driver's license

American  

noun

1. a permit, as one issued by a state's motor vehicle bureau, that allows the holder to drive a motor vehicle on public roads.

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Etymology

Origin of driver's license

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Estelle told the officer during questioning that she thought she could vote in local elections because a state motor vehicles department employee had told her when she renewed her driver’s license that she was eligible.

From Salon • May 14, 2026

You can register here — have your state driver’s license or identification card number, the last four digits of your Social Security number and date of birth ready.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

At the time, Antonelli didn’t have a driver’s license and was still finishing school.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 27, 2026

But you also need to prove your true home is elsewhere by doing things such as getting a driver’s license, registering to vote, choosing a primary-care physician, and keeping track of your days, Stephens says.

From Barron's • Apr. 20, 2026

Since I had neither a driver’s license nor a girlfriend, I knew both those things only by hearsay.

From "October Sky" by Homer Hickam