CHAPTER ONE

DRIVER'S LICENSE

Driving is a privilege... not a right!

Anyone who operates a motor vehicle or motor driven cycle on any public roadway in the state of Nevada must have a driver's license. You may apply for a Nevada driver's license at any full service Drivers License location. Driving is a privilege that is extended by the State when someone meets the prescribed criteria. Thus there is no right to drive. As a holder of a Nevada driver's license, you are merely exercising a privilege granted to you. As a conscientious driver, you should make every attempt to keep up to date on new construction, potential hazards, changes to Nevada driving laws, and anything else that may affect you on the road. Furthermore, you should always try to keep a positive attitude when behind the wheel.

You need to have a Nevada driver license if you live or work in Nevada and plan to drive on any streets or highways in the state. If you have just moved to Nevada from another state, you must apply for a Nevada driver license within 30 days. You are also required to register your vehicle(s) within 60 days or at the time you obtain your new Nevada driver license, whichever occurs first. A minimum fine of $250 may be imposed if you fail to register your vehicle(s) within that time period. A resident of Nevada can only hold one driver license, so if you have an out-of-state license or identification card, you must surrender it before the state will issue you a Nevada license. To be eligible for a driver's license, you must be at least 16 years old.

Anytime you apply for a Nevada driver license you will have your vision tested, but all other tests can be waived if:

• You have a valid out-of-state license that is the same class of license you are applying for in Nevada.
• You have had no more than two moving violations in the past four years, and have not had your license suspended, revoked or cancelled.
• There are no restrictions on your license that will need to be reevaluated.

The State of Nevada uses the national Problem Driver Point System to check all driving records before issuing a license. If your driving privilege is cancelled, revoked or suspended in another state, you will not be able to get a Nevada driver license until you clear up your record.

The following people do not need a Nevada driver license:

• An active-duty member of the United States Armed Forces who has a valid out-of-state license
• An out-of-state student.

If applying for a Nevada driver license for the first time, you will need to fill out an application at a full service Drivers License location. If you are under 18 years of age, your parent or guardian will need to co-sign your application.

Central Issuance

In 2008, the Nevada DMV switched to the Central Issuance (CI) program to increase security and prevent identity theft. The new cards issued through CI have 15 security features, including ghost images and precision printing. The major change for motorists is that you will no longer receive your license at the DMV office when you apply. You will receive a temporary permit at the office. The actual license will be produced in a secure, centralized facility and mailed. This will not only improve the security of the licensing process, it will also give the department additional time and tools to help detect fraudulent applications.

Advanced Secure Issuance (ASI)

Starting January 2010, the Nevada DMV issues new driver licenses and identification cards that meet the requirements of the Real ID Act, which is intended to make state-issued identification more secure. One of the features of an ASI card is a gold star on the upper right-hand corner of the card. Most of the documents you used to prove your identity, date of birth, Social Security number (SSN) and lawful status will still be accepted (the list of acceptable documentation is below). In addition to these documents, you must provide proof of a Nevada primary residence.

If you have a Nevada driver license that was issued prior to January 2010, you do not need to go to a DMV office to get the new license early; just wait until your normal renewal date or when you need to make a major change to your license. The reason you can wait is because Nevada driver licenses and identification cards already meet the required federal benchmarks. Thus your current Nevada driver license will still be valid for official federal purposes, such as to board a commercial aircraft or enter a federal building. Under the Real ID Act, those born after December 1, 1964 have until December 1, 2014 to obtain a license that complies with federal rules. Those born before December 1, 1964 have until December 1, 2017. However, you should obtain the proper proof of identity, as well as proof of Nevada residence, so you can be ready when you need to renew or update your license.

When you apply, you will need to show proof of:

• Your name, including history of any name changes (must present one form)
• Your age / date of birth (must present one form).
• Your Social Security number (must present one form).
• Your Nevada primary address (must present two forms).

