In general, the steps to getting a DC DMV Limited Purpose driver license are:
- Application
- Documentation
- Vision Screening
- Knowledge Test
- Road Test
- Photograph
- Fees
- Mailing
Application
The first step in obtaining a Limited Purpose driver license is to print and fill out the driver license/identification card application form.
Documentation
You must bring documents that prove you are eligible for a Limited Purpose driver license. The documents required are listed below, and DC DMV will not accept any documents that are not listed:
You will need:
- Proof of identity and age. You must be at least 16 years old. The list of documents that DC DMV accepts as proof of identify is available at the link below:
- Limited Purpose Proof of Identity—Full Legal Name and Date of Birth
- Two documents that prove you reside in the District. The list of documents that prove DC residency is available at the link below:
- Proof of Current District of Columbia Residency
- Two documents that prove you have resided in the District for six months. The list of documents that prove you have residency that meets the Limited Purpose criteria is available at the link below:
- Limited Purpose Credential Proof of 6-Month DC Residency
- Proof of your Social Security ineligibility. Information on the Social Security ineligibility form is available at the link below:
- Limited Purpose Credential Social Security Ineligibility
- Proof of parental approval, if you are 16 or 17 years old. The parental consent form is available at the link below:
- Parental Consent Form to Obtain a Learner Permit
Vision Screening
DC DMV administers the vision screening test at the DC DMV service centers. You must pass the vision test to be issued a Limited Purpose driver license.
Knowledge Test
At the DC DMV Service Center, when you have provided your application form and other documents, you must take and pass a knowledge test.
If you do not currently have a valid driver license from DC or another jurisdiction, you will be issued a Limited Purpose learner permit after you take and pass the knowledge test.
Road Skills Test
When you have passed the knowledge test, you can schedule a road skills test. An appointment is required, and walk-ins are not accepted.
Photograph
You must take a new photograph after every driver license, knowledge test, or identification card transaction you have with DC DMV. District law and policy requires a full frontal digital photo that will show either the ears, or up to the hairline without showing the hair.
Fees
Once your photo has been taken, you will pay the appropriate fee for your license.
Mailing
DC DMV will issue you a temporary, paper DC DMV driver license after you have completed the process and paid the fees. This temporary driver license will be valid for 45 calendar days; your actual license will be mailed to you within 10 business days. DC DMV does not mail licenses to PO boxes.
Note: Drivers under the age of 21 who are obtaining a driver license are automatically enrolled in the GRAD Program.
Renew a Limited Purpose Driver License
Your DC DMV Limited Purpose driver license will be eligible for renewal. Instructions for renewals are available at the link below:
Replace a Limited Purpose Driver License
If you lose your DC DMV Limited Purpose driver license, or it is stolen or destroyed, you may replace it. Instructions for replacement are available at the link below:
You may make certain declarations regarding organ donation and special designation indicators such as Autism, Hearing Impaired, and Intellectual Disability on your DC DMV Limited Purpose driver license. Instructions for these designations are available at the link below: