How to Get a California Driver’s Permit: A Complete Guide

Your California provisional instruction permit, or learner’s permit, is the place to start if you’re looking to become a driver. Under California’s Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) Program, every first-time driver under 18 needs to drive under a provisional instruction permit for at least six months before they can take the driving test.

In this guide, we will go over everything you need to know about getting your permit so know what to do and what to expect.

California Learner’s Permit Requirements

If you are at least 15½ years old, you qualify to submit your application for a California driver’s permit. There are additional requirements depending on your age as well.

• Permit rules if you are between 15 ½ and 17 ½ – You need to complete an approved driver’s education course licensed by the California DMV or be currently enrolled in an integrated driver’s ed and driver training program.

You will need to fill out the California Permit Application DL-44 and have your parents or legal guardians sign it. When they sign, they are pledging that they will take financial responsibility for you on their auto insurance.

Important Note: Your permit will not be valid until you enroll in a behind-the-wheel driver training program or turn 17½.

• Permit rules if you are between 17 ½ and 18 – You may get your permit without your Driver’s Ed Certificate or driver’s training, but you can not take your road test for your driver’s license until you turn 18.

• Permit rules if you are over 18 – You do not need to take driver’s education or driver’s training, but you still need to obtain a permit before you can apply for your license.

What Documents Do You Need to Apply for a California Driver’s Permit?

Once you meet the requirements listed above, you’ll need to collect the following documents to take with you to the CA DMV. All proof documents MUST be readable original copies. Photocopies, or originals that cannot be read due to damage, will not be accepted.

• Form DL-44. If you are between 15½ and 17½, you will need your parents or legal guardians to sign it.
• Proof of Age and Identity.
• Proof of Residence (if you are over 18).
• The application fee. You can find the most current fees here.
• Social Security Number.
• Proof of completion of Driver’s Education or active enrollment in an integrated Driver’s education and behind the wheel training program (if you are under 17 ½).

How to Get a Learner’s Permit in California

1. Schedule an appointment at the CA DMV. We recommend booking an appointment with your nearest California DMV office. Some locations won’t let you in if you don’t book in advance. It’s also a huge time saver at other locations! Test areas will not administer the written test after 4:30 pm, so it pays to have an appointment ahead of time. You can also read our guide on the best time(s) to go to the DMV.
2. Submit your paperwork.
3. Pass the vision screening. You’re allowed to wear glasses or contacts if you need them – be sure to let your examiner know so that your permit will have the correct restriction.
4. Provide a thumbprint and have your picture taken.
5. Pass the written knowledge test. The California knowledge test is a multiple-choice written exam that tests your knowledge of driving laws, driver’s safety, and the ability to identify street signs. It consists of 46 questions, and you must answer at least 38 questions correctly to pass.
   • If you fail – Minors who fail the written exam can retake it seven days later. Applicants over the age of 18 can retake the test immediately. If you fail the test three times, you’ll need to start the application process over again and pay the fees a second time. Check if you’re ready for your test with our free CA practice test!
6. Pay the required fees. Cash, credit/debit cards, checks, or money orders are all acceptable options.
7. Validate your permit. Your permit won’t be valid until it’s signed by a driving instructor or you turn 17½. Note that your application is valid for 12 months. If you don’t activate your permit with enough time to complete the required six months of driving experience, you’ll need to apply a second time.

What are the California Driver’s Permit Restrictions?

All learner’s permit holders, regardless of age, must adhere to the following restrictions:

• Supervised Driving: You must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old and holds a valid California driver’s license. This individual must be seated in the front passenger seat at all times while you are driving.
• Time Restrictions: You are prohibited from driving between 11 PM and 5 AM unless accompanied by a licensed driver aged 25 or older.
• Passenger Restrictions: For the first 12 months after obtaining your permit, you cannot transport passengers under 20 years old unless accompanied by a licensed driver aged 25 or older.
• Electronic Devices: You are not permitted to use a cellphone (with or without a hands-free device) or any other electronic communication device while driving.
• Zero Tolerance for Alcohol: There is a zero-tolerance law for consuming alcohol under the age of 21.

How Do You Get an Unrestricted License?

First, you have to practice under your California provisional instruction permit. This gives you time to practice behind the wheel before you apply for an unrestricted license.

You need to meet the following requirements before you can apply for your unrestricted license:

• Hold your instruction permit for at least 6 months (if under 18).
• Be at least 16 years old.
• Complete a DMV-approved driver training program (if under 18).
• Complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night.
• Pass the behind-the-wheel driving test.

If you are over 18, you only need to pass the behind-the-wheel test after practicing with your permit.

That’s It!

Getting your California driver’s permit is an exciting milestone. Don’t get held up by re-tests! Check out our easy-to-understand California DMV manual and exam simulator tests.