Missouri Permit Guide
Getting your Missouri permit.
Before practicing on public streets, Missouri requires an instruction permit. Here is the straightforward process, and we can help you prepare.
Laws change. These facts were verified with the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR), but always double-check current rules at official links before visiting an office.
The process, step by step
1
Study & pass three tests
Take vision, road signs, and written knowledge tests at a Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) driver examination station.
2
Take your record to the DOR
Bring your signed Driver Examination Record to a Missouri DOR license office.
3
Bring your documents
Bring proof of identity/lawful status, Social Security number, and Missouri residency. A REAL ID permit requires two proofs of address.
4
Pay the fee
The Class F instruction permit costs $10.00 in total. It is valid for 12 months and renewable.
What's good to know
01 Who needs a permit
- Any first-time driver without a valid license from another U.S. state, including adult learners 18 and older.
- The minimum age is 15. There is no maximum age limit.
- Applicants under 18 need a parent or guardian co-signer.
02 Permit driving rules
- Always drive with a qualified licensed driver sitting in the front passenger seat.
- If you're 16 or older, that passenger must be at least 21 years old.
- Everyone inside the vehicle must wear a seat belt.
03 Adults 18+ (most of our students)
- Go straight from permit → practice with our drivers → MSHP driving test → DOR license.
- Driver education classes are not mandatory for applicants 18 and older.
- License validity: 18–20 → 3 years; 21–69 → 6 years.
04 Under 18 (GDL system)
- Hold the permit for 182 days and log 40 supervised hours (including 10 at night).
- Then apply for an Intermediate License ($5.00, valid for 2 years).
- Nighttime driving curfew (1–5 a.m.) and passenger limits apply.
Studying for the written test?
Try our free practice quiz — 10 questions each time, drawn from a bank of 30.