How to Get Your Driver's License in Missouri
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Missouri. Missouri uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 17.92.
GDL Stages in Missouri
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
- Complete 40 hours supervised driving including 10 at night
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.
- No more than 1 passenger under 19 for the first 6 months
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Reach age 17 and 11 months
- Clean driving record during intermediate period
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless for work, school, or an emergency.
- Only 1 unrelated passenger under 19 is allowed for the first 6 months. Passenger restrictions ease after 6 months.
How restrictions lift: Restrictions are fully removed when the driver turns 17 and 11 months (just before their 18th birthday).
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 intermediate license restrictions and may apply for a full license.
Missouri-Specific Information
Missouri uses a unique full-license age of 17 and 11 months (approximately 17.92 years), making it one of the latest full-license ages for any state that technically allows licensure before 18. The nighttime curfew starting at 1 a.m. is among the latest in the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 17.92 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Missouri.
Missouri uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Intermediate License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless for work, school, or an emergency.
- Only 1 unrelated passenger under 19 is allowed for the first 6 months. Passenger restrictions ease after 6 months.
Adults age 18 and older in Missouri can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older are exempt from the intermediate license restrictions and may apply for a full license.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Missouri learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Missouri.
Missouri 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 Missouri Department of Revenue guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Missouri Department of Revenue website for the most current information.