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

1) Choose Your License

If you operate a vehicle on the roads and highways of Wyoming―whether behind the wheel of a monster truck, motorcycle, or hybrid―you will need to have a valid driver's license.

Those new to driving or just moved to the state of must apply for a new license. Wyoming offers:

• Class C Non-Commercial Licenses (passenger cars and pick-ups).

• Restricted Driver License for ages 14 and 15.

• Commercial Driver Licenses.

• Motorcycle Licenses.

NOTE: Those under 18 must complete a driver’s ed course.

2) Take a Driver’s Education Course

Younger Than 18― Driver’s ed courses are required for minors.

18 and Older― Wyoming has no driver’s ed class requirement, but if you take one, they waive the road test.

3) Prepare for the Test

The easiest way to prepare for the written exam is to study the Wyoming driver’s handbook. Take a few practice exams and see whether you pass.

4) Locate an Office

The Wyoming DOT offices have no appointment requirements for the written test.

5) Make Test-Day Preparations

If you’re 17 and up, you can apply for a license without first entering the graduated licensing process. You’ll have to:

• Have a parent or guardian sign a minor's release form. These forms are available at each exam office. (Under 18).

• Present proof of U.S. citizenship. The state is specific about this, requiring one of the following documents:
  ―A certified birth certificate*
  ―A valid U.S. passport
  ―A consular report of birth abroad
  ―A certificate of citizenship
  ―A certificate of naturalization

• Provide a verifiable Social Security number.

• Provide two documents proving Wyoming residency.

• Complete an application.

• Pay a $20 application fee.

• Pass a vision screening.

• Pass a driving skills test. You must supply a vehicle fit for the road.

*NOTE: If you were born in Wyoming, you can, if needed, obtain a certified birth certificate from the WY Department of Health's Vital Statistic Services for $13.

From Permit to License

Prospective licensees that hold an Intermediate Permit and are at least age 16 1/2 can apply for full driving privileges (i.e. a Wyoming license). In addition to the above, you must:

• Show evidence of completing an approved driver's education course. This allows you to skip the on-road skills test. Of course, in the permitting process you might have already taken the test.

• Present your Intermediate Permit. This can also be your proof of identity.

• Make sure a parent or guardian signs a minor's release. Forms are available at each exam office.

Restricted Driver License

The state issues restricted driver's licenses to teens14- and 15-years-old who meet a certain set of criteria. Parents must fill out an Affidavit for Restricted License, which includes the relevant verification forms.

This license costs $10.

The Out-of-State Swap

If you are partial to the photo on your out-of-state license but have set up residence in the Cowboy State, you have up to one year to trade in your valid license for the Wyoming version. Once that time is up, you will need to appear in person at an exam office with the following documents:

• The out-of-state license.

• Evidence of your Social Security number.

• One other form of identification from the approved list.

• A completed application.

• A $20 application fee.

6) Take the Written Test

Once you’re sure you’ve know the driver’s manual thoroughly and have perhaps taken a driver’s ed class, go in and take the test.

If you fail, you can take it again the same day.

7) Get a Car

Once you’ve passed the test, the first thought that crosses your mind might be, “It’s time for a car!”

But new cars are expensive. Buying used cars is the most reasonable alternative for most of us.

Before you make a decision, it’s smart to invest in a Vehicle History Report. The report has title information, like whether the car was flooded or salvaged. All you need is the VIN and one fee, and you get access to all the cars you’re shopping for, for one month or more.

8) Get Car Insurance

Now that you’ve picked out a car, the next step is to look for car insurance. Ask a few companies for quotes; the rates vary by company and by car.

9) Take the Driving Test

Appointments are only required for commercial tests, but you can ask if your local office makes them for the regular license, too.

Bring an adequately insured car with you. It will also be safety inspected.

Once You Pass

You’ll get a temporary license.

If You Fail

If you fail the test, you will need to wait 24 hours before making another attempt.

10) Receive Your License in the Mail

Your license should come within 3-6 weeks. If it does not, call (307) 777-4800 or contact the agency where you took your driving tests.

Non-Citizens

Should you become a resident of the state, you must apply for a Wyoming driver's license no later than one year from your residency date to retain your driving privileges. The state provides information on the documentation needed to apply.

If you're visiting Wyoming and have a valid driver's license from another country, you may drive up to one year within the state. However, you should also have an International Driver Permit, issued by your home country. The permit basically translates your license to make it understandable to U.S. officials.

Have both documents with you whenever you're driving.

Your Opinion Matters To Us!