Missouri Class F Instruction Permit (2026): MSHP Testing and DOR Issuance

You apply for a Missouri Class F Instruction Permit through a two-step, in-person process. First, pass your tests at a Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Examination Station. Second, take your passing score to a Department of Revenue (DOR) License Office to pay the fee and receive your permit.

You cannot apply online. The minimum age is 15, and this two-step process applies to everyone, whether you're 15 or an adult first-time Missouri driver. Your permit is valid for 12 months and can be renewed.

How Does Missouri's Two-Step MSHP-DOR Permit Process Work?

The application requires visits to two separate state facilities. MSHP for testing, DOR for issuance. Do not go to the DOR first.

1. Pass Required Tests at an MSHP Station. Visit a Highway Patrol Examination Station to take the vision, road signs, and written knowledge tests. Testing is free and usually walk-in, and you must score 80 percent, answering 20 of 25 questions correctly on the written test. Upon passing, you receive a sealed Driver Examination Record (Form 100). Do not open this envelope. Present it at the license office before it expires, as some records are not accepted after a set time period, so go to the license office soon after passing your tests.
2. Submit Documents and Pay at a DOR License Office. Take your sealed Form 100 and required documents to a DOR License Office. If you are under 18, a qualified person must accompany you to sign the permission statement. Submit your documents, have your photo taken, and pay the $10 Class F instruction permit fee, which covers both permit and processing costs. You will leave with a temporary paper permit. The permanent permit card is mailed to the address you provide and normally arrives within 10–15 business days.

Do the MSHP test and DOR permit visit have to be on the same day?

No. Missouri uses separate MSHP testing and DOR issuance steps, so the two visits do not have to be completed at the same place or in one appointment. Take your Driver Examination Record (Form 100) to DOR promptly after testing rather than letting the record sit unused.

Where Do You Go for an MSHP Test vs. a DOR Permit in Missouri?

Missouri splits testing and permit issuance between two distinct agencies, so you cannot do both at the same location. You can use any Missouri MSHP exam station and any DOR license office regardless of your county of residence.

• For Testing: A Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) Examination Station. Use the MSHP station locator to find one. These are state-run and only administer tests.
• For Permit Issuance: A Department of Revenue (DOR) License Office. Use the DOR office locator and filter for 'License Offices.' These are privately contracted offices that handle payment and printing.

What Happens If Missouri DOR Rejects Your Documents?

If DOR rejects a document, correct the document problem and return to the license office while your examination record is still acceptable. A document rejection by itself does not automatically cancel your passed MSHP test results.

For the exact identity, residency, Social Security, lawful-status, and REAL ID document rules, use the Missouri DOR document checklist and the dedicated Missouri permit documents guide.

How Do Missouri DOR Appointments and Walk-In Rejections Work?

MSHP testing is generally handled separately from DOR permit issuance. License offices may accept walk-ins, but availability varies. If the DOR rejects a document, correct the problem and return or reschedule as the office directs. For booking, rescheduling, cancellations, and walk-in options, see the Missouri permit appointment guide.

How Do You Avoid Missouri Permit Delays and Test Failures?

Before the DOR visit, decide whether you want a REAL ID-compliant or standard permit, bring the matching documents, and keep your Form 100 ready. If you do not pass an MSHP test, you must pass before the DOR can issue the permit. Detailed study advice and retake rules belong in the permit-test and failed-test guides.