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How to Get Your Louisiana Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with Louisiana OMV directly.

Under 17 (Graduated Licensing)

  1. Complete a 38-hour driver-education course

    Complete a 38-hour driver-education course, a prerequisite before applying for a Louisiana learner's permit.

    • Driver education completion certificate

  2. Apply for a learner's permit at 15

    Apply for a Louisiana learner's permit at age 15, after passing the 40-question knowledge test (80%, 32 correct) and a vision screening.

    • Proof of identity and residency

  3. Drive only with a qualifying supervisor

    A licensed parent, guardian, or adult 21 or older may supervise — or, uniquely to Louisiana, a licensed sibling at least 18 years old. No cell phone use of any kind, even hands-free, is allowed.

  4. Log 50 hours of supervised driving

    Log at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 15 hours at night.

  5. Hold the permit at least 180 days

    Louisiana requires holding the learner's permit for at least 180 days before applying for an intermediate license.

  6. Apply for your intermediate license at 16

    Once you've turned 16 and met the holding-period and supervised-hour requirements, receive an intermediate license.

    • Supervised driving log

  7. Follow intermediate license restrictions

    No driving 11 p.m.-5 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed parent, guardian, or sibling of legal age. Between 6 p.m. and 5 a.m., no more than one non-family passenger under 21 unless a licensed adult is present.

  8. Move to a full license at 17

    Full, unrestricted driving privileges are granted automatically on your 17th birthday.

17 and Older

  1. Apply for a learner's permit

    Apply for a learner's permit at an OMV location or driving school; the 38-hour driver-education requirement and graduated stages apply specifically to applicants who start before turning 17.

  2. Pass the knowledge test

    Pass the same 40-question knowledge test (80%, 32 correct) and a vision screening.

    • Proof of identity and residency

  3. Practice and pass the road test

    Practice driving under the terms of your learner's permit, then pass the road test to receive your license.

  4. Receive your full license

    Adult first-time applicants receive a standard, unrestricted license upon passing.

Notes

  • Louisiana's zero-tolerance law sets a BAC of 0.02% or higher as a violation for drivers under 21.
  • Since August 2025, Louisiana bans handheld phone use — calls, texting, or social media — for every driver, not just teens.
  • Exact fees and current procedures change over time — confirm the current process on the official Louisiana OMV website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-22