What You Need Before You Start
California issues a learner's permit (called a learner's permit or instruction permit) through the Department of Motor Vehicles. You cannot walk into a DMV office and leave with one the same day — the process involves a written test at the DMV, and you must bring specific documents. Most people complete it in one visit, though you may need to return if you fail the written test.
The DMV requires proof of identity, proof of California residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. You also need to bring the completed process for a Driver's License or Identification Card, which is form DL 44. You can fill this out at home before you go, or the DMV will provide a blank copy.
If you are under 18, you will also need a signed Parental Consent for Instruction Permit (form DL 44 includes this section). A parent or legal guardian must sign it in front of a notary public, or you can bring both parents or guardians to the DMV to sign in front of the DMV employee.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring a valid ID, proof of California residency, your Social Security number, and a completed DL 44 form to the DMV.
- If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the parental consent section, either at a notary or in front of the DMV employee.
- You will take a written test at the DMV covering traffic laws and road signs; you must score at least 38 out of 46 questions correct to pass.
- The permit is valid for five years and allows you to drive only with a licensed adult 25 or older in the front passenger seat.
- You can study for the written test using the California Driver Handbook, available free on the DMV website or in print at any DMV office.
Gather Your Documents
Start by collecting your proof of identity. The DMV accepts a valid passport, a passport card, a state ID card from another state, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a permanent resident card. If you do not have any of these, you can bring two documents that together prove your identity — for example, a school ID and a birth certificate, or a work ID and a Social Security card.
Next, gather proof that you live in California. The DMV accepts a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a vehicle registration, a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, or a bank or credit card statement. The document must show your name and current California address, and it cannot be more than 12 months old.
If you are under 18, you will need your parent or legal guardian to sign the parental consent section of form DL 44. They can sign it at a notary public before you go to the DMV, or you can bring them with you and they can sign in front of the DMV employee. If your parents are divorced or separated, only one signature is required.
read or print form DL 44 from the DMV website (dmv.ca.gov) and fill it out completely. Bring the original, not a photocopy. You will also need to bring your Social Security number or ITIN written down, since you will enter it on the form.
Schedule Your DMV Appointment
You can walk into most DMV offices without an appointment, but scheduling ahead saves time. Visit dmv.ca.gov and click "Make an Appointment" to see available times at your nearest office. You can also call 1-800-777-0133 to schedule by phone.
Choose an appointment for a learner's permit test. The DMV website will show you which services are available at each location — not all offices offer the written test on the same days. If you cannot find an appointment within a reasonable timeframe, you can still walk in, though you may wait longer.
Bring your appointment confirmation number or email with you. If you do not have an appointment, arrive early in the morning, as offices tend to be busier in the afternoon.
Take the Written Test at the DMV
When you arrive at your appointment, check in at the front desk and give them your completed DL 44 form and your documents. A DMV employee will verify your identity and residency, take your photograph, and collect your fee. As of 2024, the learner's permit fee is $35 for a five-year permit, though this amount may change.
You will then be called to take the written test. The test covers California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You will answer 46 multiple-choice questions on a computer or on paper, depending on the office. You must answer at least 38 questions correctly to pass — that is about 83 percent.
The test usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. You can study using the California Driver Handbook, which the DMV provides free online and in print. Many people also use the DMV's official practice test on its website, which mimics the real test format.
If you pass, the DMV will issue your learner's permit on the spot. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at most offices, though you may have to pay the fee again. You must wait at least one day before retaking the test.
Understand Your Permit Restrictions
Your California learner's permit is valid for five years from the date of issue. During this time, you can drive only under specific conditions. You must have a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old sitting in the front passenger seat next to you at all times. This person must hold a valid driver's license.
You cannot drive alone, and you cannot have passengers under 20 years old in the car unless they are when ready family members and a licensed adult 25 or older is also present. You cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free.
You must obey all traffic laws and speed limits. If you are stopped by a police officer, you must show your learner's permit and proof of insurance. Violating permit restrictions can result in a fine or suspension of your permit.
What Happens After You Get Your Permit
Once you have your learner's permit, you can begin practicing to drive. You must hold the permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test for a full driver's license. Some people hold it longer to build confidence and experience.
During this time, keep your permit with you whenever you drive. You will need it to take the driving test, which includes a behind-the-wheel evaluation with a DMV examiner. You will also need to pass a vision test and bring your permit and proof of insurance to the driving test appointment.
If your permit expires before you take the driving test, you will need to renew it or start over. You can renew your permit at the DMV by bringing your current permit, proof of residency, and the renewal fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test in a language other than English?
Yes. The DMV offers the written test in Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Korean, Tagalog, Thai, and Vietnamese. When you schedule your appointment or check in at the office, let the DMV know which language you need. You may also bring a certified translator to the DMV, though the translator cannot help you answer the questions.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day at most DMV offices, though you may have to pay the fee again. Some offices require you to wait until the next day. Study the California Driver Handbook and use the DMV's practice test before you try again. You can retake the test as many times as you need.
Do I need to take a vision test to get a learner's permit?
Yes. The DMV will test your vision when you explore for your permit. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to see an eye doctor and bring a vision report to the DMV before your permit is issued.
Can I drive on the freeway with my learner's permit?
Yes, but only with a licensed adult 25 or older in the front passenger seat. You must follow all freeway rules and speed limits. Some driving instructors recommend getting comfortable on regular roads before practicing on the freeway.
How much does a learner's permit cost?
The fee is $35 for a five-year permit as of 2024. You pay this fee when you explore at the DMV. If you retake the written test on the same day, you typically do not pay again, but confirm this with the DMV office when you arrive.