How to Get Your Missouri Driver’s License

If you’re looking for a link to “schedule an appointment” at the Missouri DMV, you won’t find one. Missouri is a walk-in state.

This is the most important fact to know. You do not need (and cannot make) an appointment for a standard driver’s license, permit, or renewal.

But the real secret to the Missouri “DMV” is that it’s actually two completely different offices that you must visit. This guide will show you the correct “Two-Stop” process so you don’t waste your time.

The “Two-Stop” System: Where You MUST Go

This is the key to the entire Missouri system. You cannot get everything done in one building.

• STOP 1: The MSHP (Missouri State Highway Patrol) Office
  • What it’s for: This is the only place to take your tests.
  • Services: Written (Knowledge) Test, Vision Test, and the final Road (Skills) Test.
• STOP 2: The DOR (Department of Revenue) License Office
  • What it’s for: This is the only place to do your paperwork.
  • Services: Getting your physical Learner’s Permit, getting your first Driver’s License (after you pass the road test), License Renewals, and all Vehicle Registration and License Plates.

You must go to the MSHP first to pass your tests, then take your proof of passing to the DOR License Office to get your card.

How to Get Your First Missouri Driver’s License (The Real Process)

Here is the correct, step-by-step path for a new driver.

Step 1: Go to an MSHP Driver Examination Station (Walk-In)

• Goal: To get your Learner’s Permit.
• Action: Find your nearest MSHP station and walk in.
• What to Bring: Your REAL ID documents (see below in Real ID list).
• What Happens: You will take the Vision Test and the Written (Knowledge) Test.
  • The test has 25 multiple-choice questions from the Missouri Driver Guide. You must get at least 20 questions correct (80%) to pass.
• Result: The MSHP will give you a “passed” certificate.

Step 2: Go to a DOR License Office (Walk-In)

• Goal: To get your physical permit card.
• Action: Take your MSHP “passed” certificate and your documents to a DOR License Office.
• What Happens: You will pay the fee, and they will issue you your official Learner’s Permit.

Step 3: Practice Driving

• You must now practice driving. If you are under 16, you must complete 40 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours of night driving, before you can take the road test.

Step 4: Return to the MSHP Station (Walk-In)

• Goal: To pass your driving test.
• Action: Go back to an MSHP station for your Road (Skills) Test.
• What to Bring: Your valid Learner’s Permit, a vehicle with valid insurance and registration, and your licensed supervising driver.
• Result: The MSHP will give you another “passed” certificate.

Step 5: Return to the DOR License Office (Walk-In)

• Goal: To get your official Driver’s License.
• Action: Take your MSHP “passed” road test certificate and your permit to a DOR License Office.
• What Happens: You will pay the fee, and they will issue your new driver’s license.

How to Renew or Register Your Vehicle (The Walk-In Process)

This is the easy part. All renewals, registrations, and license plate services are walk-in only at your local DOR License Office (Stop 2).

• License Renewal: Bring your REAL ID documents (see below) and your old license to a DOR License Office to renew.
• Vehicle Registration: Bring your signed title, proof of insurance, and a passed safety inspection report to a DOR License Office to get your plates.

The Pro-Tip: The best way to “schedule” is to renew your license or plates online at the official DOR website: https://mydmv.mo.gov/. This lets you skip the trip entirely.

The Real Appointment Guide: How to Beat the Walk-In Lines

Since Missouri is a walk-in state, “how to schedule” really means “how to not wait for 3 hours.”

• Go in the Middle of the Week: The best days are Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Avoid Mondays (everyone who couldn’t go over the weekend) and Fridays.
• Go in the Middle of the Month: The beginning and end of the month are always packed with people trying to renew before their birthday.
• Go in the Morning: Arrive 15-20 minutes before the office opens to be one of the first in line. The next-best time is between 8:30 AM and 11:00 AM.
• Avoid Lunch Hour: Never go between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. This is the busiest time with the fewest staff.
• Check TWO Sets of Hours: Remember, the MSHP (Testing) Stations and the DOR (Paperwork) Offices have different hours! The MSHP stations often close for lunch or are closed entirely on Mondays. Always check their specific hours online.

Required Documents for Your Visit (REAL ID)

When you visit the DOR License Office, you must bring the official REAL ID documents to get your new license.

• 1. Proof of Identity & Legal Status (One required):
  • U.S. Passport or U.S. Birth Certificate
  • Permanent Resident Card or other immigration documents
• 2. Proof of Social Security Number (One required):
  • Social Security Card
  • W-2 or 1099 form (must show full SSN)
• 3. Proofs of Missouri Residency (TWO required):
  • You must bring TWO recent (within 60 days) documents from different sources with your name and MO address.
  • Examples: Utility bill, bank statement, paystub, lease agreement.

FAQs