How to Get Your Learner's Permit
A step-by-step guide to getting your first permit in 2026
Getting your learner's permit is the first step on the road to a full driver's license. The process is straightforward — here's exactly what you need to do, step by step.
Step 1: Meet Age Requirements
The minimum age for a learner's permit varies by state, but most states allow you to apply between ages 15 and 16. Some states offer permits as early as 14 (for farm or hardship permits) while others require you to be 15 or 16.
Common Permit Ages by State
- Age 14: Alaska, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota
- Age 15: Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Michigan, Texas, and many more
- Age 16: Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Pennsylvania
Adults can apply at any age — there's no upper limit.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
You'll need to bring several documents to the DMV. Requirements vary, but typically include:
- Proof of identity — birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card
- Social Security number — your SSN card or a document showing your SSN
- Proof of residency — utility bill, bank statement, or school enrollment document (usually 2 required)
- Parental consent — if you're under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your application
- Application fee — typically $5-$50 depending on your state
Step 3: Study for the Written Test
The written permit test covers safe driving, road rules, traffic signs, and driver's responsibility. You'll need to pass with a score of 70-80% (varies by state).
The best way to study:
- Read your state's driver's handbook (available free online from your DMV)
- Take practice tests to identify weak areas
- Review questions you got wrong and understand why
- Retake practice tests until you consistently score 90%+
Step 4: Pass the Vision Screening
At the DMV, you'll take a quick vision test (usually reading letters on a chart). Most states require at least 20/40 vision in each eye. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them — you can test with corrective lenses, and your permit will note the restriction.
Step 5: Pass the Written Test
The test is multiple choice, taken on a computer at most DMV offices. The number of questions varies by state (typically 20-50). If you fail, most states let you retake it after a short waiting period (1-7 days).
Step 6: Receive Your Learner's Permit
Once you pass, you'll receive your learner's permit — either printed on the spot or mailed to you within a few weeks. Your permit allows you to drive under specific conditions while you practice for your road test.
Step 7: Practice Driving with a Licensed Adult
With your permit, you can practice driving — but only with a licensed adult (usually 21+ years old) in the passenger seat. Many states require a minimum number of practice hours before you can take the road test:
- 40-50 supervised hours is typical (including 10-15 at night)
- You must hold your permit for 6-12 months before testing in most states
- No driving alone, and most states restrict late-night driving for permit holders
What Is Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)?
Most states use a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program for teen drivers. GDL introduces driving privileges in stages to reduce risk:
- Learner's permit — supervised driving only, no passengers (except family)
- Provisional/restricted license — drive alone with limits (no late-night driving, limited teen passengers). See license types.
- Full license — all restrictions lifted (typically at age 18)
GDL programs have been shown to reduce teen crash rates by 20-40%.
Ready to Get Started?
The written test is the step most people worry about — but with the right preparation, you can pass on your first try. DMV Answers has free practice tests for every state covering all four test categories.