California requires a written test and a vision screening before you can drive with a supervising adult
To get a California driver's permit, you must visit a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office, pass a written knowledge test, and pass a vision screening. You do not need to have a car or schedule a driving test. The permit itself costs $35 and is valid for 12 months. You can take the written test in English or in one of several other languages the DMV offers.
The permit is the document that allows you to practice driving with a licensed adult age 25 or older sitting next to you. It is not a full driver's license — you cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. except to school, work, or a medical appointment. Once you have held the permit for at least six months (or three months if you are 18 or older), you can schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test at the DMV.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 15 years and 6 months old to get a California driver's permit; there is no upper age limit.
- Bring proof of identity, proof of California residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to the DMV.
- The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices; you must answer at least 38 of 46 questions correctly to pass.
- You can study using the official DMV handbook or take practice tests on the DMV website before you go in.
- After you pass the written test and vision screening, you receive your permit the same day and can begin supervised driving when ready.
What documents you need to bring to the DMV
California requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN. A valid passport, birth certificate, or state ID counts as proof of identity. If you do not have a passport or state ID yet, a birth certificate works, though the DMV prefers documents with a photo.
For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name showing your current California address. A bank statement or credit card statement also works. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you live with a parent or guardian and are not on the utility bill, bring a signed letter from them on their letterhead stating your address, plus a copy of their ID and a recent utility bill or lease in their name.
You will also need your Social Security number or ITIN. If you do not have either, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration or a tax return showing your ITIN. Bring the original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted.
How to prepare for the written knowledge test
The California DMV written test has 46 questions covering traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 38 questions correctly to pass. The test is multiple choice, and you have one chance to pass it during your visit. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day.
The official DMV handbook, called the California Driver Handbook, is free and available on the DMV website. It covers everything on the test. You can read it online, read it as a PDF, or request a printed copy by mail. The DMV also offers free practice tests on its website that simulate the real test format. Taking several practice tests before you go in significantly increases your chances of passing on the first attempt.
Some questions test specific rules — for example, the speed limit in a residential area or what to do at a four-way stop. Others test judgment — for example, what to do if you see a pedestrian stepping into the street. Study the handbook section by section, and use the practice tests to identify which topics you need to review more.
The vision screening and what happens if you fail it
The DMV will test your vision as part of the permit process. You must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. The DMV will test you while wearing them.
If you fail the vision screening, the DMV will not issue your permit that day. You will need to see an eye doctor, get a corrective lens prescription if you need one, and return to the DMV with a vision test form completed by the eye doctor. The form is called the Report of Vision Examination and is available from the DMV or from most optometrists' offices. Once you bring the completed form back, the DMV will retest your vision and issue your permit if you pass.
Scheduling your DMV appointment and what to expect on the day
You can schedule a DMV appointment online through the California DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Walk-ins are accepted at some DMV offices, but appointment wait times are typically shorter. When you schedule, select "Driver License or Identification Card" and then "Original Driver License or Permit" as your transaction type. Choose a location near you and a date that works.
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all your documents. The DMV will verify your identity and residency, take your photo, and conduct the vision screening. Then you will sit at a computer or receive a paper test and take the written knowledge test. If you pass the written test and vision screening, you will pay the $35 permit fee and receive your permit before you leave. The entire process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour.
Bring a pen in case you need to fill out any forms by hand. Do not bring your phone into the testing area — the DMV does not allow it. If you fail the written test, ask the DMV staff what topics you should study before retaking it.
Age requirements and restrictions on your permit
You must be at least 15 years and 6 months old to get a California driver's permit. There is no maximum age. If you are under 18, your permit comes with additional restrictions beyond those for adults.
With a permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult age 25 or older in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. except to or from school, work, or a medical appointment. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, unless it is a medical emergency. These restrictions stay in place until you pass your driving test and receive your full driver's license.
If you are 18 or older when you get your permit, you still cannot drive alone, but the nighttime restriction does not explore. You still cannot use a cell phone except in an emergency.
What to do if you fail the written test or need to renew your permit
If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready at the same DMV office if time allows, or you can schedule another appointment for a different day. There is no additional fee to retake the test. Review the sections of the handbook you found most difficult before your next attempt.
Your permit is valid for 12 months from the date it is issued. If your permit expires before you pass your driving test and get your full license, you can renew it at the DMV. Bring your expired permit, proof of residency, and the $35 renewal fee. You do not have to retake the written test or vision screening unless the DMV asks you to.
If you lose your permit, you can request a replacement at the DMV. Bring your ID and proof of residency. The replacement costs $7. If your address changes, you should update it at the DMV, though it does not affect your permit's validity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test in a language other than English?
Yes. The California DMV offers the written test in English, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Tagalog. When you schedule your appointment or arrive at the DMV, tell the staff which language you need. You may bring a certified interpreter if you need one, though the DMV does not provide interpreters.
Do I need to have a car to get my permit?
No. You do not need to own or have access to a car to get your permit. You only need a car when you are ready to take your behind-the-wheel driving test. Many people borrow a family member's car or use a driving school's car for the test.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration or a tax return showing your ITIN. If you have neither, contact the DMV before your appointment to ask what documents you can bring instead.
How long does it take to get my permit after I pass the test?
You receive your permit the same day you pass the written test and vision screening, before you leave the DMV. You can start practicing with a supervising adult when ready.
Can I drive to school or work at night with my permit?
Yes. The 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. nighttime restriction has exceptions for driving to or from school, work, or a medical appointment. You must be able to show proof if stopped by law enforcement — for example, a school schedule or work schedule.