How to Get Your Driver's License in Louisiana
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Louisiana. Louisiana uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 17.
GDL Stages in Louisiana
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older
Intermediate License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 6 months
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
- No more than 1 non-family passenger under 21
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Turn 17 with clean driving record during intermediate period
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless going to or from work, school, or an emergency.
- Only 1 non-family passenger under 21 is allowed.
How restrictions lift: Restrictions lift automatically at age 17.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older are exempt from the GDL program and may obtain a full license after passing the knowledge and road tests.
Louisiana-Specific Information
Louisiana requires completion of a pre-licensing course (classroom and behind-the-wheel training) before a teen can receive a learner's permit. The state also uses a points-based system where GDL holders face stricter penalties for moving violations than adult drivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 17 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Louisiana.
Louisiana uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Intermediate License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless going to or from work, school, or an emergency.
- Only 1 non-family passenger under 21 is allowed.
Adults age 18 and older in Louisiana can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older are exempt from the GDL program and may obtain a full license after passing the knowledge and road tests.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Louisiana learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Louisiana.
Louisiana drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) website for the most current information.