Washington D.C. · Permit Requirements
Washington D.C. permit-test facts: Questions: Not stated in the reviewed official source.; To pass: A passing knowledge-test result is required; numeric threshold not stated.; Minimum age: 16 years old for a learner permit; Fee: $20 learner permit fee; Re-takes: If the passing result is not used within 14 business days, the applicant must retest; ordinary failed-test wait/attempt limit is not stated; Official handbook: DC DMV Driver Manual.
Before you visit the DMV, make sure you meet every Washington D.C. learner's permit requirement — missing a single document sends you home without a permit. This page lists everything you need: age, documents, tests, and fees, sourced from the DC DMV Driver Manual.
Already have your documents? Practice the free knowledge test below so you walk in ready to pass on the first try.
Washington D.C. permit-test facts: Questions: Not stated in the reviewed official source.; To pass: A passing knowledge-test result is required; numeric threshold not stated.; Minimum age: 16 years old for a learner permit; Fee: $20 learner permit fee; Re-takes: If the passing result is not used within 14 business days, the applicant must retest; ordinary failed-test wait/attempt limit is not stated; Official handbook: DC DMV Driver Manual.
Each field links to the primary official source used for its review. A field marked not stated means the reviewed source did not publish that requested fact; confirm current application details with the authority.
| Fact | Answer | Evidence status |
|---|---|---|
| Questions | Not stated in the reviewed official source. | Not stated on the cited official page |
| To pass | A passing knowledge-test result is required; numeric threshold not stated. | Not stated on the cited official page |
| Minimum age | 16 years old for a learner permit | Verified against cited official source |
| Fee | $20 learner permit fee | Verified against cited official source |
| Re-takes | If the passing result is not used within 14 business days, the applicant must retest; ordinary failed-test wait/attempt limit is not stated | Verified against cited official source |
| Official handbook | DC DMV Driver Manual | Verified against cited official source |
Official source
Field evidence reviewed: 2026-09-14 (retrieved)
Three sample questions from our practice bank. Read the explanation after each.
Question 1 · Permit requirements
What is the minimum age to apply for a DC DMV learner permit?
Correct answer: 16 years old
DC learner permit: minimum age 16.
Question 2 · Urban driving
When driving on busy District streets, what must you do at a marked crosswalk?
Correct answer: Stop and yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk
On District streets, stop and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks.
Question 3 · Sharing the road
How should you pass a cyclist on a narrow District street?
Correct answer: Slow down and pass only when there is safe space
Give cyclists room — slow down and pass only when there’s safe space.
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Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), your Social Security number (Social Security card), and proof of Washington D.C. residency (two documents such as utility bills or bank statements). Bring originals — photocopies are typically not accepted.
16 years old for a learner permit. Different requirements apply depending on your age — younger applicants must complete driver education before applying.
$20 learner permit fee. Check the DMV website for the current fee schedule as these can change.
It depends on your age. Adults (18+) can generally apply directly. Applicants under 18 in Washington D.C. must typically complete an approved driver education program first.
Yes — Washington D.C. offers the knowledge test in Spanish at most DMV offices. You can also request a Spanish version of the driver's handbook at the counter.
Start with a free practice exam. No card, no commitment.
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