Your first important step toward becoming a licensed driver in 2024: how to get a permit, how long it's valid for, and other permit requirements.
A driver's permit (also known as a learner's permit, learner's license, or provisional license) is a restricted license that first-time drivers must obtain before they are allowed to get a full driver's license. The driver's permit allows you to drive a motor vehicle (with certain restrictions) before you have passed your driving test. The age at which you must apply for a driver's permit varies by state. Learn more
| Age to apply: | 15 (varies by state) |
|---|---|
| How to apply: | Provide proof of identity (like Real ID or other ID card), pay the appropriate fee, take a vision test, and pass a written knowledge exam (requirements vary by state). |
| Can you drive on your own: | No, you must have a fully licensed adult driver in the car with you. |
You are required to log a certain number of hours of driving under supervision. Some states also require you to take formal driver training (Driver's Ed) classes.
Pass the Driving (Road) TestOnce you've logged the required number of supervised driving hours, you can take your behind-the-wheel (road) test.
Drive with RestrictionsOnce you've passed your road test, you'll be able to drive under certain restrictions until you reach maturity.
All Restrictions Removed Once You Reach Maturity "Maturity" always includes adulthood, but in some states it can also include other things. 2. The Basics: What, How, Where, and WhyCongratulations! If you've reached the legal age in your state to obtain a learner's permit (LP), you're on your way to becoming a licensed driver. It's an exciting milestone in anyone's life. We've answered some questions about the LP to help get you behind the wheel as smoothly as possible.
If you've never driven before, probably you. Why? Because most states make LPs mandatory if you are under a certain age, and some states make them mandatory for new drivers of all ages. The minimum age for a learner's permit is typically between 14 and 18, depending on your state's requirements.
If you have never driven a vehicle before, most states will require you to obtain a learner's permit before you can obtain a full driver's license. You may hear learner's permits called by different names, but it's not worth getting confused about - they mostly all mean the same thing. Other names may be a driver's permit, learner's license, provisional license, and provisional instruction permit. We'll just call it a learner's permit (LP) to keep it simple.
The learner's permit places various restrictions on your driving. Most importantly, you must be supervised by a licensed adult driver at all times while you drive.
You may have heard that the process can be stressful. Or maybe other friends of yours have said it was a breeze. Regardless of how you feel, you may have a few questions about the permit exam and what to expect. Keep in mind that it doesn't have to be a stressful thing, especially when you know what to expect. To help you out, we've answered common questions about LPs and the written test. As you are reading, remember that every answer really depends on the state you live in. So, understand your state's rules as best you can and use this as a guide. You can check out Driving-Tests.org to learn the ins and outs of your state's permitting requirements.
