O High school, college or university o High school year book photo. O School records or at least 2 report cards from separate years o Original or certified professional degree or license o Driver Education Certificate o Department of Education o Six Hour Pre-licensing o 38 Hour Course. Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections Office of Motor Vehicles requires anyone 18 years of age or older who wants to get a driver’s license must take a 14 Hour Pre-licensing Course, which includes 6 hours of in-class instruction and 8 hours of behind-the-wheel driving and to complete a Road Skills Test. The following items are required to renew your driver's license: Your Louisiana driver's license which you have in your possession; Valid credit card backed by Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express; If your address is different than what appears on the face of your license, you are not eligible for internet renewal. Louisiana law requires your current address to appear on the face of your license. Required documents include: current identification like a driver's license, state ID, passport with your current address, or voter registration card original or certified birth certificate Social Security card or W2 form two different documents that show proof of your current address (ex. Driver’s License. After holding an intermediate driver’s license for 12 months and completing all requirements explained above without violations, a teen can apply for an unrestricted driver’s license. Before any driver can lawfully operate a vehicle in Louisiana.
The state of Louisiana has a graduated driver’s licensing program for first-time drivers.
The GDL program is operated through the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) with the intent to give drivers an understanding of road rules and behind-the-wheel driving experience.
The GDL process includes:
- Learner’s Permit
- Provisional License
- Unrestricted License
Before going to the DMV, you’ll want to collect:
- Proof of identification
- Proof of residency
- Payment method
You will visit an LA DMV when applying for your new driver’s license.
Important: Every resident applying for a permit, provisional, or license will need to either complete a driver’s education course or pre-licensing course.
Louisiana New Driver's License
Getting Your Unrestricted License
You will need to file the appropriate forms and pass certain requirements whether you’re holding a provisional license or coming into the unrestricted license because you’re older.
Main requirements include:
- Completed a driver’s education course
- Be at least 17 years old
- Have your provisional license
When ready, complete the following:
- Find and visit a DMV office
- Complete and file the Application for License or Identification Card (DPSMV 2003)
- Provide proof of identification:
- 1 primary document like: REAL ID, birth certificate, passport
- 2 secondary documents like: W-2, social security card, voter registration card
- Or: Your provisional or out-of-state license
- Provide proof of LA residency
- Show proof of auto insurance
- Pass your tests:
- Vision
- Driving
- Knowledge
- Get your photo taken and pay the $32.25 fee and local fee
- 75 years or older: $18.75
- Local fee: $6
- Provisional holder: $13 upgrade fee
Louisiana Office Of Motor Vehicles
Your driving test takes place at the DMV when licensing. You’ll provide your own, insured vehicle for this test. You may choose to take and forward confirmation from an authorized third-party, too.
The knowledge test is a recap of road signs and rules. Practice a study test before going if you’re unfamiliar with the information.
Out-of-State Drivers
New Drivers License Requirements Louisiana
Licensed drivers coming from out-of-state will apply within 30-days of residency. The state expects you to surrender your old license and show proof of your driving record. You may submit a clearance letter when transferring your license, too.
Congratulations!
Following the graduated program or appropriate sections will have earned you a permit, provisional, or unrestricted license. Continue practicing safe driving and enjoy your time on the roads.
Complete a vehicle registration when ready to get a set of wheels of your own!