Getting a driver’s license is a crucial step toward independence, but the cost varies depending on where you live. Some states offer lower fees with shorter validity periods, while others have higher upfront costs but longer license durations.
Here’s a complete breakdown of driver’s license fees for all 50 states along with additional expenses you should consider.
💵 Driver’s License Fees & Durations by State
State |
License Fee (USD) |
License Duration (Years) |
|---|---|---|
Alabama |
$36.25 |
4 |
Alaska |
$20 |
5 |
Arizona |
$25 |
Until age 65 |
Arkansas |
$40 |
8 |
California |
$33 |
5 |
Colorado |
$26 |
5 |
Connecticut |
$72 |
7 |
Delaware |
$40 |
8 |
Florida |
$48 |
8 |
Georgia |
$32 |
8 |
Hawaii |
$20 |
4 |
Idaho |
$30 |
4 |
Illinois |
$30 |
4 |
Indiana |
$17.50 |
6 |
Iowa |
$32 |
8 |
Kansas |
$23 |
4 |
Kentucky |
$30 |
4 |
Louisiana |
$32.25 |
6 |
Maine |
$30 |
6 |
Maryland |
$72 |
5 |
Massachusetts |
$50 |
5 |
Michigan |
$25 |
4 |
Minnesota |
$25.25 |
4 |
Mississippi |
$24 |
4 |
Missouri |
$10 |
3 |
Montana |
$40.50 |
8 |
Nebraska |
$21.50 |
4 |
Nevada |
$42.25 |
4 |
New Hampshire |
$50 |
5 |
New Jersey |
$24 |
4 |
New Mexico |
$18 |
4 |
New York |
$64.25 |
8 |
North Carolina |
$40 |
8 |
North Dakota |
$15 |
4 |
Ohio |
$23 |
4 |
Oklahoma |
$38.50 |
4 |
Oregon |
$60 |
8 |
Pennsylvania |
$35.50 |
4 |
Rhode Island |
$38.50 |
5 |
South Carolina |
$12.50 |
5 |
South Dakota |
$28 |
5 |
Tennessee |
$28 |
8 |
Texas |
$25 |
6 |
Utah |
$25 |
5 |
Vermont |
$32 |
2 |
Virginia |
$32 |
8 |
Washington |
$89 |
6 |
West Virginia |
$40 |
5 |
Wisconsin |
$34 |
8 |
Wyoming |
$20 |
8 |
💡 Pro Tip: Some states offer discounts for seniors, veterans, and those renewing online!
📋 Additional Costs to Consider
Expense |
Estimated Cost (USD) |
Details |
|---|---|---|
Learner’s Permit |
$10 – $30 |
Required in most states before getting a full license. |
Written Test Fee |
$5 – $20 |
Some states charge extra for knowledge tests. |
Road Test Fee |
$10 – $50 |
Required in most states for first-time drivers. |
Replacement License |
$5 – $50 |
Fees for lost or stolen licenses. |
Real ID Upgrade |
$10 – $50 |
Required for federal travel after May 7, 2025. |
💡 Some states bundle the learner’s permit and driver’s license fee into one package. Always check your state DMV website for the most up-to-date pricing!
📍 What Affects the Cost of a Driver’s License?
✔️ State Regulations – Some states subsidize costs, while others charge higher administrative fees.
✔️ License Duration – States with longer validity periods (6-8 years) often charge more upfront.
✔️ Testing Fees – Some states separate testing fees from the standard license cost.
✔️ Real ID vs. Standard License – Real ID-compliant licenses cost $10 – $50 more but are required for domestic flights and federal buildings.
💡 Want a cheaper option? Some states offer discounts for military members, seniors, and first-time drivers.
📌 How to Get a Driver’s License in the U.S.
1️⃣ Check your state’s DMV website – Fees and requirements vary by state.
2️⃣ Schedule your written and road tests – Some states require appointments.
3️⃣ Bring the right documents – Most DMVs require proof of identity, residency, and SSN.
4️⃣ Pay your fees – Some states accept online payments to speed up processing.
5️⃣ Get your temporary license – Your physical card arrives by mail in 1-3 weeks.
💡 Need to renew? Many states allow online renewals, saving you time and money!
🔥 Final Thoughts: How Much Will Your License Cost?
The price of a driver’s license ranges from $10 to $89, depending on your state. If you factor in additional costs like permits, tests, and Real ID upgrades, the total can be $50 – $150.
State |
Lowest Cost (USD) |
Highest Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Most Affordable |
Missouri ($10) |
South Carolina ($12.50) |
Most Expensive |
Washington ($89) |
Connecticut ($72) |
💬 How much did your driver’s license cost? Share your experience in the comments below! 🚗💬
Thinking about getting your first driver’s license? Share this with friends and family to help them budget for their driving journey! 🚦🔑
