How to Get an Oregon Driver’s License: The Ultimate Guide

Getting your first license is an exciting time – no matter how old you are. It may seem a bit difficult, but it doesn’t have to be.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to get your Oregon driver’s license, whether you’re a teenager or an adult.

Instruction Permit

The state of Oregon requires teenagers to complete the Graduated Driver License program before gaining full driving privileges. You are eligible to apply at the age of 15.

• Pass the Vision Test – The vision test tests your eyesight to ensure that you will be able to safely operate a motor vehicle. You will need to exhibit 20/80 vision or better.

• Pass the Knowledge Test – The exam tests road signs and traffic rules in Oregon. It is 35 questions and you’ll be required to answer 28 correctly (80%) to pass. You will be charged $5 before you take the test.

To prepare for the knowledge exam, we strongly recommend that you prepare using a proper study resource such as Zutobi. Since 50% fail the knowledge test nationwide, you’ll need to come prepared to pass. At Zutobi, we teach you the rules of the road using our summarized Oregon handbook, permit practice test, and tons of practical driving tips.

Learner’s Permit Restrictions

• You must always be accompanied by a licensed driver 21 years or older who is sitting in the passenger seat.
• You cannot operate a motor vehicle while using electronic devices.

If you want to know more about this part of the process, we recommend that you read our in-depth Oregon learner’s permit guide.

Provisional Oregon Driver’s License

Before you can move on to a provisional driver’s license, you must have had your permit for at least six months and completed one of the following:

1. Completed Driver Education. A driver education course is required for young drivers to progress through the GDL program. You can take a TSD-approved Driver Ed course which will also allow you to skip the driving test.
2. Completed supervised driving. If you decide not to take driver’s education, you will be required to take 100 hours of supervised driving. If you did, only 50 hours of supervised driving will be required.

How to Get a Provisional Driver’s License

1. Pass Safe Driving Practices Test

The Oregon safe driving practices test is required for you to take no more than 30 days before your 16th birthday. It contains 20 multiple choice questions.

2. Pass Driving Exam

The driving exam will test your ability to perform core driving maneuvers, as well as other important movements. Your test administrators will also test you on how well you generally operate a motor vehicle safely.

If you did not take a TSD-approved course, you will be required to schedule a driving exam. Those who did take one of these courses may still schedule an appointment or simply walk-in. You will need to bring a parent or guardian to co-sign your application. Remember to bring the necessary documents so you can provide proof of identity, date of birth, residence, vehicle insurance, and social security number.

3. Pay License Fee

At the time of writing, the Oregon provisional driver’s license fee is $60 and the driving test fee is $9.

Provisional Driver License Restrictions

• Cannot operate motor vehicles while using electronic devices
• Cannot drive between the hours of midnight and 5 am unless driving between work or school OR accompanied by a licensed driver who is 25 years or old
• Cannot drive with any passenger under 20 years old who are not family members for the first six months
• Cannot drive with more than 3 passengers under 20 who are not family members

Full Oregon Driver’s License

At 18 years old, you will be eligible for your full Oregon driver’s license. If you have gone through the GDL, you will simply need to visit the DMV and receive your license.

New Drivers Over 18

If you’re over 18 and haven’t completed the GDL – You’ll have to complete a pre-application form before you head over to the Oregon DMV. Make sure to bring the necessary documentation listed above, such as proof of identity and proof of social security, as you will be asked to present it in order to prove your eligibility to obtain a driver’s license.

Afterwards, you will be prompted to take the knowledge, vision, and road exams. Once you pass these and pay the license fee and drive test fee, you’ll be granted your driver’s license!

That’s It!

That’s all you need to know about getting a driver’s license in Oregon. If you ever get confused, feel free to reference this guide on your pursuit. Good luck!

And if you need any help studying for your upcoming exams, then you’ve come to the right place.