Acceptable documents for proof of identity (one form required): An original or certified copy of your birth certificate issued by a state or local office of public health, vital records or vital statistics or an equivalent office in the United States, the District of Columbia, or a U.S. territory (a hospital issued birth certificate will not be accepted) A United States Passport or Passport Card A certificate of citizenship or naturalization A consular report of Birth Abroad, issued by the U.S. Department of State A permanent or resident card (I-551) An arrival-departure record (I-94) with valid Visa and Foreign Passport An employment authorization document A Nevada Advanced Secure Issuance driver's license or ID card Acceptable documents for proof of Social Security number (one form required): Social Security Card W-2 Form SSA Form-1099 SSA Form-1099A Pay Stub with name and full SSN Evidence of No SSN – Form SSA L676

Acceptable documents for proof of name change (one form required, if any name changes; must reflect name change history from birth to present):

• A marriage certificate (to match number of name changes; must present a divorce decree if name changed based on divorce)
• A certificate of registered domestic partnership
• A divorce decree (to match number of name changes after divorce)
• A court-ordered name change
• Adoption papers

Acceptable documents for proof of Nevada residency (two forms required; copies accepted)

• A certification of Nevada residency (Form DMV-005) on a form provided by the DMV
• For a minor applicant, a parent, step-parent, or legal guardian must sign the Certification of Nevada Residency. The parent or guardian must reside at the same residence address, accompany the applicant to the DMV office, and present proof of residency in the form of one document listed below.
• A property tax record, utility bills, mortgage document or Deed, rent receipts, a lease or rental agreement
• Enrollment records, student identification card reflecting the residence address, or other documentation that you are physically attending an educational institution located in Nevada
• Motel, hotel, campground or recreational vehicle park receipts showing that you have been residing in Nevada for 30 consecutive days
• Original and current certificate of vehicle liability insurance (not handwritten) reflecting the residence addresses issued by a Nevada-based carrier
• Credit card statement, medical bills, cellular telephone bill, or other statement or request for payment mailed to the residence address dated within the previous 60 days
• A statement from a relief agency or shelter that you have no actual residence, but currently receive assistance in Nevada
• Fuel receipts, motel receipts, or other documents showing you have lived in multiple states (more than two) during the last 12 months, and in Nevada for at least 30 consecutive days, as evidence that you do not primarily reside in some other state
• Voter registration card issued by the Nevada Secretary of State reflecting the residence address
• Documents showing you have a current account (open for at least 30 days) at a bank or credit union in Nevada
• Military Leave and Earnings Statement (LES) to evidence Nevada residency when deployed outside of Nevada
• A document showing receipt of public assistance from an agency of the State of Nevada
• A notarized statement from a property owner that you are residing with them or on their property without a rental or lease agreement

To qualify for your Nevada driver license, you must pass three tests: a vision screening, a written exam, and a road test. The vision test determines if you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear contact lenses or glasses, they should be worn for the test. If you do require corrective lenses, it will be indicated on your license by a restriction.

The second exam you must take is a written exam. This tests your knowledge of Nevada State traffic laws, safe driving methods, and awareness of highway signs and markings. The exam is generally given on paper or on a computer. If you are unable to read or understand the written test, you are allowed to request an oral exam. The exam is available in both English and Spanish.

The third exam you must take is the road test, which determines your ability to operate your vehicle in a variety of situations. When you come in for your road test, the examiner will check your vehicle to make sure it is in safe working condition and that it has all the necessary equipment.

The examiner will not let you take the test if he or she believes the vehicle to be unsafe, or if you do not have the following: Vehicle license plates and current registration Proof of insurance or financial responsibility Headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals A horn Seat belts, for both yourself and the examiner Tires in good condition Windshield wipers Working brakes, muffler and speedometer A clean and safe seat next to the driver for the examiner

During the road test, passengers are not allowed in the vehicle, unless there is a special need. You will not be asked to violate any traffic laws while taking the exam.

You will fail the exam automatically if you do any of the following:

• If you are involved in an accident that is found to be your fault.
• If you hit a pedestrian.
• If you drive so recklessly you might have caused an accident.
• If you violate a traffic law.
• If you refuse to drive as the examiner asks.

• Finding and using the vehicle's controls, such as the brake, accelerator, signals, horn, windshield wipers, and more.
• Starting the vehicle.
• Releasing the brake.
• Checking to see if the way is clear.
• Giving the proper signal, at the proper time.
• Driving at the proper speed.
• Stopping the vehicle.
• Properly backing up.
• Making at least two right turns and two left turns.
• Parking on a hill.
• Entering and leaving intersections.
• Understanding and obeying traffic signs and signals.

The examiner will also be looking for good driving skills such as: Your awareness of the traffic around you. Your speed while driving. The distance you leave between yourself and the vehicle you are following. Yielding the right-of-way when necessary. Obeying lane markings and using the proper lanes.

Remember, the examiner is there to test you, so it is a good idea not to ask questions while taking the test. If you have any questions about what you did wrong, ask after the exam. Once you pass all three exams, you will be issued a Nevada driver’s license. The license will be valid for four years and will expire on your birthday. Licenses that are issued to international students or instructors are valid for only one year, but they can be extended with acceptable documents.

