How Long Is a Learner's Permit Valid?
Learner's permits are not permanent. They expire after a set period, and if you do not get your license before the expiration date, you may need to reapply, repay fees, and retake the written test.
Permit Validity by State
Permit validity varies significantly. Here are the most common timeframes:
1 year: Florida, Georgia, Ohio, and several other states issue permits valid for 12 months.
2 years: California, Texas, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and many other states give you 2 years to get your license.
3 to 5 years: New York permits are valid for 5 years, giving you the most time. New Jersey permits are valid for 2 years.
What Happens When Your Permit Expires?
If your permit expires before you get your license, you will typically need to: visit the DMV in person, fill out a new application, pay the permit fee again, retake the written knowledge test, and pass the vision screening again.
Your supervised driving hours from the expired permit may or may not carry over — check with your state DMV.
How to Avoid Expiration
Do not wait until the last minute. Start practicing for the road test early. Most states require you to hold the permit for a minimum period (3 to 12 months) before taking the road test, so plan accordingly. Set a reminder for 2 months before your permit expires.