PREPARE TO BECOME A DRIVER BY TAKING CALIFORNIA DRIVER’S EDUCATION

Prepare to become a confident and responsible driver by enrolling in California Driver’s Education. This essential course is the first step toward earning your driver’s permit and gaining the knowledge and skills needed for the road. Designed to educate new drivers on California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices, the program includes 30 hours of engaging instruction, either in a classroom or online. Driver’s Education not only prepares you for the DMV written test but also lays the foundation for safe and defensive driving habits. By completing this program, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate various driving scenarios, equipping you to handle real-world situations with confidence and responsibility.

 

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GUIDE TO YOUR DRIVING PERMIT

Step 1: Meet the Eligibility Requirements

  • Age Requirement: You must be at least 15 ½ years old.
  • If under 18, you must complete a Driver’s Education program approved by the California DMV.
  • Provide parental or guardian consent if under 18.

Step 2: Complete a Driver’s Education Course

  • Enroll in and complete a state-approved Driver’s Education program, which includes 30 hours of classroom instruction.
  • Obtain a Certificate of Completion of Driver’s Education (DL 387 or DL 400D) or proof of enrollment (DL 392) if your course isn’t finished yet.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

You’ll need the following when visiting the DMV:

  1. Proof of Identity: An original or certified document such as a birth certificate or passport.
  2. Social Security Number: Provide your SSN (must match with SSA records).
  3. Proof of California Residency: Examples include utility bills, rental agreements, or school documents.
  4. Driver’s Education Certificate (if under 18).
  5. DL 44 Form: A completed “Application for a Driver’s License or Identification Card” form. This form is available at the DMV and must be signed by a parent or guardian if under 18.

Step 4: Make a DMV Appointment

  • Visit the California DMV website to schedule an appointment for your permit test.
  • Walk-ins are allowed but may result in long wait times.

Step 5: Pass the Vision and Written Knowledge Tests

  • Take a vision test to ensure you meet the minimum vision requirements.
  • Pass the written knowledge test, which covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
  • You must score at least 80% (30 correct answers out of 36 questions).
  • Use the California Driver Handbook and practice tests to prepare.

Step 6: Pay the Application Fee

  • The fee for a learner’s permit is $41, which also covers your provisional driver’s license.
  • Fees may vary slightly, so confirm on the DMV website.

Step 7: Receive Your Instruction Permit

  • Once you pass the tests and pay the fees, you’ll receive a provisional instruction permit.
  • If under 18, the permit must be held for at least 6 months before applying for a provisional license.
  • You can only drive with a licensed adult (25 years or older) in the passenger seat.

Step 8: Begin Driver Training

  • Complete 6 hours of professional driver training with a licensed instructor if under 18.
  • Practice at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night.

Step 9: Prepare for the Driving Test

  • Once you meet all permit requirements and have completed supervised practice, you can schedule a driving test to get your provisional license.