Documents You Must Bring

You need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or tax ID. The DMV will not let you test without these three things. Bring the originals — photocopies do not work.

For proof of identity, bring a passport, a state ID, a military ID, or a birth certificate. A school ID or work badge will not be accepted. If you do not have any of these, you will need to get one before you can schedule a permit test.

For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, a lease, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement with your current address on it. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from the DMV itself also works. Do not bring a credit card statement or a phone bill — most DMVs no longer accept these.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring your original passport, state ID, military ID, or birth certificate — photocopies are not accepted.
  • Bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days to prove where you live.
  • Know your Social Security number or tax ID before you arrive, because you will need to enter it on the test process.
  • Bring your learner's permit or instruction permit if you already have one, because some states require it to take the permit test.
  • Leave your phone, notes, and any study materials in your car — the DMV will not let you use them during the test.

Your Learner's Permit or Instruction Permit

Some states require you to hold a learner's permit or instruction permit before you can take the permit test. Other states let you take the test without one. Check your state DMV website to find out which applies to you.

If your state requires a learner's permit first, you will need to get one before your permit test appointment. The process usually takes one visit to the DMV and costs between $10 and $30. Bring the same identity and residency documents you would bring to the permit test.

What Not to Bring

Leave your phone, smartwatch, and any other electronic devices in your car or at home. The DMV will not let you have them in the testing room. If you bring them, you may be asked to leave and reschedule your test.

Do not bring study materials, notes, or flashcards into the testing area. You cannot use them during the test, and having them visible can be treated as an attempt to cheat. Study before you arrive, not in the waiting room.

Do not bring anyone into the testing room with you. The test is individual. A parent, friend, or translator cannot sit with you during the exam, though they can wait in the lobby.

Your Social Security Number or Tax ID

You will need to provide your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) when you register for the permit test. You do not need to bring a card or document — just know the number. Write it down before you leave home if you are worried you will forget it.

If you do not have a Social Security number or tax ID, contact your state DMV before your appointment. Some states have alternative processes for people without a Social Security number, but they vary widely. Do not show up without one and expect the DMV to have a solution on the spot.

Fees and Payment

Bring cash, a debit card, or a credit card to pay the permit test fee. Most DMVs accept all three, but some locations only take cash. Call your local DMV office before you go to confirm what payment methods they accept.

The permit test fee ranges from $10 to $50 depending on your state. Some states charge extra if you fail and need to retake the test. Ask the DMV staff what the total cost will be before you pay.

If You Are Under 18

If you are a minor, bring a parent or legal guardian with you to the DMV. They will need to sign consent forms and may need to show their own ID. Some states require the parent to be present in the office; others only require them to sign paperwork beforehand.

Check your state DMV website to find out whether your parent needs to come with you or whether you can bring signed forms instead. If forms can be signed at home, bring them completed and notarized if your state requires it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my ID or birth certificate?

No. The DMV requires original documents. Photocopies, scans, and photos of documents are not accepted. If you lost your ID, you will need to get a replacement before your permit test appointment.

What if my address on my ID does not match my current address?

Bring both your ID and a separate proof of residency document showing your current address. The residency document (utility bill, lease, or bank statement) is what matters for the DMV's records. Your ID does not have to match.

Do I need to bring my learner's permit to the permit test?

It depends on your state. Some states require you to have a learner's permit before taking the permit test; others do not. Check your state DMV website or call your local office to find out. If your state requires it, bring the permit with you.

What happens if I forget to bring something?

The DMV will not let you test. You will have to reschedule your appointment and come back another day with all required documents. There is usually no fee to reschedule, but you will lose your appointment slot and may have to wait weeks for the next opening.

Can someone else bring my documents if I cannot go to the DMV?

No. You must be present in person with your own original documents. The DMV will not accept documents brought by someone else, and you cannot take the permit test by proxy or mail.