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


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:
- Proof of Identity: An original or certified document such as a birth certificate or passport.
- Social Security Number: Provide your SSN (must match with SSA records).
- Proof of California Residency: Examples include utility bills, rental agreements, or school documents.
- Driver’s Education Certificate (if under 18).
- 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.