Show-Me State Driver: Your Complete Guide to a Missouri Driver's License

Getting your driver's license in the "Show-Me State" is a major milestone, unlocking the freedom to explore everything from the Gateway Arch in St. Louis to the Ozark mountains. The journey to becoming a licensed driver involves several key stages managed by the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) and the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP).

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

Understanding the Two-Agency System: DOR and MSHP

Before diving in, it's crucial to understand the roles of the two main agencies involved. In Missouri, the process is split:

• Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR): Your local license office, run by the DOR, handles all the paperwork, issues the physical permit or license card, and administers the vision and written knowledge tests.
• Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP): The MSHP is responsible for administering all behind-the-wheel driving skills tests (road tests).

For Teen Drivers (Ages 15-17): The Graduated Driver License (GDL) Law

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

Step 1: The Instruction 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 Instruction Permit:

1. Gather Your Documents: You will need to bring several key original documents to the license office, including proof of identity (like a birth certificate), Social Security number, and two proofs of Missouri residency.
2. Visit a License 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 and a road sign test.
3. Pass the Written Knowledge Test: You must pass a 25-question multiple-choice written test based on the "Missouri Driver Guide." You must answer at least 20 questions correctly (an 80% score) to pass.

Rules of the Road with an Instruction Permit:

• You must hold the permit for a minimum of 182 days (6 months) before you can apply for an intermediate license.
• When driving, you must be accompanied by a qualified person (parent, grandparent, guardian, or driving instructor) in the front passenger seat.

Step 2: The Intermediate License

After holding your permit for at least 182 days and completing your practice hours, you are eligible for an intermediate license.

Who is eligible?

• You must be at least 16 years old, but younger than 18.
• You must have held your instruction permit for at least 182 days.
• You must have completed 40 hours of supervised driving, including at least 10 hours at night. This must be documented and certified by your parent or guardian.

How to get your Intermediate License:

The final step is to pass the driving skills test (road test) with the MSHP. Once you pass, you will take your passed test form to the license office to be issued your intermediate license.

GDL Restrictions on an Intermediate License:

• Nighttime Curfew: You cannot drive between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed driver 21 or older.
• Passenger Restrictions: For the first six months, you are not permitted to have more than one non-family passenger under the age of 19. After the first six months, you may have up to three non-family passengers under 19.

Step 3: The Full, Unrestricted License (Under 21)

At age 18, you can apply for a full, unrestricted driver's license, provided your license is not suspended or revoked. The GDL restrictions are then lifted.

For Drivers 18 and Over

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

1. Visit a License Office: Make an appointment and bring your original documents for a REAL ID Compliant license.
2. Pass the Tests: You must pass the vision, road sign, and written knowledge tests. You will then be issued an instruction permit.
3. Take the Road Test: After practicing with your permit, you must schedule and pass the road test with the MSHP.
4. 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 Missouri? Transferring Your License

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

• Make an appointment at a license office.
• Surrender your out-of-state license.
• Provide full documentation for a REAL ID Compliant license.
• Pass a vision screening and road sign test.
• The written test and road test are waived if your out-of-state license is valid and not expired for more than 184 days.

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