Experience mandatory.
Make sure to get experience driving in different conditions. If you don’t think you’re ready, you probably aren’t.
Know what to expect.
There are several hoops to jump through before you can get your license. Find out what they are and what you need to do to complete them.
Don’t get discouraged.
Just because you don’t pass all the tests the first time around, that doesn’t make you a bad driver. Ask the examiner what you should work on.
Drive safely.
Don’t act irresponsibly when behind the wheel, whether you’ve gotten your license or are still learning. Avoid talking on your cell phone, changing CDs or eating while driving.
Handle peer pressure.
Don’t worry if you’re the only one of your friends who hasn’t gotten your license. Being a good and safe driver is more important than anything your peers might say.
Do not drink and drive.
| Proof of Residency |
|---|
| Utility bill |
| Bank statement |
| Rental contract |
| Employer verification |
| Parent or guardian's non-expired driver's license |
| Personal Identification |
| Birth certificate |
| Certified copy of court records (adoption, name or sex change) |
| Certified naturalization documentation |
| Immigration ID card |
| Valid passport |
| Military identification card issued by the US armed forces |
| Proof of citizenship |
| Birth certificate |
| Passport |
| Certificate of citizenship |
| Certificate of naturalization |
How to Apply
When you go to the DMV to apply for a driver’s license, you must:
- Provide proof of residency.
- Be 16 years old for Classes D and M; 18 years old for Classes A, B, and C; and 15 years old for Class C instructional permit. (See License Types and Restrictions for more information on license classes)
- Provide some acceptable form of personal identification that includes full name, month, day and year of birth.
- Provide proof of citizenship.
- Successfully complete a driver examination.
- Be fingerprinted.
- Show you have completed a course on alcohol and drugs, if under 18 years old.
- Show proof that you are either currently enrolled in school or have received a GED, high school diploma, or completed high school, if under 18 years old.
- Complete an approved driver education course in a licensed private or public driver training school and in addition, received a cumulative total of at least 20 hours of other supervised driving experience including at least six hours at night OR complete a cumulative total of at least 40 hours of supervised driving experience including at least six hours at night.
(The parent or guardian of and applicant under 18 or the applicant if over the age of 18 must sign a verification form attesting to the above requirement.) - Provide your social security number, but do not need to provide your original social security card.
