Louisiana Driver’s License: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide
Whether you’re a new resident, first-time driver, or looking to renew your license, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting your Louisiana Driver’s License through the Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV).
How to Get a Driver’s License in Louisiana
Step 1: Choose the License Type
Most people apply for a Class E (Personal Vehicle) license. Other options include:
- Class D (Chauffeur)
- Class A, B, C (CDL – Commercial)
- Motorcycle Endorsements (Class M)
- Learner’s Permit or Intermediate License (for teen drivers)
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To apply for a REAL ID or standard license, bring:
- One primary document (e.g., U.S. birth certificate or passport)
- Proof of Social Security number (SS card, W-2, 1099, etc.)
- Two proofs of Louisiana residency (e.g., lease, utility bill, bank statement)
- Proof of legal presence (if applicable)
Step 3: Pass Required Exams
First-time applicants must pass:
- Vision screening
- Knowledge (written) test
- Road (skills) test — Must be scheduled with OMV or third-party provider
Driver’s education is required for all first-time applicants under 18 and those under 21 without a previous license.
Teen Drivers: Louisiana Graduated Licensing Program
If you’re under 18, you must follow Louisiana’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) process:
- Learner’s Permit (15+) — Must complete 30 hours classroom and 8 hours behind-the-wheel instruction
- Intermediate License (16–17) — Requires passing road test and holding learner’s permit for at least 180 days
- Full License (17+) — No restrictions if GDL requirements are fulfilled
New Residents Transferring an Out-of-State License to Louisiana
You must transfer your valid out-of-state license within 30 days of establishing residency.
What to bring:
- Valid out-of-state license
- Proof of identity, SSN, and Louisiana residency
- Pass a vision exam
- Written and skills tests are usually waived if your license is current
Renewing Your Louisiana Driver’s License
You can renew your license:
- Online at ExpressLane.org (if eligible)
- In person at an OMV office
- By mail (select cases only)
License terms:
- 6 years for most drivers
- 4 years if under 21 or over 70
In-person renewals may require a new photo and updated documents for REAL ID compliance.
Louisiana REAL ID – Gold Star License
Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID (with a gold star) or passport is required to board domestic flights or access federal facilities.
To get a REAL ID:
- Apply in person
- Provide identity, SSN, and residency documents
- Verify legal presence if applicable
Louisiana Driver’s License Fees (2025)
License Type | Fee (Approx.) |
---|---|
Class E (Personal License, 6 yrs) | $32.25 |
Learner’s Permit | $32.25 |
Intermediate License | $13.00 |
Motorcycle Endorsement | $12.00 |
Duplicate or Replacement | $17.00 |
REAL ID Upgrade | Included in license fee |
Note: Parish fees may apply. Prices may vary slightly by location.
Documents Checklist
- U.S. passport or birth certificate
- Social Security card or W-2
- Two proofs of Louisiana residency
- Current license (if transferring or renewing)
- Completed application form (in-person)
Louisiana OMV Services
- New driver’s licenses and permits
- REAL ID processing
- Renewals and replacements
- Out-of-state license transfers
- Vision, written, and road testing
- Name and address changes
- Motorcycle and CDL licensing
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For official forms, appointments, and digital services, visit the Louisiana OMV website.
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