If you’re at least 15 years old and living in Missouri, you’re eligible to apply for your instruction permit—the first step toward earning your full driver’s license. This permit allows you to practice driving with a qualified adult as you gain experience behind the wheel.

Here’s a clear, step-by-step breakdown to help you get started and succeed.

✅ Basic Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a Missouri instruction permit, you must:

• Be at least 15 years old

• Visit a Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) driver examination station

• Pass a vision screening

• Pass a written knowledge test based on the Missouri Driver Guide

• Provide acceptable proof of:

  • Name, date of birth, and place of birth (e.g., birth certificate or passport)

  • Social Security Number

  • Missouri residential address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)

• If under 18, a parent or legal guardian must accompany you to sign a permission form

📝 Learn more and verify current documentation requirements at dor.mo.gov.

📘 How to Prepare for the Missouri Written Test

The Missouri permit test includes 25 multiple-choice questions covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.

To prepare effectively:

• Study the Missouri Driver Guide (updated for 2025)

• Take our free, state-specific practice quizzes
  👉 Free Missouri Permit Practice Tests

• Use flashcards to learn signs and rules

• Watch video walkthroughs of practice test questions on YouTube

🗓 Scheduling & Test Day Tips

You’ll take your vision and knowledge tests at a Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) exam station.

What to bring:

• Proof of identity and date of birth

• Social Security number

• Proof of Missouri residency

• Parent/guardian (if under 18)

Test format:

• 25 questions

• You must answer at least 20 questions correctly (80%) to pass

✅ Test Day Tips:

• Arrive early with all required documents

• Get a good night’s sleep

• Take your time—read each question carefully

🎉 After You Pass

Once you pass the knowledge and vision exams:

• Head to a Missouri license office to apply for your instruction permit

• Pay the fee (about $3.50 for ages 15–18)

• Begin supervised driving with a licensed adult (age 25+ with 3+ years of experience)

🚦 Missouri Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) System

Missouri uses a three-step GDL program for new drivers under age 18:

1. Instruction Permit (Age 15+)

• Supervised driving only

• No phone use while driving

• Must hold for at least 182 days

2. Intermediate License (Age 16+)

• Must complete 40 hours of practice driving (including 10 at night)

• Includes restrictions on night driving and number of passengers

3. Full Under-21 Driver License (Age 18+)

• No traffic convictions or alcohol-related incidents for 12 months

📍 Learn more at dor.mo.gov.

❓ Missouri Permit FAQs

Q: How many questions are on the permit test?
A: 25. You need at least 20 correct to pass.

Q: How much does the permit cost?
A: Around $3.50 for teens.

Q: Can I take the Missouri permit test online?
A: No, the test must be taken in person at an MSHP exam station.

Q: What if I fail the test?
A: You can retake the test. There may be a waiting period or retest fee.

Q: Is the test available in other languages?
A: Yes, contact the testing site to request a specific language.

🔑 Final Tip

Preparation is your key to passing on the first try. Read the Missouri Driver Guide, take free Missouri-specific practice tests, and review your mistakes to lock in what you’ve learned.

With focus and the right resources, you’ll pass your Missouri permit test and be cruising toward your full license in no time. Good luck!