Midwest · Instruction Permit
How to get your learner’s permit in Missouri
Missouri issues instruction permits at 15. The required holding period is written into law as exactly 182 days — half a year to the day — before the intermediate license at 16.
Missouri permit requirements at a glance
| Minimum age | 15 |
|---|---|
| Official name | Instruction Permit |
| Supervised practice | 40 hours, including 10 at night |
| Minimum holding period | 182 days |
| Issuing agency | Missouri Department of Revenue — Driver License Bureau (official source ↗) |
How easy is it to get licensed in Missouri?
Our Ease Score weighs starting age, practice hours, and waiting time. See how it works & the full 50-state ranking →
- Starting age
- 15
- Practice hours
- 40 hours
- Waiting time
- 182 days
Longer bars = easier. Overall: 48/100. Easiest in the Midwest: Nebraska (#3) . Nationally, Arkansas is #1 and Maryland is #50.
Did you know? Wyoming makes you hold the permit for just 10 days — the next-shortest wait is 12× longer. See for yourself →
⏳ Count down to your Missouri permit date · ⚔️ Compare Missouri with another state · 📝 Track your practice hours
Steps to get your permit in Missouri
- Confirm you’re eligible. You must be at least 15 . If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign your application.
- Study the official Missouri driver manual. The knowledge test is based on it — download it free from the Missouri Department of Revenue — Driver License Bureau site. Focus on road signs, right-of-way, and Missouri’s specific teen-driving (GDL) restrictions.
- Gather your documents. Plan on proof of identity (certified birth certificate or valid passport), your Social Security number, two proofs of Missouri residency, and — in many states — proof of school enrollment. The exact list is on the official Missouri Department of Revenue — Driver License Bureau page.
- Apply, pass the vision screening, and take the knowledge test. Most offices recommend or require an appointment, and a fee applies at application — check current fees on the official site, as they change periodically.
- Practice with a qualifying supervising driver. Missouri requires 40 hours, including 10 at night. Keep a signed log — you'll certify it later.
- Hold your permit for the required period. In Missouri, that's 182 days. Then schedule your road test for the next license stage.
Missouri learner’s permit FAQ
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in Missouri?
The minimum age is 15. Missouri calls this credential the Instruction Permit.
How many supervised driving hours does Missouri require?
Missouri requires 40 hours, including 10 at night. A parent, guardian, or qualifying licensed adult must certify the hours.
How long do you have to hold a learner's permit in Missouri?
The minimum holding period is 182 days before you can move to the next license stage.
Can you drive alone with a learner's permit in Missouri?
No. In every US state, a permit holder must be supervised by a qualifying licensed adult seated in the front passenger seat. Driving alone on a permit can lead to citations and can delay your license.
Is Missouri an easy state to get licensed in?
Missouri ranks #13 of 50 on our Ease Score (48/100), which weighs starting age, required practice hours, and the permit waiting period. Arkansas is the easiest state in the nation and Maryland is the toughest.