You've heard the joke that the job's not done until the paperwork's finished. BMV, we're pointing fingers.

When you go to the BMV, you need to bring

1. a source of primary identification, like your passport (the real one, not the one you bought at Comic-Con that says you're from Narnia).
2. proof of residency.
3. something that shows your social security number.

There are a bunch of corner cases here: if your name has been changed, if you're married, if you've moved from out of state, or if you're a non-U.S. citizen. If you fall into one of these categories, do your homework.

Pro tip: Make sure your documents are on the state's accepted list first before waiting in line, folks. (And make sure you have all of them, too.)

You'll also have to take a vision test. If you wear glasses for it, you'll have to wear 'em whenever you drive. If your vision's really bad, you'll be referred to a vision specialist. Sound onerous as a restriction? Not if you're another driver on the road.

Last but not least, you'll need to foot the bill. Who are we kidding? Have Mom foot the bill.

Speaking of your mom—no, seriously—if you're under 18, your license application must be signed by a parent or guardian in front of the examiner or a notary public. So, don't try to forge it.