How to Get Your Louisiana Learner's Permit (OMV Guide)
Everything you need to apply for a Class E Learner's Permit (issued after a Temporary Instructional Permit, or TIP) through the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, Department of Public Safety and Corrections (OMV) — the age requirement, documents to bring, the knowledge test, fees, and what comes next.
Requirements & minimum age
To get a Class E Learner's Permit (issued after a Temporary Instructional Permit, or TIP) in Louisiana, you must be at least 15 (with driver education) and apply in person at the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles, Department of Public Safety and Corrections (OMV). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.
Louisiana's OMV written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving from the Louisiana Driver's Guide. Teens log 50 hours of supervised practice and follow intermediate-license nighttime and passenger limits.
Documents to bring to the OMV
Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:
- Proof of identity, such as a certified birth certificate or a valid U.S. passport
- Verification of your Social Security number, such as your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a printout from the Social Security Administration
- Proof of Louisiana residency showing your current address
- One additional form of identification, such as a photo work ID, high school diploma, or insurance card
- For applicants 17 and under, a custodial parent or legal guardian must appear in person to sign the application and provide identification (legal guardians must also present proof of guardianship)
- Certificate of completion for an approved driver education course (30 hours classroom plus 8 hours behind-the-wheel for applicants under 18); photocopies of documents are not accepted
The knowledge test
In Louisiana, the knowledge test is taken in person. A 40-question multiple-choice knowledge exam on traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving that must be taken in person at an OMV office, where a passing score of at least 80% is required along with a vision screening.
Rehearse with our free Louisiana practice test — 25 random questions with instant explanations.
Start the Louisiana Practice Test →Fees
The OMV charges About $32.25, plus up to a $6.00 service fee at certain offices for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the OMV before you visit.
What happens after you pass (graduated licensing)
Louisiana uses a graduated licensing program. Applicants must first obtain a Temporary Instructional Permit (available at age 14) before testing or on-road instruction, then a learner's permit; applicants age 15 must hold the learner's permit at least 180 days and until age 16, and applicants age 16 must hold it at least 180 days or until age 17 before advancing to an intermediate or full license.
Louisiana permit FAQ
How many questions is the Louisiana permit test?
The OMV knowledge test has about 40 questions, and you need 32 of 40 (80%) to pass. Our free practice test uses a random set of 25 questions so you can rehearse before the real thing.
Can you take the Louisiana permit test online?
In Louisiana, the knowledge test is taken in person. A 40-question multiple-choice knowledge exam on traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving that must be taken in person at an OMV office, where a passing score of at least 80% is required along with a vision screening.
What do I need to bring to the OMV?
Bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Louisiana residency, plus anything required for a Class E Learner's Permit (issued after a Temporary Instructional Permit, or TIP). Applicants under 18 also need parental or guardian consent. See the full checklist above.
How old do you have to be to get a Louisiana permit?
You can apply for a Class E Learner's Permit (issued after a Temporary Instructional Permit, or TIP) at 15 (with driver education) in Louisiana, provided you meet the OMV's other requirements.
How much does a Louisiana permit cost?
The OMV charges About $32.25, plus up to a $6.00 service fee at certain offices for the permit. Fees can change and may include separate testing or service charges, so confirm the current amount with the OMV.
What happens if I fail the Louisiana permit test?
If you do not pass the knowledge test, you may retake it, though the OMV may require you to wait before a repeat attempt and additional fees can apply. Contact your local OMV office for the current waiting period.
Official sources: expresslane.la.gov · expresslane.org · www.expresslane.org