How much does it cost to take a driver's license test in the United States?
Obtaining a driver's license in the United States is a must for many new immigrants and international students, but the cost varies from state to state. This article will provide a detailed analysis of the fee structure for driving license exams in each state in the United States, and attach the latest data to help you better plan your budget.
1. Cost structure of driving license test in the United States

The cost of taking a driver's license test in the United States usually includes the following parts:
| Expense items | Description | Cost range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Written test fee | Theory exam fees | 10-50 |
| Road test cost | Practical driving test cost | 20-100 |
| Driving license cost | The cost of making a driver's license | 20-50 |
| study permit | Temporary learner's license fee | 10-40 |
| Driving school training | Optional training courses | 200-800 |
2. Comparison of driving license test fees in various states
The following is the latest cost data for driving license tests in some states in the United States (2023):
| State name | Written test fee | Road test cost | Driving license cost | total cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| california | 38 | 38 | 38 | 114 |
| new york | 10 | 40 | 50 | 100 |
| texas | 16 | 24 | 33 | 73 |
| Florida | 20 | 50 | 48 | 118 |
| illinois | 20 | 30 | 30 | 80 |
3. Factors affecting the cost of driving license test
1.State of residence: As shown in the table above, charging standards vary greatly from state to state.
2.age factor: Minors usually need to pay an additional study permit fee.
3.Number of exams: If you fail to pass the exam on the first try, you will need to pay a make-up exam fee.
4.Driver's license type: The cost of a commercial driver's license (CDL) is much higher than that of a regular driver's license.
4. Tips for saving money
1. Take advantage of free study resources: Many states offer free practice test questions.
2. Consider skipping driving school: If you already have driving experience, you can study on your own and take the test directly.
3. Pay attention to preferential policies: Some states have fee exemption policies for students or low-income people.
4. Pass the exam in one go: Avoiding make-up exams can save a lot of money.
5. Latest trends
In recent years, many states in the United States have begun to increase driver's license fees. For example, California will increase the cost of driving licenses from $35 to $38 in 2022. It is expected that in the coming years, more states will adjust their fee standards as inflationary pressures increase.
In addition, with the obvious trend of digitalization, some states have begun to charge additional fees for online appointment services, but at the same time, they also provide more online learning options.
6. Summary
The total cost of obtaining a driver's license in the United States usually ranges from $70-$150, depending on the state and personal circumstances. It is recommended to check the local DMV official website in advance to obtain the latest information and make budget planning. Although it is expensive, the freedom of travel and convenience in life brought by obtaining a driver's license are irreplaceable.
I hope the structured data provided in this article can help you clearly understand the cost of taking a driver's license test in the United States. For more detailed information, it is recommended to contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) directly.
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