You can apply for a new driver's license at any Ohio Deputy Registrar License Agency. Obtain an Ohio Driver's Handbook to familiarize with the driving rules and regulations.

NEW DRIVERS AND FIRST TIME APPLICANTS

Following are the basic requirements for applying for an Ohio driver's license:

1. Applicants must be 15 and 1/2 years or older. For those under 21, the Driver's License, which is usually valid for a period of four years, is only valid until the 21st birthday.
2. Any individual under 18 should provide parental consent and they should be co-signers at the time of application. For additional details, see Beginner Drivers and/or Learner's Permits for Beginner Drivers.
3. Everyone must pass the vision, written, and driving tests. See Practice Tests and Driver's Handbook for more information on the written examination. Driver education programs can help individuals prepare for their road test.
4. Applicants must provide acceptable primary and secondary proof of identification to prove name and date of birth, and also provide their Social Security Number.
5. Applicants must provide proof of legal presence, if applicable.

NEW RESIDENTS

Ohio residents holding a driver's license from another state need to pass the vision and written tests. The driving test is usually waived if the out-of-state license is still valid, but it may be required at the discretion of the examiner. However, like other applicants, new residents must provide proof of identification and presence. Non-US citizens residing in Ohio may apply for a Ohio driver's license, as long as they can provide proof that they are legally authorized to be in the United States, and meet all the other requirements. Note that an Ohio driver's license issued to a foreign national will expire no later than the last date on which they are authorized to be in the United States by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service. Foreign visitors are permitted to drive upto a year in the State of Ohio with their home country's license. However it is always advisable that they carry an International Driver's Permit also.

FEES

The fees for an Ohio driver's license vary from $19.25 to $24.25 depending on the age of the applicant, as seen here.

VALIDITY

The validity of an Ohio driver's license is based on the driver's age at the time the license was issued.

• For drivers over 21, the license is valid for four years, after which it may be renewed.
• For drivers under 21, the driver's license is valid upto the 21st birthday.

TEMPORARY PERMITS

With certain restrictions, an individual can legally drive in Ohio with a temporary permit. See more information on temporary permits here.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• See also Renewing Your License.
• For information on other types of licenses, see Commercial Driver's Licenses, Motorcycle Licenses.
• It is necessary to have active Auto Insurance in order to drive legally in Ohio.
• New drivers see our Driver Education , Driving Schools, Beginner Drivers and Learner's Permits for Beginner Drivers sections.