How Many People in the USA Have a Driver's License
There are an estimated 242.4 million licensed drivers in the United States. The most recent state-by-state count from the Federal Highway Administration put the total at 240 million in 2024. That number has grown by roughly 2% a year since 2021, following a brief dip during the pandemic.
States the Most Drivers
California has 27.8 million licensed drivers, the most of any state. Texas ranks second at 19.5 million, up sharply from 17.7 million in 2020. New York holds fourth place at 12.4 million, and Pennsylvania rounds out the top five at 9.1 million.
Growth in New York and Pennsylvania has been slower than in Sun Belt states, at around 2% since 2020, a gap that tracks broader population movement toward the South and West.
What Percent of Americans Are Licensed to Drive
87% of Americans of driving age hold a driver's license, a figure that rises to 91% among adults 18 and older.
License rates vary widely by state. Delaware has the highest share, at 87%, followed closely by Alabama at 80%. Montana sits at the bottom of the list at just 42%, and its neighboring states aren't far ahead.
Why the Growth Rate Has Slowed
Licensing numbers fell briefly in 2020, then climbed back to their usual pace within a year or two. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft may be part of why growth hasn't fully returned to pre-2010 levels, especially among teenagers, whose licensing rates have dropped steadily since the mid-1990s.
Higher insurance and vehicle costs, more teens living at home longer, and easier access to ride-hailing apps are all factors researchers point to.
Very Driver
Licensed drivers and registered vehicles are counted separately. One driver can own several vehicles, and businesses and fleets register vehicles that aren't tied to any individual driver.