How to Get Your Missouri Permit License

Apply for an instruction permit at 15

Apply for a Missouri instruction permit starting at age 15.

Pass both required tests

Pass a 25-question written knowledge test (80%, 20 correct) and a separate 16-question road-sign test (roughly 80%), plus a vision screening, all administered by the Missouri State Highway Patrol at a driver examination station rather than a DOR office.

• Proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number

Log 40 hours of supervised driving

Log at least 40 hours of supervised driving with a qualifying licensed driver, including a minimum of 10 hours after dark.

Drive only with a qualifying supervisor

Under 16, you may only drive when accompanied by a driver at least 25 years old who has been licensed at least 3 years and has your parent or guardian's written permission.

Hold the permit at least 6 months

Missouri requires holding the instruction permit for at least 6 consecutive months before applying for an intermediate license.

Apply for your intermediate license at 16

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

• Supervised driving log

Follow intermediate license restrictions

For the first 6 months, carry no more than 1 non-family passenger under 19; after that, up to 3. No driving 1 a.m.-5 a.m. unless supervised or the trip is for work, school, or an emergency.

Move to a full license

Apply for a full, unrestricted license as early as 30 days before turning 18 — restrictions lift entirely once you're 18.

Apply for an instruction permit

Apply for an instruction permit at 16 or older; the same testing requirements apply as for a younger applicant.

Pass both required tests

Pass the 25-question written knowledge test and the separate 16-question road-sign test, plus a vision screening, at a Missouri State Highway Patrol driver examination station.

• Proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number

Drive with a qualifying supervisor

At 16 or older, you may drive when accompanied by any licensed driver at least 21 years old.

Practice and pass the road test

Practice driving under the terms of your instruction permit, then pass the road test to receive your intermediate or full license depending on your age.

Follow applicable restrictions

An applicant under 18 still follows the intermediate license passenger and curfew restrictions; an applicant 18 or older receives a full, unrestricted license upon passing.