Bring Your Signed process and Proof of Residency

California requires you to bring your completed DL 44 form (process for Driver License or Identification Card) to your permit test appointment. You must have already signed it — the DMV will not accept an unsigned form. Bring the original, not a photocopy.

You also need one document that proves where you live. The DMV accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail addressed to you at your current address. The document must show your name and current street address and be dated within the last 62 days. A PO box does not count as proof of residency.

Key Takeaways

  • Your signed DL 44 form and one proof of residency document dated within the last 62 days are required at every permit test appointment.
  • Bring your original birth certificate or passport — the DMV will not accept photocopies, certified copies, or digital images of these documents.
  • If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian and their ID; they must sign your DL 44 in front of the DMV examiner.
  • Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number in writing, since you will need to provide it during your appointment.
  • If you changed your name, bring the court order or marriage certificate that documents the change.

Your Birth Certificate or Passport (Original Only)

The DMV requires proof of your identity and date of birth. You must bring either your original birth certificate or your original passport. Photocopies, certified copies from the vital records office, and digital images on your phone do not meet this requirement — the examiner must see and verify the original document.

If your birth certificate is from outside the United States, it must be an official document issued by the vital records office of that country or state. Bring it in its original form. If it is in a language other than English, bring an official English translation along with the original.

Proof of Your Social Security Number or ITIN

You need to provide your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) at your appointment. Write it down before you go — you will give it to the DMV staff, not write it on a form yourself. Bring a document that shows your number, such as your Social Security card, a tax return, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form.

If you do not have a Social Security number and are not may be able to access for one, you can use an ITIN instead. Bring documentation of your ITIN, such as a letter from the IRS or a tax return showing the number.

A Parent or Guardian If You Are Under 18

If you are under 18, one parent or legal guardian must come with you to your permit test appointment. They must bring a valid ID — a driver license, passport, or state ID card. The parent or guardian will sign your DL 44 form in front of the DMV examiner; the DMV will not accept a pre-signed form or a signature from someone not present.

The parent or guardian does not take the test with you, but they must be present during the process process. If you cannot bring a parent or guardian, you will not be able to test that day.

Documents If You Changed Your Name

If your current name is different from the name on your birth certificate or passport, bring the document that shows the legal change. This is usually a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for name change. Bring the original or a certified copy issued by the court or vital records office.

If you are married and using your spouse's last name but have not yet filed a court order, a certified marriage certificate is sufficient. The DMV will use the name on your birth certificate or passport as your legal name unless you provide documentation of a legal change.

What You Do Not Need to Bring

You do not need to bring your current driver license or ID card if you have one — the DMV will look it up in their system. You do not need to bring proof of insurance, vehicle registration, or a vehicle title. You do not need to bring a completed study guide or practice test results.

Do not bring your phone or camera into the testing area. The DMV prohibits electronic devices during the written permit test. Leave them in your car or at home. You also do not need to bring cash — the DMV accepts card payments for the permit test fee.

What Happens If You Forget Something

If you arrive without a required document, the DMV will not let you test that day. You will need to reschedule your appointment and return with all required documents. There is no fee to reschedule, but you will lose your appointment slot and may have to wait weeks for the next available time.

Check the DMV website or call your local office the day before your appointment if you are unsure whether a document meets their requirements. Some documents — like proof of residency — have specific date ranges, and it is faster to confirm before you drive to the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital photo of my birth certificate instead of the original?

No. The DMV requires the original birth certificate or passport. They will not accept photocopies, certified copies, or images on your phone. You must bring the physical document to your appointment.

What if my proof of residency document is older than 62 days?

The DMV will not accept it. You need a document dated within the last 62 days. If your utility bill or lease is older, bring a recent bank statement, credit card statement, or government mail addressed to you at your current address instead.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I just tell the DMV my number?

You can tell them your number, but it is safer to bring a document that shows it — your Social Security card, a tax return, or a W-2. This prevents errors and speeds up the process. If you do not have your number memorized, write it down before you go.

Can my grandparent or older sibling sign for me if I am under 18?

No. Only a parent or legal guardian can sign your DL 44 form. If you do not have a parent available, a legal guardian appointed by the court can sign instead. The person who signs must bring a valid ID and be present at your appointment.

What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot get a replacement in time?

You can use your passport instead if you have one. If you have neither, contact your state's vital records office to order a replacement birth certificate. Most states can issue one within one to two weeks if you pay for expedited service. Plan ahead — do not wait until the day before your permit test appointment.