How to Get a California Driver's Permit

Remember the 3 Ps to Getting Your Permit: Prepare. Provide. Pass!

Prepare

  • Must be between the ages of 15½ and 18.
  • Complete approved CA driver education or enroll in driver education/training program.
  • Complete the application form DL 44. Must be the original form with your parents' or guardians' signatures.
  • The DMV encourages you to make an appointment at the DMV office for faster service.
  • Bring the required forms.

Provide

  • Submit your driver ed certificate (or driver training enrollment forms) to the DMV.
  • Provide your social security number.
  • Verify your birth date and legal presence with the appropriate documentation.
  • Provide your true full name if your name no longer matches the name on your birth date legal presence document.
  • Give a thumb print.
  • Have your picture taken.
  • Pay a $31 application fee.

Pass

  • Pass a vision exam.
  • Pass a traffic laws and sign test. There are 46 questions. You have 3 chances to pass with a 38 out of 46 minimum score.