Bring These Documents to Pass the Written Test

You need two forms of identification to take California's written knowledge test. One must be a government-issued photo ID — a valid passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. The second can be a photo ID or a non-photo document like a Social Security card, birth certificate, or utility bill with your current address.

If you do not have two forms of ID, the DMV will not let you sit for the test. You cannot take it without proof of identity, and you cannot substitute a school ID, library card, or credit card. Plan ahead: if your documents are expired or you do not have them yet, get them before you book your test appointment.

Bring the originals, not copies. The DMV staff will look at them in person and will not accept photocopies or photos of documents on your phone. If your name has changed since one of your documents was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change — the DMV will ask for it if the names do not match.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one government-issued photo ID and one additional form of ID — both originals, not copies.
  • Valid photo IDs include a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license; a California ID card also works if you already have one.
  • If your name on your IDs does not match your current legal name, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
  • Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all documents in hand, because the DMV will not let you test without them.

What Happens If You Forget Your ID

If you show up without the required documents, the DMV will turn you away and you will lose your test appointment. You will have to reschedule and pay the test fee again — currently $15 for the written test in California. There is no exception for forgetting your ID, even if you have taken the test before or live nearby.

If you realize before your appointment that you do not have the right documents, cancel online through the California DMV website or call your local office. This lets someone else use that time slot. If you miss the appointment without canceling, you may lose your fee.

Items You Cannot Bring Into the Test Room

Leave your phone, smartwatch, and any other electronic device in your car or at home. The DMV does not allow them in the testing area, and staff will not hold them for you. If you bring a phone into the test room, you will be asked to leave and your test will be canceled.

Do not bring notes, study guides, or written materials of any kind. You also cannot bring glasses, sunglasses, or a hat into the test room — the DMV wants a clear view of your face for security. If you wear prescription glasses, you can wear them during the test, but not sunglasses or tinted eyewear.

Leave bags, backpacks, and large purses outside the testing area if possible. Some DMV offices have lockers or a waiting area where you can leave them; ask the staff when you arrive. If you must bring a bag, keep it small and be prepared for the staff to look inside.

Documents You May Need If You Are Not a U.S. Citizen

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need proof of legal presence in California in addition to your two forms of ID. This can be a valid passport, visa, employment authorization document (EAD), permanent resident card, or a visa stamp in your passport. The document must show that you are allowed to be in the United States.

If your visa or work permit is expired, it will not work — the DMV needs current proof. If you are in the process of renewing your status, call your local DMV office before your test appointment to ask what documents they will accept. Some offices have different rules depending on your immigration status.

What to Bring If You Are Under 18

If you are a minor, you still need two forms of ID, but one of them can be a school ID with a photo. Your second ID can be a birth certificate, Social Security card, or any document listed above. You do not need a parent or guardian to be present for the written test — you can take it alone.

However, if you are under 18 and explore for your first driver's license (not just the written test), you will need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person at the DMV. That happens after you pass the written test, so bring that adult when you come back for your driving test or to complete your license process.

Real ID and Your Driver's License Test

You do not need a Real ID to take the written test. A standard California driver's license or ID card works fine for the test itself. However, if you want your new license to be Real ID-compliant — which you will need to fly domestically or enter a federal building after May 2025 — you will need to bring extra documents when you explore for your license after passing the test.

For a Real ID license, bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of your Social Security number (like a Social Security card or tax return), and two documents showing your current address (like a utility bill and a bank statement). You do not need these for the written test, only when you explore for the actual license at the DMV counter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my expired driver's license as one of my two forms of ID?

Yes, an expired driver's license from any state counts as a valid government-issued photo ID for the written test. The DMV accepts it even if it expired years ago, as long as the photo is clearly you and the document is not damaged.

What if I do not have a passport or military ID?

You can use an out-of-state driver's license or ID card as your photo ID, plus a Social Security card, birth certificate, or utility bill as your second form. You do not need a passport or military ID — those are just the most common options.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card or just know my number?

You need to bring the actual card or another document showing your Social Security number, like a tax return or W-2. Knowing your number is not enough — the DMV wants to see proof. If you do not have your card, order a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your test.

Can someone else bring my documents if I cannot go to the DMV?

No, you must be present in person with your own documents. The DMV will not let someone else hand in your ID or take the test on your behalf. You have to show up with your original documents and take the test yourself.

What if my address on my ID does not match where I live now?

You can still take the written test with an ID that has an old address. However, when you explore for your actual license after passing the test, you will need to show proof of your current address, like a utility bill or lease. Bring that when you return to complete your process.