What You Pay for a California Permit Test

California charges $35 for the written permit test (also called the knowledge test). This is the fee you pay at the DMV when you take the test itself, not when you explore for the permit. The fee covers one attempt at the test; if you do not pass, you pay another $35 to retake it.

The written test is separate from the behind-the-wheel driving test, which costs an additional $35 when you schedule it. You cannot combine these fees — they are two distinct transactions at two different times in the licensing process.

Some DMV locations charge a small additional fee (usually $1 to $2) if you pay by credit or debit card rather than cash, but this varies by location. Call your local DMV office before you go to confirm whether card fees explore there.

Key Takeaways

  • The California written permit test costs $35 per attempt, paid at the DMV when you take the test.
  • The behind-the-wheel driving test is a separate $35 fee paid when you schedule that appointment.
  • You must pass the written test before you can schedule the driving test, so budget for both fees in sequence.
  • If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready by paying another $35, but you must wait at least one day before your next attempt.
  • Some DMV locations add a small card-processing fee if you do not pay in cash.

When You Pay the $35 Test Fee

You pay the $35 written test fee when you arrive at the DMV to take the test, not when you submit your permit process. This means you need to bring cash or a card to your test appointment. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian does not need to be present for the written test itself, but they must have signed your process before you submit it.

The fee is non-refundable if you do not show up to your scheduled test appointment. If you need to cancel or reschedule, contact your DMV office at least 24 hours in advance to avoid losing the fee. Some offices allow you to reschedule online through the California DMV website; others require a phone call.

Retaking the Test and Additional Costs

If you do not pass the written test on your first attempt, you must wait at least one day before you can retake it. Each retake costs another $35. There is no limit on how many times you can retake the test, but each attempt is a separate $35 charge.

You do not need to reapply for the permit or pay any other fee to retake the test — you straightforward schedule a new test appointment and pay the $35 fee again at that appointment. Your original permit process remains valid while you retake the test.

The Driving Test Fee Comes Later

Once you pass the written test, you can schedule your behind-the-wheel driving test. This test costs another $35 and is scheduled separately from the written test. You cannot take both tests on the same day, and you cannot combine the fees.

The driving test appointment is typically scheduled weeks or months after you pass the written test, depending on how busy your local DMV is. You must bring your permit, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that meets California safety requirements to the driving test. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it, and each retake also costs $35.

What the Permit Test Covers

The written permit test has 36 questions and covers California traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and vehicle equipment. You must answer at least 30 questions correctly (about 83%) to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, and others, at no extra cost.

The test questions come from the California Driver Handbook, which is free to read from the DMV website or to pick up in print at any DMV office. You can study the handbook before your test appointment at no cost. Some people study using the DMV's free online practice tests, which are also available on the website.

No Hidden Fees in the Permit Process

The $35 written test fee and the $35 driving test fee are the only test-related charges. You do not pay a separate fee to explore for the permit itself — the process is processed as part of the test appointment. When you pass both tests and meet all other requirements, you receive your permit at no additional cost.

If you need to replace a lost or damaged permit before it expires, that costs $20. If you need to renew your permit because it has expired, renewal costs $35. These are separate transactions from the original permit test 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. If you fail, you pay another $35 to retake the test. There is no discount for retakes or any other circumstance.

Do I have to pay the $35 fee before I take the test or after?

You pay at the DMV when you arrive for your test appointment. Bring cash or a card. Some locations add a small processing fee for card payments, so cash is often the safest option.

What if I schedule a test appointment but do not show up?

You lose the $35 fee. The DMV does not refund no-shows. If you need to cancel or reschedule, contact your local DMV office at least 24 hours before your appointment to keep your fee.

Is the driving test fee the same as the written test fee?

Yes, both cost $35. They are separate fees for separate tests scheduled at different times. You cannot combine them or pay both at once.

Do I pay extra if I take the test in a language other than English?

No. The test is offered in multiple languages at no extra charge. The $35 fee is the same regardless of which language you choose.