ITIN where permitted), and proof of state residency/address. Minors typically need a parent/guardian signature. If you want a REAL ID‑compliant credential for federal identification, be sure to bring the additional documents required under federal rules—check details at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (REAL ID). identification (like your school I.D. card) and proof of residency (you may be able to use a school transcript or have a parent with proof of residency vouch for you, check your licensing department’s requirements).
- Take a written test: The test verifies your knowledge of the rules of the road. Many states offer online or remotely proctored knowledge tests (for example, California and New York) in addition to in‑person testing. There should be practice tests available online at your state’s department of motor vehicles website.
- Take a vision test: This test proves that you can see well enough to drive. If you wear glasses or contact lenses, make sure to wear them on the day and tick that box on your paperwork.
Depending on your state, you may also need to:
- Get parental consent: If you’re under 18, your state may require you to get parental consent before getting your learner’s permit.
- Complete a driver’s education course: Some states require or strongly encourage coursework before testing for your license (e.g., California teens complete classroom driver education and professional behind‑the‑wheel training; Florida requires the 4‑hour TLSAE course for first‑time drivers; New York requires a 5‑hour pre‑licensing course or driver education before the road test; Texas requires driver education plus the Impact Texas Teen Drivers (ITTD) video).
Moving to a new state
If you have a current license from the state where you lived previously, getting one in your new state is usually straightforward. Bring your Social Security card (or proof of SSN), your current license, and proof of your new state residency to the office that issues licenses. Expect to complete an application, have a vision screening, pay a fee, and get a new photo; some states may also require a knowledge test. Check your state’s DMV/DPS site for appointment requirements and document lists.
It’s worth noting that most states set a deadline after you become a resident to transfer your license—commonly 30 days, with examples ranging from 10 to 90 days. For instance: California (10 days), Florida (30 days), New York (30 days), Washington (30 days), Pennsylvania (60 days), Virginia (60 days), Illinois (90 days), and Texas (90 days).
International visitors and recent immigrants
If you’re a recent immigrant to the United States, you can use an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a translation together with your valid non‑U.S. driver license when you first arrive. An IDP is not a stand‑alone license; you must carry it with your foreign license, and you should obtain it from your home country before travel. IDPs are typically valid for up to one year and do not extend the validity of your license. Visitors must follow state rules; for example, California allows visitors 18+ with a valid license to drive but requires new residents to obtain a CA driver license within 10 days (USA.gov; AAA on IDPs; California DMV).
After that, you must get a state-issued license. As of today, 19 states—California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington—plus Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia allow eligible residents to be licensed regardless of immigration status. You’ll need to pass the required tests, show proof of in‑state residence, and carry auto insurance. Illinois upgraded in 2024 to a standard “license for all,” replacing TVDLs. Standard (non‑REAL ID) licenses remain valid for driving but are not acceptable for federal identification; REAL ID enforcement for federal purposes began May 7, 2025 (NCSL; Illinois Secretary of State; DHS REAL ID).
Other states may require you to have a Social Security number to receive a license, while some accept an affidavit or ITIN. In either case, you’ll likely be treated as a new driver. Be prepared to take a vision screening and a knowledge and road test, and note that some states offer online knowledge testing and/or third‑party road testing under specific rules (e.g., California’s online knowledge test; Texas third‑party examiners). If you plan to drive across state lines with a “driving privilege” credential, verify recognition at your destination; Florida does not recognize certain out‑of‑state licenses issued exclusively to undocumented immigrants (FLHSMV).
Replacing a lost or stolen license
If you need to replace a lost or stolen license, you’ll typically start online or visit your department of motor vehicles (DMV) or the local agency that issues licenses. You’ll have to provide proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or Social Security card) and proof of residency. After that, it’s usually a matter of completing a form and paying a fee. Depending on where you live, they may print a new card on the spot or issue a temporary paper/virtual license while your replacement arrives by mail.
If things don’t go as planned
Here’s what to expect in common situations.
What if I fail the written (knowledge) test?
If you fail your written test, don’t worry. Most states let you try again after a short waiting period, though you’ll likely pay the fee each time. It’s best to review your state’s rules and study its driver manual in advance. Many states also offer secure online knowledge testing options (for example, California and New York). Most states have practice tests available online to help you prepare. Driving-tests.org offers free, state-specific tests that can help get you ready for the real thing.
What if I fail the vision test?
If you fail your vision test, you will be given a form to be filled out by a medical professional. It’s likely you’ll need a prescription for glasses. Once the form is completed and your vision is corrected with glasses or contact lenses, you can return to the issuing center to retake your test.
What are the penalties for driving without a license?
Driving without a license is a crime across the United States, but the consequences vary by state. If you have a valid license and have simply forgotten it, the offense is often a lesser misdemeanor or infraction with a fine (e.g., Texas requires you to carry and display your license on demand). If you drive without a valid license—or on a suspended/revoked license—penalties are significantly harsher and can include arrest and jail. Examples: New York’s unlicensed operator law and aggravated unlicensed operation statutes (VTL §509; VTL §511), Texas’s carry/display requirement (Transp. Code §521.025), and California’s license‑required law (Veh. Code §12500).
How can I practice for the written test?
You can practice for your written test by studying the driver’s manual provided by your issuing center and taking practice tests online. Driving-tests.org offers free, state-specific tests that can help get you ready for the real thing.
Next steps to get licensed
- Learn to drive: If you’ve never driven before, you’ll need to learn how to drive with an experienced and fully-licensed driver in the passenger seat. You can do so with a paid instructor through a local driving school or by asking a family member or friend to assist you. Many states require documented supervised practice, typically 30–60 hours, including night driving (for example: California 50 hours, 10 at night; Florida 50/10; New York 50/15; Texas 30/10).
- Get car insurance: No matter whether you plan to buy car insurance online, over the phone, or with a dedicated agent, the secret to getting the best rate is to shop around and collect a few different quotes before you make your final decision. Just be aware that each state has its own requirements for car insurance. Liability insurance is now required in every state except New Hampshire; Virginia ended its uninsured‑motorist fee option in 2024 (Virginia DMV). Premiums have risen sharply nationwide since 2024, so comparison‑shopping matters (BLS CPI for motor vehicle insurance; CEA brief).
- Take the driver test: When you’re ready, you’ll go back and take your on-road driver’s test. Here, you’ll show an examiner what skills you’ve learned and he or she will evaluate your driving before deciding whether or not you’re ready to become a licensed driver. Most states require a road test; some authorize third‑party examiners (e.g., Texas).
