The California DMV Permit Test Has 46 Questions

The California written permit test contains 46 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 39 of them correctly to pass — that is a score of 85 percent. The test covers California traffic laws, road signs, safe driving practices, and vehicle equipment rules found in the California Driver Handbook.

You take the test at a DMV office on a computer or paper form, depending on the location. The test is administered in English and several other languages. You have no time limit to complete it, though most people finish in 30 to 45 minutes.

If you do not pass on your first attempt, you can retake the test the same day or return another day. There is no waiting period between attempts at the same DMV visit, but if you leave and come back, you must pay the permit fee again.

Key Takeaways

  • You must answer at least 39 out of 46 questions correctly, which equals an 85 percent passing score.
  • The test covers only material in the California Driver Handbook, so studying that book is the most direct way to prepare.
  • You can take the test in English, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Korean, or Tagalog at most DMV locations.
  • If you fail, you can retake the test when ready at the same DMV office without waiting, but you will need to pay the permit fee again if you return on a different day.

What Topics the 46 Questions Cover

The permit test draws all its content from the California Driver Handbook. Questions test your knowledge of right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking laws, traffic signals and signs, seat belt and child safety seat requirements, and rules for sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists.

You will also see questions about vehicle equipment — headlights, brake lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors — and questions about driving under the influence, distracted driving, and what to do at accident scenes. A smaller number of questions cover special situations like driving near school buses, on freeways, and in bad weather.

The DMV does not publish the exact breakdown of how many questions cover each topic, but the handbook itself is organized by subject, and the test questions follow that same structure. Studying the handbook chapter by chapter is the most reliable way to prepare.

How the Test Is Scored and What Happens If You Fail

The DMV scores your test when ready after you finish. A passing score is 39 correct answers out of 46. If you score 38 or lower, you fail and do not receive a permit.

If you fail, you have the option to retake the test right away at the same DMV office. You do not have to wait days or weeks. However, if you fail and leave the DMV, then return on a different day to retake it, you must pay the permit fee again. The current California permit fee is $35 for applicants under 18 and $38 for applicants 18 and older, though these amounts can change.

Many people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the handbook more carefully. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but each attempt at a different visit requires a new fee.

Languages Available for the Permit Test

California offers the permit test in seven languages: English, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and Tagalog. Not every DMV office offers all languages, so if you need a language other than English, contact your local DMV office in advance to confirm it is available.

You can also request a test with a certified interpreter present, though this may require scheduling in advance. Some DMV offices have interpreters on staff; others may ask you to bring your own certified interpreter or arrange one through the DMV.

How to Prepare for the 46-Question Test

The California Driver Handbook is the official source for all test content. You can read it online at the DMV website or pick up a free printed copy at any DMV office. The handbook is organized by topic and covers everything that appears on the test.

Study the handbook systematically, chapter by chapter. Pay special attention to sections on right-of-way, speed limits, traffic signs, and parking rules, as these topics appear frequently on the test. Many people find it helpful to take practice tests online — the DMV website offers a sample test that shows you the format and style of questions you will see.

Do not rely only on practice tests. The handbook itself is short and readable, and reading it all the way through gives you a complete picture of California traffic law. Many test-takers who fail have studied only practice tests and missed important details covered in the handbook.

When You Can Take the Permit Test

You can take the permit test at any DMV office during regular business hours. Most DMV offices are open Monday through Friday, with some locations open on Saturday mornings. Hours vary by location, so check the DMV website or call ahead to confirm the hours of your local office.

You do not need an appointment to take the written test at most DMV offices, but some locations now use an online appointment system. Check your local DMV's website to see whether you need to book a time slot or whether walk-ins are accepted.

If you fail the test and want to retake it the same day, ask the DMV staff whether that is possible at your location. Some offices allow when ready retakes; others may ask you to return another day.

What to Bring When You Take the Test

Bring a valid form of identification — a passport, state ID card, or birth certificate. You will also need to bring your permit process form, which is the DL 44 (for applicants under 18) or the DL 44 (for applicants 18 and older). You can fill this out at home or at the DMV office.

Bring proof of your California residency, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and address. You will also need your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Do not bring study materials, phones, or other devices into the testing area. The DMV will not allow you to use them during the test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone or study materials during the permit test?

No. The DMV does not allow phones, books, notes, or any other materials in the testing area. You must answer the questions from memory based on what you have studied. If you are caught using unauthorized materials, your test will be invalidated.

What happens if I get 39 correct answers — is that a pass?

Yes. Thirty-nine correct answers out of 46 is exactly 85 percent, which is the passing score. You will receive your permit when ready after the test is scored.

Do I have to pass the written test before I can take the driving test?

Yes. You must pass the written permit test first and hold a valid permit for at least six months before you can take the behind-the-wheel driving test for a full license.

Can I retake the test if I pass but want a higher score?

No. Once you pass with a score of 39 or higher, you receive your permit and cannot retake the written test. The DMV does not offer retakes for people who have already passed.

Is the permit test the same as the driver's license test?

No. The permit test is the written test you take to get a learner's permit. The driver's license test includes both a written portion and a behind-the-wheel driving test. The written portion for the license test is different from the permit test and covers additional topics.