Bayou State Driver: Your Complete Guide to a Louisiana Driver's License

Earning a driver's license in the Bayou State is a major milestone, unlocking the freedom to explore everything from the vibrant streets of New Orleans to the serene beauty of the countryside. The journey to becoming a licensed driver involves several key stages managed by the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV).

This comprehensive guide will serve as your roadmap, breaking down Louisiana's Graduated Driver's License (GDL) program for teens and outlining the process for adults, ensuring you arrive at the OMV confident and prepared for every step.

For Teen Drivers (Ages 15-17): The Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program

To ensure young drivers gain experience in a safe, controlled manner, Louisiana has a GDL program. This system is designed to gradually introduce teens to more complex driving situations as they gain skills and maturity.

Step 1: The Learner's Permit

This is the very first stage, allowing a new driver to learn and practice on the road with a supervising adult.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 15 years old.

How to get your Learner's Permit:

1. Start Driver's Education: You must be enrolled in a state-approved 38-hour driver education course. This includes 30 hours of classroom instruction and 8 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
2. Gather Your Documents: You will need to bring several key original documents to the OMV, including proof of identity (like a birth certificate), Social Security card, and two proofs of Louisiana residency.
3. Visit an OMV Office: You must apply in person. It's highly recommended to schedule an appointment online. At your visit, you will:
   • Submit your application and all required documents.
   • Have a parent or legal guardian present to provide written consent.
   • Pay the required permit and testing fees.
   • Pass a vision screening.
4. Pass the Written Knowledge Test: You must pass a 40-question written test based on the "Louisiana Driver's Guide." You must answer at least 32 questions correctly (an 80% score) to pass.

Rules of the Road with a Learner's Permit:

• You must hold the permit for a minimum of 180 days before you can apply for an intermediate license.
• You must always be accompanied by a licensed parent, guardian, or an adult at least 21 years old. This person must be in the front passenger seat.
• You must log 50 hours of supervised driving, including at least 15 hours at night. This must be documented and certified by your parent or guardian.

Step 2: The Intermediate License

After holding your permit for 180 days, logging your practice hours, and completing your driver education course, you are eligible for an intermediate license.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 16 years old.
• You must have held your learner's permit for at least 180 days.

How to get your Intermediate License:

The final step is to pass the driving skills test (road test). Once you pass, you will be issued your intermediate license.

GDL Restrictions on an Intermediate License:

• Nighttime Curfew: You cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed adult 21 or older.
• Passenger Restrictions: You are not permitted to have more than one non-family passenger under the age of 21 between 6 p.m. and 5 a.m.

Step 3: The Full, Unrestricted License

At age 17, you can upgrade to a full, unrestricted license, provided you have held your intermediate license for at least 12 months. The GDL restrictions are then lifted.

For Drivers 18 and Over

If you are 18 or older and applying for your first Louisiana license, the process is more direct.

1. Driver's Education: You must complete a 14-hour pre-licensing course, which includes 6 hours of classroom and 8 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction.
2. Visit an OMV Office: Make an appointment and bring your original documents for a REAL ID.
3. Pass the Tests: You must pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test. You will then be issued a learner's permit.
4. Take the Road Test: You must take and pass the road test. There is no waiting period after getting your permit.
5. Pay the Fee and Get Your License: Once all tests are passed and documents are verified, you'll pay the licensing fee and receive your full driver's license.

New to Louisiana? Transferring Your License

If you move to Louisiana and hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, you must obtain a Louisiana license.

• Make an appointment at an OMV office.
• Surrender your out-of-state license.
• Provide full documentation for a REAL ID.
• Pass a vision screening.
• The written test and road test are waived if your out-of-state license is valid and not expired.

By understanding these steps and preparing for each one, you can successfully navigate the process and earn the privilege of driving in the Bayou State.