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Applying for a New License (Drivers 18+) in Oklahoma

1) Choose Your License
Whether you just moved to the Sooner State or are a teenager eager to start driving, you'll need a driver's license in order to drive a vehicle in Oklahoma. License classes include:
- Class A: Commercial
- Class B: Commercial
- Class C: Commercial
- Class D: Regular
If you're younger than 16, you'll need to either have completed or currently be enrolled in an approved driver education class before applying for a permit.
2) Take a Driver's Education Course
Younger than 16―You'll need to currently be enrolled or have finished an approved driver education class before applying for a permit.
16 and Older―You won't have to complete a driver education course, however, it makes good common sense. The courses will teach you about new driving laws, and show you good driving techniques.
3) Prepare for the Test
To get ready to take the written test, study the Oklahoma Driver's Manual, and then score yourself by taking a few practice tests.
4) Locate a Department of Public Safety (DPS) Office
You'll be taking your written test at a driver exam station. No appointment is necessary, but you will need an appointment when it comes time to take your road test. You can do that by calling or stopping by the exam office.
5) Make Test-Day Preparations
On the day of the test, be ready to:
- Show proof that you're enrolled in or have completed an approved driver education class (if you're younger than 16).
- Provide one primary and one secondary approved document proving name, age, and residency.
- Take a vision test.
- Pass the written test.
- Pay the permit application fee ($4) and permit license fee ($21.50).
6) Take the Written Test
After studying the the driver's manual, taking some practice tests, enrolling in or completing a driver education class (if required), and gathering the necessary paperwork, you're ready to go to the driver exam office.
If you pass the test and fulfill the other requirements, you'll be given a permit, which allows you to drive if you have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old with you. You'll need to practice driving for a minimum of 50 hours, with 10 of those hours being at night, before applying for your intermediate license.
7) Get a Car
You'll need to provide a car that's safe and legally registered to drive when you go for your driving test. If you're looking for a safe, used vehicle, it makes good sense to order a vehicle history report before making your purchase.
8) Get Car Insurance
If you drive a vehicle, you need to carry auto liability insurance. If you're interested in learning more about insurance rates, visit our Insurance Center.
9) Take the Driving Test
If you've recently moved to the Sooner State and are currently licensed, you usually can exchange your license for an Oklahoma license without taking the road or written tests, as long as your former state carries similar driving training and education requirements. Contact your local exam office for details. You are required to take the vision test.
When You Pass
If you're successful with the road test, take the acceptance slip from the examiner and go to a tag agency, where you'll pay the $21.50 fee to get your license. (If you're over 61 years old, you'll pay a reduced fee of a maximum of $11.25.)
If You Fail
If you don't pass, you must wait at least a week before trying again. You may do this up to three times. After that, you'll need to wait at least 30 days before making another attempt at passing the test.
Non-Citizens
Visitors
If you're at least 16 years old and are visiting Oklahoma, you may drive within the state for up to one year as long as you're currently licensed in your home country.
Residents
If you decide to become a resident of Oklahoma, you must apply for an Oklahoma license at the time you officially establish residency. The state provides information on how to apply, and what documentation is needed. Your license will be valid as long as you're authorized to stay in the country, or four years, whichever period is shortest.
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