What you need to bring to the DMV
California requires six documents or pieces of information before you can take the learner's permit test. Bring them all in one trip — the DMV will not let you test without them, and you cannot come back the next day with what you forgot.
You need proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consulate ID), proof of California residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 62 days), your Social Security number or an ITIN, a completed DL 44 form (the process for a driver's license or permit), proof of your legal name if it differs from your birth certificate, and proof of your date of birth if your identity document does not show it. If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian and their ID as well.
Check the DMV website for your local office's current hours and whether it requires an appointment. Many offices now require you to book a time slot online before you arrive.
Key Takeaways
- Bring all six required documents in one visit: proof of identity, California residency, Social Security number, completed DL 44 form, proof of legal name, and proof of date of birth.
- If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present with their own ID.
- The written test covers California traffic laws and road signs and you must score at least 38 out of 46 questions correct to pass.
- Your learner's permit is valid for 12 months and allows you to drive only with a licensed adult 25 or older in the front passenger seat.
- The DMV charges a fee that varies by age; check your local office's website for the exact amount before you go.
The written test and what it covers
The California learner's permit test is a written exam of 46 multiple-choice questions about traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 38 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages, and you can request a reader or other accommodations when you book your appointment or arrive at the DMV.
The test draws from the California Driver Handbook, which the DMV publishes free online. Most questions ask you to identify what a sign means, what the speed limit is in a given situation, or what you should do at a red light or stop sign. A smaller number ask about parking rules, right-of-way, and what to do if you see a police officer or emergency vehicle.
You can take the test as many times as you need. If you fail, you can usually retake it the same day or book another appointment. There is a fee each time you test.
How the permit works once you have it
Your California learner's permit is valid for 12 months from the date the DMV issues it. During that time, you can drive only if a licensed driver who is 25 years old or older is sitting in the front passenger seat next to you. That adult must hold a valid driver's license — a permit or suspended license does not count.
The permit does not let you drive alone, at night without supervision, or on the freeway without a licensed adult present. You cannot use a phone while driving, even hands-free, except in a true emergency. If you are under 18, you also cannot drive with passengers under 20 unless a parent or guardian is in the car.
Keep your permit with you whenever you drive. If a police officer stops you and you cannot show it, you can be cited even if you have it at home.
Moving from permit to provisional license
After you have held your learner's permit for at least six months (or until you turn 18, whichever is longer), you can take the behind-the-wheel driving test to get a provisional driver's license. This test is conducted by a DMV examiner who rides with you in your own car and watches you drive for about 20 minutes.
The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and backing up. They will also watch how you handle traffic, obey signs, and respond to other drivers. You must pass this test to move forward. If you fail, you can retake it after waiting a set number of days.
Once you pass the driving test, you receive a provisional license valid until you turn 18. A provisional license lets you drive alone during the day but has restrictions on night driving and passengers under 20. At 18, it converts to a full driver's license with no restrictions.
Fees and what affects the cost
The DMV charges a fee to issue a learner's permit, and the amount depends on your age and how long the permit is valid. Fees change periodically, so check your local DMV office's website or call before you go. You typically pay when you submit your process, whether you pass the test or not.
If you fail the written test and retake it, you pay a separate fee for each attempt. The same applies to the driving test — each time you take it, there is a fee.
Some DMV offices accept cash, debit, and credit cards. A few accept only certain payment methods, so confirm what your local office takes before you arrive.
What to do if you fail the written test
If you do not pass the written test on your first try, you can retake it. Most DMV offices let you schedule another test the same day, though some require you to wait a set number of days or book a new appointment. Each attempt costs a fee.
Before you retake the test, review the sections of the California Driver Handbook that cover the topics you missed. The DMV website lists which handbook chapters correspond to each part of the test. Many people find it helpful to take practice tests online — several free versions are available through the DMV website and other sources.
Bring the same documents you brought the first time. You do not need to resubmit your DL 44 form if you already did, but confirm with your local office what paperwork they need for a retake.
Renewing or replacing your permit
Your learner's permit expires 12 months after the DMV issues it. If you have not yet passed the driving test, you can renew it by visiting the DMV, paying a renewal fee, and taking the written test again. You do not need to bring all six original documents — bring your expired permit and proof of California residency.
If your permit is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at the DMV. Bring your ID and proof of residency. The DMV will issue a new permit with the same expiration date as the original, so you do not lose time.
If your address changes while you hold a permit, you must update it with the DMV within 10 days. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test in a language other than English?
Yes. The DMV offers the test in Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Korean, and several other languages. When you book your appointment online or call the DMV, tell them which language you need. If you need a reader or interpreter, request that when you schedule.
What happens if I move to California from another state while I have a learner's permit?
You must get a California learner's permit. Your out-of-state permit is not valid in California. Bring your out-of-state permit, proof of California residency, and the other required documents to the DMV. You will need to take the California written test.
Do I need to take a driver education course before I get my permit?
No. California does not require driver education to take the written test or get a learner's permit. However, if you are under 18, you must complete a six-hour online or classroom course before you can take the driving test for a provisional license.
Can someone else pick up my permit if I cannot go to the DMV?
No. You must be present in person to explore for and receive your learner's permit. The DMV requires your signature on the DL 44 form and will not issue a permit without it.
How long does it take to get my permit after I pass the test?
The DMV issues your permit the same day you pass the written test. You will receive a temporary paper permit that is valid when ready, and a plastic card will arrive by mail within two weeks.