What the California driver's license exam tests and how it works
California's driver's license exam has two parts: a written test on traffic laws and road signs, and a behind-the-wheel driving test. You must pass the written test first before you can schedule the driving test. The written test is 36 questions long and you need 30 correct answers to pass. The driving test lasts about 20 minutes and a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) examiner sits in your car while you drive on local roads.
You take the written test at a DMV office on a computer or on paper, depending on the location. The test covers California traffic laws, safe driving practices, and road signs. You can retake the written test the same day if you fail, though you may have to wait a few hours. The driving test happens at a DMV office with an assigned examiner, and you use your own vehicle or a DMV-approved test vehicle.
Both tests must be passed to get your driver's license. If you fail either one, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one day before retesting the written exam and at least two weeks before retesting the driving exam.
Key Takeaways
- The written test is 36 questions on California traffic laws and road signs, and you need 30 correct to pass.
- You must pass the written test before you can take the driving test, which lasts about 20 minutes with a DMV examiner.
- You can retake the written test the same day if you fail, but you must wait at least two weeks between driving test attempts.
- Both tests must be passed to receive your California driver's license.
- The DMV handbook and online practice tests are free resources to study before either exam.
What to study for the written test
The DMV handbook, called the California Driver Handbook, covers everything on the written test. It is free and available online at the DMV website or in print at any DMV office. The handbook includes sections on traffic laws, right-of-way rules, parking, speed limits, alcohol and drug laws, and what different road signs mean. You should read the entire handbook at least once before taking the test.
The DMV also offers free practice tests online that use the same format and types of questions as the real test. Taking several practice tests helps you see which topics you need to study more. Common areas where people struggle include right-of-way rules at intersections, what to do at a yellow light, and the meaning of less common road signs. If English is not your first language, the DMV handbook is available in multiple languages, and the written test itself can be taken in over 30 languages.
How to register and schedule your tests
To take either test, you must first have a valid California instruction permit (learner's permit). You get this by passing the written test at a DMV office. Once you have the permit, you can schedule your driving test through the DMV website, by phone at 1-800-777-0133, or in person at a DMV office. Driving test appointments typically have a wait of several weeks to several months, depending on how busy your local DMV is.
When you go to take the written test, bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, proof of California residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate). If you are under 18, you may need additional documents. Check the DMV website for the current list of acceptable documents, as requirements can change.
For the driving test, you must bring your instruction permit, proof of California residency, proof of identity, and a vehicle that is registered, insured, and passes a safety inspection. The vehicle's registration and proof of insurance must be current. The DMV will check the vehicle's lights, wipers, horn, and brakes before the test begins.
What happens during the driving test
The DMV examiner will ask you to perform specific driving tasks during the test, such as making left and right turns, backing up, parking, and stopping at traffic lights. The examiner watches how you handle the steering wheel, use mirrors, signal before turning, and follow traffic laws. You will drive on regular streets with traffic, not on a closed course. The test usually covers about 5 to 10 miles of driving.
The examiner scores you on safety, vehicle control, and following traffic laws. Common reasons people fail include not coming to a complete stop at stop signs, not checking mirrors and blind spots before turning, speeding, and hitting the curb while parking. If you fail, the examiner will tell you what you did wrong so you can practice those skills before retesting.
You must be at least 16 years old and have held your instruction permit for at least six months (or three months if you are 18 or older) before you can take the driving test. You also must have completed a driver education course if you are under 18, or a behind-the-wheel training course if you are 18 or older and have never held a license.
Retesting if you fail either exam
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at most DMV offices, though you may have to wait several hours and pay the test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the written test. If you fail the driving test, you must wait at least two weeks before scheduling another attempt. You can retake the driving test as many times as you need, but you pay the test fee each time.
When you retake the written test, study the areas where you missed questions. The DMV practice tests show you which topics appear most often, so focus there. For the driving test, practice the specific maneuvers the examiner said you did poorly on, such as parking or lane changes. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after targeted practice.
What you need to know about test fees and documents
The written test fee is included in the instruction permit fee, which costs $36. The driving test fee is $20. These fees do not include the cost of the actual driver's license, which is issued after you pass both tests. The license itself costs between $39 and $48 depending on how long you want it to be valid.
You must bring original documents or certified copies to both tests. Photocopies are not accepted. If your documents are in another language, you must bring an official translation along with the original. The DMV website lists all acceptable documents by category, so check before you go to avoid making a wasted trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test in a language other than English?
Yes. The DMV offers the written test in over 30 languages, including Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese, Korean, and Tagalog. When you schedule your test, tell the DMV which language you want to use. You may need to go to a larger DMV office that offers testing in your language.
What if I fail the driving test twice? Can I still get a license?
Yes. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the driving test. You must wait at least two weeks between attempts and pay the test fee each time. Many people pass on their third or fourth attempt after more practice.
Do I have to use my own car for the driving test?
No. Some DMV offices have test vehicles you can use, though availability is limited and you may have to pay a rental fee. Call your local DMV to ask if they have test vehicles. If you use your own car, it must be registered, insured, and pass a safety check.
How long is my instruction permit valid while I study for the driving test?
Your instruction permit is valid for 12 months from the date you receive it. If it expires before you pass the driving test, you must retake and pass the written test to get a new permit. You cannot drive with an expired permit.
What if I move to another state after I pass the written test but before I take the driving test?
Your California instruction permit is only valid in California. If you move, you will need to get a driver's license in your new state. Some states honor California permits for a short time, but you should contact your new state's DMV to find out their rules before you move.