Teen Drivers | DMV.org
Understand how Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) works nationwide, from learner’s permits to full licenses. Select your state to see exact ages, forms, fees, and testing steps you must complete.
Get Started As a Teen Driver:
- Check your state’s minimum age for a learner’s permit (usually 14 1/2–16).
- Complete Driver’s Ed if required (30+ classroom hours in many states) and get parent/guardian consent.
- Pass the knowledge test and vision screening to obtain your learner’s permit.
- Log supervised driving hours and hold your permit for the required period, then pass the road test for a provisional/intermediate license.
Eligibility
- Meet your state’s minimum age for a learner’s permit (commonly 15–16).
- Obtain parent/guardian consent if under 18.
- Provide identity, SSN, and residency documents that meet state standards.
- Pass a vision screening and knowledge test for the learner’s permit.
- Complete Driver’s Ed and/or supervised driving hours as required before the road test.
- Hold the permit for the minimum required time with a clean driving record.
Documents
- Proof of Identity and Date of Birth
- Social Security Number Proof
- Proofs of Residency
- Parent/guardian Consent
- Driver’s Ed/behind-the-wheel Certificates
Fees & Costs
- Fee — $10–$40 Knowledge test and/or permit issuance
- Fee — $20–$60 Road test fee
- Fee — $20–$60 Provisional/intermediate license issuance
- Fee — $20–$60 Full/unrestricted license issuance
- Fee — $10–$35 Duplicate/replacement permit or license
FAQ
What ages do I need to know for permits and licenses?
Most states issue learner’s permits between 15 and 16, intermediate licenses at 16–17, and full licenses at 17–18. Exact ages and holding periods are state-specific—select your state to see precise milestones.
How many supervised driving hours are required?
Common ranges are 30–60 total supervised hours with 6–10 hours at night. Some states also require professional behind-the-wheel lessons. Your log must be signed by a supervising adult or instructor.
Do I need Driver’s Ed?
About half of states require Driver’s Ed for certain ages (often under 18). Typical courses include 30 hours of classroom and 6 hours behind the wheel, though specifics vary.
What restrictions apply to intermediate licenses?
Expect a nighttime driving curfew, limits on passengers (often no peers for the first months), mandatory seat belts for all occupants, and cell phone bans. Violations can extend your restricted period.
Can I use a teen license to fly domestically?
Yes, if it is REAL ID-compliant; since May 7, 2025, REAL ID or a passport is required for TSA screening at airports. Look for a gold or black star in the license’s upper corner.
State contact
Phone: (800) 777-0133
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
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