Getting a Nevada Learners Permit

The first big step in getting your Nevada drivers license is getting your learners permit. The state of Nevada has this requirement in place so that you can learn gradually and feel fully prepared to get your drivers license. We’ve put together this guide to help you understand everything you need to do to get on your way to driving independently.

Step One: Drivers Ed

If you’re under the age of 18, you are required to complete an approved Nevada drivers ed course. It’s important to note that this step is not required for you to get a learners permit, but it is required to get a drivers license. You can enroll in a course as soon as you turn 15. You have a couple options when it comes time for this:

• Complete either an online or classroom course and log 50 hours of behind-the-wheel practice, or
• Complete 100 hours of behind-the-wheel practice.
  • This option is only available if a classroom course is not offered within a 30-mile radius of your home and you do not wish to complete a course online.

Step Two: Applying for the Nevada Learners Permit

Once you are 15 ½ years old, you can get your learners permit. You will need to visit your local DMV office to apply. At the DMV, you will be required to present proof of identity–this is usually a certified U.S.-issued Birth Certificate and your Social Security card. However, there are other forms of identification you can provide.

At the DMV, you will:

• Have a parent or legal guardian sign the financial responsibility section of your application.
• Take a written test and a vision exam.
  • The written test is made up of 50 multiple-choice questions, and you must get at least an 80% to pass.
  • You must have at least 20/40 vision in one eye. If you need glasses or contacts to meet this requirement, a restriction will be placed on your permit indicating this.
• Pay the licensing and testing fees.
• Receive an interim paper document that allows you to drive.
  • You may only drive when accompanied by a licensed driver over the age of 21, with at least 1 year of driving experience, in the front passenger seat.
  • Your actual learner’s permit will be mailed to you within 10 business days.

How Long is My Permit Valid?

Your Nevada learners permit is valid for 1 year. If your permit expires, you will need to apply to renew it at a DMV office. Your parent or legal guardian is required to sign another Financial Responsibility Statement. If your permit has been expired for over 30 days, you must take the written test again; this means you will have to pay another testing fee on top of the renewal fee. And if your permit has been expired for over 1 year, you will need to show proof of identity once again.

Behind-the-Wheel Requirements

The in-car requirements that teens must fulfill are:

• You must complete 50 hours of behind-the-wheel practice.
  • 10 hours must be completed at night.
• You are required to have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and who has been licensed for a minimum of 1 year, accompany you in the passenger seat at all times.
• You are required to keep a written log of the dates and times that you practice on the form provided by the DMV.
  • Your parent or legal guardian will need to sign this form and turn it in when you apply for your full license.
  • This form must be fully completed before your driving skills test.
  • Any behind-the-wheel experience with a professional driving instructor counts toward the required 50 hours.

With all these steps completed, you’re well on your way to getting your Nevada drivers license!