You can take California's written test in Chinese, but the behind-the-wheel test is only in English
California's Department of Motor Vehicles offers the written knowledge test in Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese), Spanish, Vietnamese, Korean, and several other languages. However, the behind-the-wheel driving test — the part where an examiner sits in your car and watches you drive — is conducted only in English. You will need to understand and follow spoken English instructions during that exam, even if you took the written test in another language.
This split matters because many people pass the written test in their preferred language but then face a barrier at the driving test. If you are not comfortable understanding English directions while driving, you may want to prepare differently or bring a licensed interpreter, though interpreter rules have specific limits.
Key Takeaways
- The written knowledge test is available in Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese) at California DMV locations, but you must request it when you schedule or arrive.
- The behind-the-wheel driving test is only in English, and the examiner will give instructions like "turn left at the next light" that you must understand in real time.
- You can bring a licensed interpreter to the driving test, but they cannot sit in the car or communicate with the examiner — they can only help you understand what the examiner says before you drive.
- Preparing for the written test in Chinese does not prepare you for the spoken English commands during the driving test, so practice listening to driving instructions in English separately.
How to request the written test in Chinese
When you schedule your DMV appointment online or by phone, tell the DMV staff that you want to take the written test in Chinese. You can also request it in person when you arrive for your appointment, though scheduling ahead is more reliable because some locations may have limited availability for language-specific tests.
The DMV's online appointment system (at dmv.ca.gov) has a language selection dropdown. Choose Chinese (Mandarin) or Chinese (Cantonese) depending on which you read more fluently. If you book by phone, call your local DMV office directly and state your language preference. Bring your identification and any documents the DMV requires for your test class.
What the written test covers in Chinese
The written test is the same 36 questions regardless of language — it tests your knowledge of California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The questions are translated into Chinese, so you read them on a computer screen in Chinese and select your answer. You need to pass with a score of at least 83 percent (at least 30 out of 36 correct).
The test covers topics like right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, pedestrian safety, and what different road signs mean. You can study using the California DMV Handbook, which is available in Chinese on the DMV website. Many people also use practice tests online or through apps that offer Chinese-language versions.
Why the driving test is English-only and what that means for you
The behind-the-wheel test is not translated because the examiner needs to give you real-time instructions while you are driving, and the state has standardized this test in English across all locations and examiners. The examiner will say things like "turn right at the next intersection," "pull over to the curb," or "show me how you would make a three-point turn." You must understand these instructions when ready and carry them out safely.
This is a significant hurdle if English is not your strong language. You will be nervous, focused on driving, and hearing instructions you may not fully understand. The examiner is not testing your English — they are testing your driving — but you cannot pass if you do not understand what they are asking you to do.
Using an interpreter during the driving test
California allows you to bring a licensed interpreter to your driving test. The interpreter can sit in the waiting area and help you understand what the examiner explains before you get in the car. However, the interpreter cannot sit in the vehicle with you during the test, cannot communicate with the examiner, and cannot help you once the test begins.
To arrange an interpreter, contact your local DMV office at least one week before your test and ask about their interpreter policy. Some offices have a list of approved interpreters; others allow you to bring your own. If you bring your own, they must be a professional interpreter (not a family member or friend) and may need to show credentials. There is usually no fee to the DMV for using an interpreter, but you may have to pay the interpreter directly.
Preparing for the English-language driving test
Start listening to English driving instructions now, even if you have not yet passed the written test. Watch YouTube videos of California driving tests, where you can hear the exact phrasing examiners use. Practice with a friend or family member who speaks English — have them sit in the passenger seat and give you directions like "turn left," "merge onto the freeway," or "parallel park." This trains your ear and your reflexes together.
Common commands you will hear include: "proceed," "turn right/left," "merge," "pull over," "stop," "yield," "accelerate," "slow down," "show me your turn signal," and "make a three-point turn." Familiarize yourself with these phrases so that when the examiner says them during your test, you are not hearing them for the first time. Many people who speak English as a second language find that repeated exposure before the test makes a huge difference.
What happens if you do not understand an instruction during the test
If the examiner gives you an instruction and you do not understand it, you can ask them to repeat it. However, asking for repetition takes time, and the examiner may mark it as hesitation or unsafe driving if you delay too long. The best approach is to prepare so thoroughly that you understand the instructions the first time.
If you genuinely cannot understand the examiner despite preparation, you can request to retake the test with an interpreter present (though the interpreter still cannot sit in the car). Some people also choose to take the test multiple times if they fail the first attempt — there is no limit on retakes, though you do have to pay the test fee each time and wait for the next available appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the behind-the-wheel driving test in Chinese?
No. California only offers the driving test in English. The written test is available in Chinese, but the examiner will give all instructions in English during the behind-the-wheel portion. You should prepare by listening to English driving commands before your test.
Do I need to bring documents to prove I speak Chinese?
No. When you request the written test in Chinese, the DMV does not ask for proof of language ability. You straightforward tell them which language you want, and they provide the test in that language. If you cannot read Chinese well, you can request the test in English instead.
What if I fail the driving test because I did not understand an instruction?
You can retake the test. There is no limit on how many times you can take the driving test. You will need to pay the test fee again and schedule another appointment. Use the time between tests to practice listening to English driving instructions.
Can a family member interpret for me during the driving test?
No. California requires a professional, licensed interpreter if you bring one. Family members and friends cannot interpret during the test. You can ask your local DMV office for a list of approved interpreters or information on how to bring your own professional interpreter.
Is the written test harder in Chinese than in English?
The test content is identical — same 36 questions, same passing score of 83 percent. The only difference is the language the questions are written in. If you read Chinese fluently, taking the test in Chinese may actually be easier for you than taking it in English.