What You Need to Do to Get a California Driver's License
To get your first California driver's license, you will take a written test, a driving test, and a vision test at a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. You must bring specific documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The entire process takes two visits to the DMV — one for the written test and one for the driving test — and costs $39 for a five-year license or $69 for a ten-year license.
California does not require you to hold a learner's permit before taking the driving test, though many people do. You can walk into a DMV office, pass the written test, schedule a driving test, and take it the same day if you pass the vision screening. However, most people schedule the driving test for a later date because they need time to practice.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, proof of California residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number to your first DMV visit.
- The written test covers California traffic laws and road signs; you must answer at least 38 of 46 questions correctly to pass.
- You can schedule your driving test when ready after passing the written test, but you do not have to take it the same day.
- For the driving test, you must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and has working safety equipment; the DMV examiner will ride with you for about 20 minutes.
- You can book your DMV appointment online through the California DMV website or by phone at 1-800-777-0133.
Documents You Must Bring to Your First DMV Visit
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. A photocopy is not acceptable. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or travel document. You also need a document that proves you live in California and was issued within the last 60 days — a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail all work. A piece of mail addressed to you at your current address is the fastest option.
Bring proof of your Social Security number. An original Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form all work. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a California driver's license, but you will need to bring additional documents and the process is different; contact your local DMV office for details.
Bring a form of identification with your photograph. A passport, passport card, or out-of-state driver's license all work. If you do not have a photo ID, bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a school ID and a birth certificate.
If you are under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian. They must sign your process in front of the DMV clerk. You will also need a completed Department of Motor Vehicles Form DL 44, which you can fill out at home or at the DMV office.
How to Schedule Your DMV Appointment
Book your appointment online at dmv.ca.gov or call 1-800-777-0133. Online booking is faster and you can choose your preferred date and time. The website shows available appointments at DMV offices near you, usually several weeks in advance.
Walk-in appointments are available at some DMV offices, but wait times are often two to four hours. If you book an appointment online, your wait is usually 15 to 30 minutes. Some DMV offices are busier than others; if your local office shows no appointments for several weeks, try offices in nearby cities.
Bring your appointment confirmation number or receipt when you arrive. If you booked online, you can print your confirmation or show it on your phone. Arrive 10 minutes early with all your documents.
Taking the Written Test at the DMV
The written test has 46 multiple-choice questions about California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 38 questions correctly to pass. The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, and what different road signs mean. You can take the test in English or in one of 32 other languages.
You can study using the California DMV handbook, which is free and available online at dmv.ca.gov or in print at any DMV office. The handbook covers everything on the test. Many people study for one to two weeks before taking the test.
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at most DMV offices, though you may have to wait. You can retake the test as many times as you need. Each attempt does not cost extra money.
Scheduling and Taking Your Driving Test
After you pass the written test, the DMV clerk will ask if you want to schedule your driving test. You can schedule it for the same day, a few days later, or several weeks later — whatever works for you. If you want to take it the same day, the DMV will check your vision and you can take the test when ready if you pass.
For your driving test, bring a vehicle that is currently registered in California, has valid insurance, and has working brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name. You can borrow a friend's or family member's car. Bring proof of insurance and the vehicle registration.
The DMV examiner will ride with you for about 20 minutes. You will drive on local streets and demonstrate basic skills like turning, parking, stopping at stop signs, and following traffic laws. The examiner will tell you where to drive. You do not need to parallel park, but you may need to back up or make a three-point turn.
If you fail the driving test, you can retake it. Most DMV offices allow you to schedule another test within a few days or weeks. You do not have to retake the written test.
What Happens After You Pass Both Tests
After you pass the driving test, the DMV will take your photograph and issue your temporary driver's license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 60 days while the DMV prints your permanent license. Your permanent license will arrive in the mail within two to three weeks.
Your temporary license has the same legal status as your permanent license — you can drive with it when ready. Keep it with you while you drive. When your permanent license arrives, keep the temporary one until the permanent one shows up, in case there is a delay.
If you are under 18, your license will have restrictions. You cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. for the first 12 months, except for school, work, or emergencies. You cannot use a cell phone while driving. These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after one year, whichever comes first.
Fees and Payment Methods
A five-year driver's license costs $39. A ten-year driver's license costs $69. You can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card at the DMV. Some DMV offices accept checks, but call ahead to confirm.
If you are under 18, the fee is the same. If you are 62 or older, a five-year license costs $14 and a ten-year license costs $24. If you have a disability or low income, you may be able to pay a reduced fee; ask the DMV clerk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a learner's permit before I can take the driving test?
No. California does not require a learner's permit for adults. You can take the written test and driving test without holding a permit first. However, many people get a learner's permit to practice driving legally before taking the test.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can retake it. Most DMV offices let you schedule another test within a few days or weeks. You do not have to retake the written test. There is no extra fee for retaking the driving test.
Can I take the written test in a language other than English?
Yes. The DMV offers the written test in 32 languages including Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese, Korean, and Tagalog. Tell the DMV clerk which language you need when you arrive.
How long does the whole process take from start to finish?
Most people complete both tests within two to four weeks. The written test takes about 30 minutes. The driving test takes about 20 minutes. Wait times at the DMV vary; booking an appointment online usually means a 15 to 30 minute wait.
What if I move to a different California county after I get my license?
You do not need to get a new license. Your California driver's license is valid statewide. You only need to update your address with the DMV if you move, which you can do online or by mail.