Classifications of Nevada Driver Licenses

CLASSES & DESCRIPTIONS

A - Combination vehicles with a gross combination weight rating over 26,000 pounds; or a trailer over 10,000 pounds.

B - A single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating over 26,000 pounds; this class may also tow a vehicle under 10,000 pounds.

C - This is the most common class of license. You may operate a car, van, or pickup truck. This class also lets you tow a vehicle under 10,000 pounds.

M - This classification allows you to operate a motorcycle or moped.

The following is a list of endorsements you can add to your class of license:

J - This endorsement is added to a Class C license, and will allow you to tow a vehicle over 10,000 pounds.

R - This endorsement is added to a Class C license, and will allow you to tow a combination of vehicles not to exceed 70 feet.

F - This endorsement is a commercial license exemption for the following people:

• Firefighters - when operating emergency equipment.
• Farmers - when transporting supplies within 150 miles to and from the farm (This does not allow the transporting of hazardous materials).
• Military - when driving military vehicles on active military duty.

Commercial Driver License (CDL)

To receive a Nevada Commercial Driver License, an applicant must pass additional knowledge and skills tests, as well as meet strict licensing requirements. To obtain more information on Commercial Driver Licensing programs and licensing requirements, you should refer to the state Commercial License Handbook. Any vehicle or combination of vehicles used in commerce to transport passengers or property is considered a commercial motor vehicle if: 

• The vehicle has a GVWR or GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more.
• The vehicle is designed to transport 15 or more passengers.
• The vehicle transports hazardous materials.

Class C Instructional Permit

Anyone who is at least 15 and a half years of age may apply for a Nevada instructional permit. In order to get this permit, you need to fill out an application and show proof of age, name, and Social Security number. You must sign the application in person at a DMV office and have a parent or guardian sign the financial responsibility section. You will then need to pass a vision test and a knowledge exam. The knowledge exam will test your awareness of Nevada traffic laws, safe driving practices, and highway signs and markings. The permit will be valid for twelve months from the time it is issued, and you must carry it with you any time you are operating a motor vehicle. When driving, you must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 years or older and has had at least one year of licensed driving experience. This experienced, licensed driver must also be seated in the front beside you at all times.

Class C Driver License (drivers under 18 years of age)

If you plan on obtaining your driver license when you are 16 or 17 years of age, you must meet all of the following conditions before the DMV will issue you a license, in addition to the requirements above:

• You must complete an approved driver education course that includes behind-the-wheel training if one is offered within a 30-mile radius of your residential address.
• You must have at least 50 hours of supervised driving experience, with at least 10 hours completed in darkness.
• You must maintain a log on a form provided by the DMV containing the dates and times of the hours of supervised driving experience, which then must be signed by a parent or legal guardian. If you are an emancipated minor, a licensed driver who is at least 21 years of age or a licensed driving instructor will need to sign the log.
• You must not be found at fault in a collision nor convicted of a moving traffic violation or a crime involving alcohol or a controlled substance during the 6 months prior to applying for the driver license.
• You must have held the permit for at least 6 months before you can apply for a driver license.

If you are unable to find a driver training course within a 30-mile radius of your home, you must have 50 additional hours of supervised driving experience, note the extra hours in the log, and have the form signed by a qualifying individual.

You must bring your instructional permit, the completed log sheet, an Affidavit for Minor to Be Licensed (form DLD-102), and a Certificate of Completion of a driver education course (or an additional 50 hours of supervised driving experience, as described above) when you come in for the driving skills test.

Once you are issued a driver license, you must adhere to the following restrictions:

• You may not operate a motor vehicle between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. except to drive to or from a scheduled event. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you need to provide evidence of that event in order to avoid being cited.
• For the first six months after being issued your driver license, you may not transport a person under the age of 18 unless he or she is a member of your immediate family. If you violate this provision, the restriction is extended by three additional months on the first offense. Any subsequent violations will result in a fine of $250 and/or extended time set by the court to comply with the requirement. This is neither a moving traffic violation nor grounds for suspension or revocation of your driving privileges.

You will not be stopped for violating only these requirements. Any restriction or suspension that results from a violation of either requirement will remain in effect until the end of the term of restriction or suspension, even if you turn 18 years of age before that time.

If you are a parent and allow a child under 18 to drive without a license, you will be liable for all financial penalties associated with this violation and any other traffic offense your child commits.

