To learn to drive—and to practice driving in the District—you must have a valid DC DMV learner permit. You must be at least 16 years old to get a DC DMV learner permit, and you must pass vision screening and knowledge tests and provide documentation that proves your identity, residency, and eligibility, among other things.
DC DMV offers learners either a REAL ID or a Limited Purpose learner permit. You will be eligible for either a REAL ID or a Limited Purpose learner permit, depending on whether or not you have a valid Social Security number. Answers to frequently asked questions about both REAL ID and Limited Purpose credentials are available at the links below:
If you get a REAL ID learner permit, you will be able designate certain options regarding voting, organ donation, Selective Service eligibility, veteran status, and special designation indicators such as Autism, Hearing Impaired, and Intellectual Disability just as you would on a driver license. If you get a Limited Purpose learner permit, you may make certain declarations regarding organ donation and special designation indicators such as Autism, Hearing Impaired, and Intellectual Disability. More information on these designations is available at the link below:
Note: You may only drive between 6:00 am and 9:00 pm when you drive with a DC DMV learner permit.
Information on obtaining learner permits, renewing or replacing permits, the DC DMV GRAD license program, teen drivers, provisional licenses, and the full license with conditions, is available on the pages linked below:
Obtain a REAL ID Learner Permit