The written test fee is $35 in California

When you take the written knowledge test for a learner's permit at the California Department of Motor Vehicles, you pay a single $35 fee. This covers the test itself and is non-refundable whether you pass or fail on your first attempt.

The $35 fee applies only to the written test. If you need to retake the test because you did not pass, you pay $35 again each time you test. This is separate from any other fees you may owe for the permit card itself or for the behind-the-wheel driving test later.

You pay this fee at the DMV office when you arrive for your test appointment. The DMV accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you are taking the test online through the DMV's remote testing option (available in some counties), you will pay the fee when you register for your test slot.

Key Takeaways

  • The written test fee is $35 and must be paid each time you take the test, including retakes.
  • You pay at the DMV office when you arrive, or online if you are using the remote testing option in your county.
  • The fee is non-refundable regardless of whether you pass or fail.
  • The $35 covers only the written test and does not include the cost of the permit card or the driving test fee.
  • Payment methods at the DMV include cash, check, debit card, and credit card.

When you pay the fee and what happens next

You pay the $35 fee when you check in at the DMV for your written test appointment. Bring your payment method with you; do not assume you can pay online before arriving. If you registered for a remote test through the DMV website, you will pay the fee during registration and receive a confirmation number.

After you pay and complete the test, the DMV scores it when ready. If you pass, you move forward in the permit process. If you do not pass, you can schedule another test appointment and pay the $35 fee again. Most people are allowed to retake the test the same day or within a few days, depending on the DMV office's schedule.

Retake fees and limits on test attempts

California does not cap the number of times you can retake the written test, but you pay $35 each time. If you fail, you must wait at least one day before retaking the test at most DMV offices, though some locations allow same-day retakes depending on staffing.

If you fail the test three times, the DMV may require you to complete a driver training course before you can test again. This is not automatic and depends on your age and the DMV's assessment, but it is a possibility if you struggle with the written material. The training course has its own cost, which varies by provider.

What the written test covers and how to prepare

The written test has 36 questions and covers California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 30 questions correctly to pass. The test is based on the California Driver Handbook, which the DMV publishes free online and in print at any DMV office.

You do not pay to study or to get the handbook. The DMV website offers free practice tests that mirror the real test format. Many people study the handbook for a few weeks before testing and do not need to retake the test. Spending time on free study materials before you pay the $35 fee reduces the chance you will need to pay it multiple times.

Remote testing option and where it is available

Some California counties offer remote written testing, which means you take the test online from home instead of at a DMV office. The $35 fee still applies. You must register in advance through the DMV website, pay the fee during registration, and take the test on a computer with a webcam and stable internet connection.

Remote testing is not available in all counties. Check the DMV website or call your local office to confirm whether your county offers it. If it does, you can often get a test appointment faster than you would at a physical office, which may save you time even though the fee is the same.

Combining the written test fee with other permit costs

The $35 written test fee is only one part of getting a learner's permit in California. After you pass the written test, you will need to pay for the permit card itself, which costs $35. Later, when you are ready to take the behind-the-wheel driving test, that test costs $20.

In total, a learner's permit and driving test will cost you at least $90 if you pass everything on the first attempt. If you retake the written test once, add another $35. Keep this in mind when budgeting for your license process, and plan your study time to avoid unnecessary retake fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund if I fail the written test?

No. The $35 fee is non-refundable whether you pass or fail. You must pay the fee again if you retake the test.

Do I have to pay the $35 fee every time I retake the test?

Yes. Each test attempt, including retakes, costs $35. There is no limit on how many times you can retake it, but you will pay the fee each time.

Can I pay the written test fee online before I go to the DMV?

You cannot prepay at a physical DMV office. If you are using remote testing, you pay online during registration. Otherwise, bring your payment method to the DMV on the day of your test.

What if I do not have $35 cash on the day of my test?

The DMV accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Bring one of these payment methods. If you cannot pay, you will not be able to test that day and will need to reschedule.

Is the $35 fee the same for all ages?

Yes. The written test fee is $35 for everyone, regardless of age. Minors and adults pay the same amount.