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

Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, whose office regulates motor vehicles, helped to draft legislation that requires anyone riding one of the bikes on the street to have a driver’s license, title, registration and insurance.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 7, 2026

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

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

She picked up her driver’s license from the county courthouse and, on her way home, got a job flipping burgers.

From "Educated" by Tara Westover