Probably different from state to state but where I’m at you need to take a class to get your license before turning 18. It’s not a mandatory class, you have to pay for it. 18 and after you use need to pass a written test to get your learner’s permit then a road test to get a permanent license. Things may have changed since I got mine but I’m pretty sure it’s the same
A driver’s ed class is required to get started towards being able to legally drive, usually conducted by or organized by the high school.
Then you have to pass a fairly picky written test and a token practical test and then never get re evaluated in any way for years and years.
Probably different from state to state but where I’m at you need to take a class to get your license before turning 18. It’s not a mandatory class, you have to pay for it. 18 and after you use need to pass a written test to get your learner’s permit then a road test to get a permanent license. Things may have changed since I got mine but I’m pretty sure it’s the same