14Jan
Steps to Take When Applying for a Driver’s License

Driver’s licenses serve as identity cards and help establish the legal age for drinking alcohol. There are many steps for attaining a driver’s license, including taking online courses. Below, we’ll cover what you need to know about applying for a driver’s license so that your experience can run smoothly.

Minimum Requirements

When applying for a driver’s license in the U.S., there are a few requirements you need to fulfill before you can take the test. These requirements are:

  • Proof of Identity and Age – A legal birth certificate or valid citizenship document is required. You will need to provide the DMV with your full name, date of birth, place of birth, mother’s maiden name (if applicable), U.S address if not a citizen, height, weight, and signature.
  • Proof of Social Security Number – This can be done with your social security card, W8 form, or pay stub. The DMV will also accept a Social Security Administration (SSA) letter that confirms you have been issued a social security number.
  • Proof of Legal Presence in the U.S. – This can be done with a valid U.S passport, I-551 stamp in your passport, or an approved document such as a Permanent Resident Card (I-551).

These requirements may vary from one state to another, so it’s best to find out what’s needed in your state before going for one.

Pay the Required Fees

Once you’ve had all your requirements checked, you’ll have to pay the required fees for processing of your driver’s license.

Depending on the state you’re applying in, you can either be charged a one time fee, or a renewable sum of money paid annually.

The one-time fee could be anything from $30 to $100, varying from one state to another, while the renewable sum starts at $5.

Some states also might charge you in advance. Others may charge the amount at the end before issuing the document.

Preparations and Tests

Once you have gathered everything you need for the application process, you now need to prepare for the written and driving tests.

The written test will cover road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. The best way to prepare is to take a practice test or use online resources that can help you understand the material.

You’ll need to make an appointment with your local DMV office for the driving test. The test will consist of a series of maneuvers that you’ll need to complete safely, such as parallel parking and three-point turns. You can find a practice driving test online or in the DMV handbook.

After passing both tests, you’ll then have to take a vision screening. Once this is completed, you can take the driver’s test. If all goes well, you’ll leave with your new license.

Your learning experience doesn’t stop with securing your driver’s license. New rules and technologies like the driver license scanner app emerge every new day, so you must be ready to embrace and accommodate them.