“I am 20 and want to get my drivers license I need to get a permit first. When I called I was told to come in, take a written and do a driving test but I need a permit first to learn to drive What do I need to do?”

It sounds like there’s some confusion, which is common when dealing with the DMV/Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent agency in your state). Here’s a breakdown of what you likely need to do to get your driver’s license at 20, starting with the permit:

1. Understand the Permit Requirement:

• Yes, you almost certainly need a learner’s permit first. The person you spoke with might have been explaining the entire process from permit to full license, or they might have assumed you already had a permit. A permit allows you to practice driving under supervision before you take the actual driving test for your license.
• Age 20: While some states have different rules for teens, at 20, you’ll generally apply for an adult learner’s permit. The holding period for this permit (how long you need to have it before taking the driving test) can be shorter for adults than for teenagers in some states.

2. Steps to Get Your Learner’s Permit:

• Study the Driver’s Manual: This is crucial. Every state has an official driver’s manual (often available online on the DMV/Department of Motor Vehicles website) that covers all the road signs, rules, and traffic laws you’ll need to know.
• Gather Required Documents: This is where many people get held up. You’ll need to prove:
  • Identity: Birth certificate, unexpired U.S. passport, etc.
  • Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2, pay stub, etc.
  • Residency: Two documents showing your current address (utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, etc.).
  • Lawful Presence: Proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate, passport) or lawful status in the U.S.
  • Note: Always bring original documents, not photocopies, unless otherwise specified.
• Pass a Vision Test: You’ll typically take a vision screening at the DMV. If you wear corrective lenses, bring them.
• Pass the Written Knowledge Test: This is the “written test” they mentioned. It will cover road signs and road rules from the driver’s manual. Many states offer online practice tests, which are highly recommended.
• Pay the Fee: There will be a fee for the permit application.
• Get Your Photo Taken: They’ll take your picture for your temporary permit.

3. What to Do After Getting Your Permit:

• Practice, Practice, Practice: Your permit allows you to drive, but only under specific conditions. In most states, you must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old (sometimes 25) and seated in the front passenger seat, capable of taking control of the vehicle.
• Supervised Driving Hours: Some states require a certain number of supervised driving hours, including night driving, even for adults, before you can take the driving test for your full license. You may need to sign an affidavit confirming these hours.
• Driver’s Education (Optional/Sometimes Required): While often mandatory for teens, for adults (especially those 18+), a driver’s education course might be optional but highly beneficial, or sometimes even required if you haven’t held a license before.

4. Steps to Get Your Driver’s License (After the Permit):

• Hold Your Permit for the Required Time: As mentioned, there might be a minimum period you need to hold your permit (e.g., 30 days, 6 months) before you’re eligible for the driving test.
• Schedule a Driving Test (Road Test): You’ll typically need to schedule an appointment for this.
• Provide a Vehicle: You must bring your own vehicle for the road test. It must be properly registered, insured, and in safe working condition.
• Be Accompanied: A licensed driver (meeting the same age/supervision requirements as for the permit) must accompany you to the DMV for your road test.
• Pass the Driving Test: An examiner will evaluate your ability to safely operate a vehicle, including maneuvers like parallel parking, three-point turns, lane changes, and adherence to traffic laws.
• Pay the License Fee: Once you pass, you’ll pay the fee for your driver’s license.
• Get Your Photo Taken: A new photo will be taken for your official driver’s license, which will usually be mailed to you. You’ll receive a temporary paper license immediately.

Your Next Immediate Steps:

1. Find your state’s official Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), Department of Driver Services (DDS), or equivalent agency’s website. Search for ” [Your State] DMV” or ” [Your State] Department of Driver Services.”
2. Look for information on “Learner’s Permit for Adults” or “First-Time Driver’s License (18+).”
3. Download and thoroughly read your state’s Driver’s Manual.
4. Make a list of all the required documents specific to your state and gather them.
5. Determine if you need to schedule an appointment for the permit test or if walk-ins are accepted.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to getting your driver’s license!