Ready to get behind the wheel? Here’s everything you need to know about getting your learner’s permit in California!
Make Sure You’re Eligible
To apply for your learner’s permit, you need to:
- Be at least 15½ years old.
- Be enrolled in or have completed a Driver’s Ed course like Driver.Org.
- Have done 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training (if you’re under 17½).
- Get parental permission if you’re under 18.
Gather Your Documents
Before heading to the DMV, make sure you have:
- Proof of your identity (like a birth certificate, passport, or other official documents).
- Your Social Security Number (if you have one).
- Proof of California residency (like a school document or utility bill).
- Driver’s Ed certificate from Driver.Org
- A signed Parental Consent Form (if you’re under 18).
- Completed DMV application (Form DL 44) – you can grab this online or at the DMV.
Book Your DMV Appointment
- Go to the California DMV website and make an appointment (or walk-in first thing in the morning before the crowds).
- Don’t forget your documents – bring everything you need!
Pass the Written Knowledge Test
- Study up using the California Driver Handbook (you can find it online).
- Take the free DMV Practice Tests at Driver.Org
- When ready you will go to the DMV and take a written test that covers California road signs, traffic laws, and driving rules.
- The test has 46 questions – you’ll need to get 38 right to pass.
Take the Vision Test
- You’ll also need to pass a vision test to make sure your eyesight meets the requirements.
- If you wear glasses or contacts, be sure to bring them!
Pay the Fee
- The learner’s permit fee is around $38.
- You can pay using cash, credit, or debit.
Get Your Learner’s Permit
- If you pass both the written test and the vision test, you’ll get your learner’s permit!
- With this driving permit, you can start practicing driving, but only with a licensed adult (21 or older) in the car.
Know the Rules of the Road
When you have your learner’s permit, there are a few important things to remember:
- Always drive with an adult (21+) in the car.
- No driving alone until you’ve passed your behind-the-wheel driving test and got your full license.
- You can’t drive between 11:00 PM and 5:00 AM unless you’re with your parent or guardian.
- If you want to review the Rules of the Road, go to Driver.Org
Bonus Tips
- Study the Driver’s Ed materials: The written test isn’t too hard, but you’ll need to know your stuff. The California Driver Handbook is your best friend here.
- Get your practice hours in: The more you practice with a licensed adult, the better prepared you’ll be when it’s time for your driving test.
- Stay calm: The DMV test is just a part of the process. You’ve got this!
Getting your learner’s permit is the first big step towards driving! Stay focused, study hard, and take your time practicing behind the wheel. You’ll be driving on your own before you know it.