Drivers Permits

The process to obtain an instruction permit in Oregon depends on your age, i.e. whether you're younger or older than the age of 18.

Getting an Instruction Permit If You Are Under 18

A provisional license permit allows drivers 15, 16, or 17 years of age to operate a vehicle when accompanied by someone who is at least 21 years of age, is sitting next to the permit holder, and has a valid driver's license.

If you want to apply for a provisional instruction permit, you have to meet the following requirements:

Provide the required documents and information

• Proof of residency. See the Oregon DMV's requirements to establish residency.

• Provide proof of identity and residence. See the DMV's list of acceptable documents.

• Your social security number.

• Proof that you are enrolled in school, have completed school, or are exempt. See the DMV's list of acceptable proofs. Note that if you're applying in the summer, try to plan ahead to obtain the necessary documents from your school.

• A completed application. A parent or legal guardian must sign the application.

Pass the required exams

• You must pass the Class C license knowledge test at a DMV office. You can study from the Oregon Driver Manual, available for download in English, Spanish, or Korean. After you've studied, you can practice with the DMV's online test and DMV.ORG's very own online practice tests.

• You must pass the DMV vision test.

Note that most DMV locations stop testing one hour before closing, so call your local DMV office for the best time to test.

Fees and Requirements

• If you have a valid permit or ID card from another state, you have to submit them to the DMV.

• You can only apply for an instruction permit if you haven't had your driving privileges revoked or suspended in another state.

• Pay the $22.50 permit fee and the $5 fee to take the Class C knowledge test. Note: The Oregon DMV requires separate forms of payment for each fee. In other words, bring two checks.

• You must hold an instruction permit from Oregon, other state, or District of Columbia for at least six months before applying for a provisional license.

Getting an Instruction Permit If You Are 18 or Older

If you're 18 or older and need to obtain a provisional instruction permit before getting your driver's license, you'll take the same steps as above with the exception of a few requirements. You do not have to provide the following:

• Proof of school enrollment, completion or exemption.

• A parent or legal guardian will not be required to sign the Drivers License and Identification Card Application.

Note that you will have to provide proof that you are 18 years of age or older. See the DMV's list of acceptable documents.

Lost Permits

It's fairly easy to get a replacement if you've lost your permit, but you will need to go to a DMV office with the following materials:

• Proof of identity. See DMV's requirements for proof of identity.

• Proof of residence address. This is only applicable if you've changed addresses since the DMV has last issued you a permit. See DMV's list of acceptable documents to prove your residence address.

• Check, money order, or cash to pay the appropriate replacement fees.

If you don't have a photo on record, you will need to show more documentation. Either a birth certificate or an official document with photo ID will suffice. The DMV will accept a passport, military ID, out-of-state driver's license, ID card, or immigration document with a photo as further proofs of identity.

Expiration Dates and Renewal

Your instruction permit lasts for two years after date of issue and isn't renewable.

However, if your permit is expired within one year of the expiration date, you can get a new permit by paying the original fee. If your permit goes past one year of the expiration date, you'll have to retake the knowledge test and vision test, as well as pay the fees.