Related Questions from DMV Answers

• Where can I get an application for a temporary license plate?

  Probably because of the amount of paperwork that’s required (copies of title/registration documents, proof of identification, proof of residency, proof of vehicle identification number, fees, etc.), most states require owners to apply for temporary license plates (or temporary permits or temporary registrations, as some states call them) in person at the DMV or other state motor vehicle licensing agency. If this is the case for you, sweep through your state’s Web site and look to see if an temporary license plate application form is available online before heading out; it could save you some time.No matter what state you live in, when you purchase a new or used vehicle from a dealership your salesperson will start most of the registration-related paperwork for you and issue you a temporary license plate or equivalent; therefore, the grid doesn’t reflect the dealership option.Check your state in the grid below.
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• If I have warrants, will my drivers license be suspended?

  There are many different reasons a driver can have a drivers license suspended, such as failing to have adequate car insurance, leaving the scene of an accident, driving under the influence of alcohol, or getting too many points on his or her driving record. One reason that many people are unaware of having a suspended license, however, is having a warrant issued for your arrest. An arrest warrant or bench warrant may be issued for: Failure to obey a court order Failure to pay a legally required fine Failure to complete community service Failure to follow terms of a probation agreement, such as completing a specified alcohol treatment program Failure to appear in court when required by law Keep in mind that warrants may not necessarily have anything to do with your driving record or your behavior on the road. For example, California is one of several states that will suspend your driver’s license if you have a warrant for unpaid child support. In many states, the courts will...
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• How long must I hold a learners permit before I can apply for my license?

  The time requirements vary from state to state; check the grid below.Before you commit the grid to memory (or, at least your state’s part of it), keep these factors in mind: States employ graduated driver licensing (GDL) programs, and within these programs many states require more than one kind of learners permit. This grid deals mostly with each state’s first learners permit, but notes other kinds of drivers permits (like provisional licenses) when possible. The majority of states allow drivers 18 years old and older to apply for their drivers license the same day they pass their written exams – or, very soon after. This isn’t always the case, so be sure to get details from your examiner when you go in for the written test. This grid focuses on the amount of time you have to wait between obtaining your learners permit and obtaining your drivers license; it doesn’t focus on any other requirements, such as completing a drivers ed course. Be sure to che...
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• How can I get a restricted license if I have a suspended license?

  The grid below explains whether your state offers a restricted license (some states don’t) and how you need to begin the application process. The process varies from state to state. For some, it will be as simple as obtaining an application online, completing it and mailing it to the DMV, and awaiting further instructions. For others, it might require a court appearance, completion of a special class, and passing a written exam.Within some states the process varies depending on the reason your drivers license is suspended. For example, if your license is suspended due to driving under the influence, you might have to complete a drug and alcohol awareness course before you can get a restricted license. Or, you might have to forgo a restricted license altogether and apply for an ignition interlock device.Of course, some states base restricted license eligibility on the reason the original license was suspended.  For example, your state might be one that doesn’t offer ...
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• Do all DMV locations offer the road test?

  While all DMV locations offer a basic menu of services, not all offices in all states will provide the road test. Some of the DMV locations that may not offer a road test include: Locations only open on a part-time basis Select offices located in shopping malls or other non-government locations Offices in very rural areas If you need to take a driving test to get your driver's license, the best course of action is to call the office you wish to visit to see if they offer the test and if you will need an appointment. If the road test is offered with no appointment necessary, the DMV representative may be able to recommend the best time to visit in order to reduce your wait. Drivers who live in states with adverse weather conditions should also ask about the DMV policy regarding testing during poor weather. You may need to take a road test if you meet any of the following criteria: You're applying for your first license You let your license expire You're trying to get your license ...
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