If you're ready to start driving, you've come to the right place. The Unofficial DMV Guide has everything Louisiana teens need to know in order to apply for a learner's permit, intermediate license, or full license.

Did you know that if you're age 18 or older, you can apply directly for your full driver's license? Head over to our Applying for a New License section for details.

Before we go over the different kinds of permits and licenses, let's cover some basic information.

Top First-Time Applicants

All licenses are issued at your local Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). Take two primary forms of identification, or one primary and two secondary forms. Your birth certificate, Social Security card, and high school yearbook will suffice.

If you can't find your birth certificate or you didn't order a yearbook this year, check out the Louisiana OMV's list of accepted forms of identification for further assistance.

Generally, the license fee is $24.50. This is usually paid in cash, but your fee may vary depending on your location.

You can obtain the application at the OMV, or save yourself some time by downloading and completing it at home.

The name on your permit or full license needs to be your legal name. If the name on your Social Security card doesn't match the name on your license or permit, you'll need to make the necessary changes with the Social Security Administration.

Top License Types

Based on the Graduated License Program, there are three kinds of licenses for which you can apply in Louisiana. We've broken down the specifics of each for you.

Learner's Permit

Depending on your age, there are actually three different ways to to get a learner's permit. You can get one at age 15, 16, or 17.

Whatever your age, you'll need to provide the required forms of identification and payment for any fees. You'll also need a parent or legal guardian to sign for you.

All applicants must take vision, written, and traffic signs exams, in addition to completing a 38-hour Driver Education Course. Louisiana provides a list of approved courses online. Take proof of successful completion of the course with you when you apply.

Once you have your learner's permit, you may drive with another licensed driver who is at least age 21 or a licensed sibling who is at least age 18.

Applicants age 15 and 16 must have their learner's permits for at least 180 days before applying for an intermediate license. Applicants age 17 must have their learner's permit, be able to show proof of successful completion of the 38-hour Driver Education Course, and pass the on-road driving exam before applying for the full license.

Intermediate License

Before you can apply for your intermediate license, make sure a parent or legal guardian accompanies you to the OMV office to sign the required paperwork. You must be at least 16 years old―and you must have held your learner's permits for at least 180 days before applying for an intermediate license.

Along with the required forms of identification and fees, you also need to take your learner's permit and a vehicle to use during the road test. You must have proof of insurance for the vehicle. Also, the inspection sticker, license plates, and registration must be up-to-date.

Generally, the road test fee is $16. However, your fee may vary depending on your location. The OMV suggests planning your road test between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. No tests are given between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Once you have your intermediate license, you may drive with passengers or alone. If you plan to drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., you must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least age 21.

You must have your intermediate license until you turn age 17.

Full License

Ready to apply for your full license? You can get one at age 17 if you have had your learner's permit and intermediate license for the designated time period.

Take the appropriate forms of identification, fee payment, proof of completion of the 38-hour Driver Education Course, proof of insurance and valid inspection, plate, and registration information for the vehicle you use for testing, as well as a parent or legal guardian to sign for you.

Top More Information

Check out our Driver Education, Drivers Training, and Practice Tests sections for information regarding driver education courses, training, and tips for safe driving.

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