Motorcycle Instruction Permit and License (Class M or M – Z)

In order to obtain a Nevada motorcycle instruction permit, you will need to: Be at least 15 (and a half) years old. Pass a motorcycle knowledge test. Pass a vision screening. Pass the general driver license knowledge test. The permit you receive will be valid for eight months from the date it is issued. This permit allows you to practice your motorcycle riding skills while accompanied by a licensed driver who is in direct visual supervision and who:  Has a valid Nevada Motorcycle License. Has at least one year of motorcycle driving experience. Is at least 21 years of age. When you hold a motorcycle instruction permit, the following restrictions will apply: You may only drive during daylight hours. You must ride in direct supervision of a licensed motorcycle driver. You may not drive on any freeways or high-speed roadways. To be eligible for a Nevada motorcycle driver license, you need to: Be at least 16 years old. Pass the general driver license knowledge exam. Pass a vision screening. Pass a motorcycle knowledge test. Pass the Motorcycle Operators Skills Test (MOST).

Similar to the general driver license test, you will have a pre-trip inspection before taking your motorcycle-driving test. You will need to know how to use your motorcycle’s controls and equipment. You will be tested on using the choke, gearshift, brakes, throttle, starter, ignition, signals, lights, horn, and clutch. The examiner will then test you on normal starts and stops, quick stops, turns and other maneuvers. If you have a motorcycle license from another state that uses a testing process like MOST, you can forgo the road test.

Note: Always wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle. You should also wear a face shield or goggles if your motorcycle does not have a windshield or screen.

Driver’s License Restrictions

Many medical conditions impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely. If you have any of these conditions, the state will issue you a restricted license that will allow you to drive under specific conditions. If you have a restricted license and disregard the restrictions, you can be charged with driving without a license. The following is a list of the most common restrictions: 

• Corrective lens needed (Restriction A).
• Daylight driving only (Restriction D).
• Outside rearview mirrors needed (Restriction C).
• Automatic transmission only (Restriction F).
• Seat cushion (Restriction J).
• Restricted to 45 mph (Restriction E).
• Special hand device (Restriction H).
• Extension on foot device (Restriction K).

Restricted licenses may be issued to people with special circumstances, such as certain impairments (drivers who are 14 or older who have shown family hardship or who need to drive to and from school). You will also receive a restricted license after you have served required suspension or revocation periods.

Duplicate License

If your original license is lost, stolen, or destroyed, you must apply for a duplicate immediately. You will need to go to a Drivers License office to apply for a duplicate, and you will be asked to show proof of your identity and age. Accepted as proof will be the same documents you used to get your original license or one of the forms below:

• U.S. Military ID or Military Dependent ID Card
• DD214 Report of Separation, original or certified copy
• Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood, issued by the federal government
• Veterans ID card, with your name, date of birth and photograph
• Permit to re-enter the U.S. (I-327)
• Refugee travel documents
• U.S. Armed Forces Driver License
• Nevada Concealed Weapons Permit
• FAA Pilots License
• Foreign Driver License

License Renewals

The date your license will expire is on the front of your driver's license. You should apply for a renewal before your license expires. DMV will typically send license renewal notices that you should get within 30 days of your license's expiration date. When you renew in person, you may be asked to take a vision screening, a knowledge test, and a road test. The purpose of expiration dates on driver's licenses is so your driving skills and knowledge can be re-evaluated from time to time. DMV will allow certain drivers to renew by Internet or mail if they meet certain requirements. To qualify, you must:

• Have obtained or renewed your license within the last four years;
• Be at least 25 years of age by your next birthday; and
• Not have had more than two moving violations or any license suspension, revocation, cancellation or denial within the last four years.

If you qualify for renewal by Internet or mail, you will be sent a Driver License Renew By Mail Application prior to your license's expiration date. Otherwise you will be sent a post card stating that you must renew in person. Every driver must renew in person once every eight years regardless of driving history. It is your responsibility to renew your license whether or not you receive a notice.

If you come in to renew and you do not have the new license, your old license will be invalidated and DMV will give you a temporary paper interim document that is valid for up to 30 days. Due to the Central Issuance program, DMV offices do not issue new cards over the counter. The cards are produced at a central facility. Because the interim document is not a valid form of identification, you will need to carry your old license with you until you receive your new card in the mail. You should receive your new license within 10 days.

Licensing Fees

If you are 65 or older:

Commercial License Fees: