Drivers Permits in Missouri

Getting Your Missouri Learner's Permit

Each year, hundreds of people will die in a Missouri car crash involving a teenage driver. Statistics such as this have prompted the state of Missouri to implement a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program that sets milestones for teens to achieve prior to obtaining an unrestricted driver's license.

The first milestone on your path to a Missouri driver's license is obtaining your instruction permit, which is known in other states as a learner's permit. Below you will find all the required steps, including documents to submit and info about your written permit test.

You can also reach the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) at (573) 526-2407.

New to Missouri?

If you're new to Missouri and have a learner's permit from your previous state, you may transfer it for a MO learner's permit by:

  • Visiting a DOR office.
  • Surrendering your valid current learner's permit.
    • If your permit has expired, it may NOT be expired for more than 184 days.
  • Submitting proof of:
    • Name.
    • Birth date and birth place.
    • Social Security number.
    • Address.

As long as your learner's permit is valid or falls within the expiration range, the written exam will be waived. Otherwise, you'll need to test for your permit again.

How to Get a Learner's Permit in Missouri

In order to apply for a learner's permit in the state of Missouri, you must be at least 15 years old. Visit a State Highway Patrol driver examination station and:

  • Provide proof of:
    • Identity.
    • Date and place of birth (e.g. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Citizenship).
    • Social Security number (e.g. Social Security card, letter from SSA explaining the status of your SSN).
      • The agent may be able to verify your SSN electronically, but bring your documents just in case.
    • Residential address (e.g. utility bill, pay check, bank statement).
  • Have your parent/guardian sign a permission statement.
  • Take a vision exam.
  • Pass a road sign recognition exam.
  • Pass the written permit test (see below).
  • Pay the $7 permit fee.

For more information about these required docs, please refer to this list provided by the DOR.

Taking the Written Permit Test in Missouri

To get your learner's permit, you'll need to pass both a road signs recognition test and a written permit exam. The MO written permit exam is based on information about Missouri traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving techniques. Most of the questions are sourced directly from the Missouri Driver Guide.

Pass The Written Test On Your First Try

Although studying the driver guide is an excellent suggestion, we recommend preparing with an industry-leading online practice test that are provided by our certified partners. Don't risk the embarrassment or failing!

MO Learner's Permit Driving Restrictions

Once you have your learner's permit, you're allowed to practice driving; however, there are some age-related restrictions you must follow.

Additionally, all learner's permit holders must have it in their possession at all times, and all occupants of the vehicle must wear seatbelts.

Under 16 Years Old

If you're under 16 years old, you can only drive when accompanied by a “qualified person" in the front seat next to you.

The DOR defines a “qualified person" as a:

  • Driving instructor.
  • Licensed parent/guardian.
  • Licensed driver at least 25 years old who:
    • Has been licensed for at least 3 years.
    • Has received written permission from your parent or legal guardian.
  • Licensed driver designated by a disabled parent or guardian.

Over 16 Years Old

If you're 16 years old or older, you may drive only when accompanied by a person at least 21 years old with a valid driver's license seated in the front seat next to you.

Behind-the-Wheel Driving Requirements

As part of the GDL program, the DOR has established behind-the-wheel (BTW) driving requirements. You must complete:

  • 40 hours of supervised driving instruction with your qualified driver
  • 10 hours of night driving as part of the overall 40 hours.

Replacing Your Learner's Permit in Missouri

If your current learner's permit expires or has been lost or stolen, visit your nearest DOR office and present your documents of identification that you used when you initially applied. You'll need to re-pay the permit fee of $7.

Your Next Step: Get Your Intermediate Driver's License

Your next step in the GDL process is to get your intermediate Missouri driver's license. You can apply once you have:

  • Turned 16 years old.
  • Completed your behind-the-wheel driving hours.
  • Held your learner's permit for at least 182 days.

For more information, visit our MO Teen Driver's License page.

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