How to get your Louisiana driver's license in New Orleans

Here’s how to get your new Louisiana driver’s license, replace your out-of-state license, or renew it.

Difficulty: medium

Time required: one to several hours

To obtain a driver’s license for the first time in Louisiana, you must go to the Office of Motor Vehicles Field Office at 2001 Behrman Ave. New Orleans, LA 70114. The office is open Monday through Friday and people usually start queuing around 6am. As there is little space inside the building, you will likely have to join the line outside, so prepare for the heat and bring an umbrella if there is a Chance of rain.
The good news is that if you are renewing your Los Angeles driver’s license, you can probably do it online. You will need to use a credit card and your current Los Angeles driver’s license.

If this is a new license for you, you will need to take the written and practical driving tests. Don’t assume that you will be able to pass the written exam just because of the strength of your driving experience. The test is especially oriented to the information in the manuals and manuals, copies of which you can download here. Make sure you memorize all the rules of the road, including the distances involved, international road signs, and safety information. A class could help from an official driving school.
Before you can take any tests for your license for the first time, you will need to present proper identification and proof of insurance. These forms must be original, not Xeroxes! For identification, you must have two of the following documents: birth certificate, passport, permanent residence card, naturalization certificate, American Indian tribal document, or a DOH authorization document.

If you only have one of these, bring it and two of the so-called secondary documents, which include things like an out-of-state driver’s license, a high school diploma, and a Los Angeles University ID. For a complete list, see here.
Whether it is a first driver’s license or a renewal, you will need to take the vision exam.
You will have to pay your fees at the office. They take cash, cashier’s checks, and credit cards. Personal checks are not accepted.
Contrary to the rumors you may have heard, you must be at least 17 years old to obtain a Louisiana driver’s license. If you are 17 years old, you will need your parents / guardians to accompany you.

Once you’ve dealt with the tests and fees, you’ll go to the other side of the building to take a picture and get your license. If you agree to be an organ donor, check that they know this before making the card.
This part of the card making process can be time consuming if the office is busy. Bring something to keep you busy. If possible, do not bring your children.
If you are late, even one day, to renew your license, you will have to take the driving test.