HOW DO I GET A DRIVER'S LICENSE?

Driver's License

Process for teens to obtain a California driver's license.

For a comprehensive overview of the process and requirements, refer to the DMV Teen Drivers page.

Once you have held your Driving Permit for a duration of 5 months and you feel prepared to undertake the “behind-the-wheel” driving test, you can schedule a DMV appointment by dialing 1 (510) 862-8857 or by utilizing the online DMV appointment system (choose the Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test option). It’s important to note that the California DMV computers only accept appointments up to 30 days in advance, and slots tend to fill up quickly. Therefore, it is advisable to initiate the process early. Calculate the day you will become eligible and secure an appointment on or after that date. It is not necessary to visit the same DMV office where you obtained your permit, so consider looking for available time slots at multiple nearby field offices, if possible.

Before being eligible to take your driving test you must:

To take your driving test, you will need to:

To schedule a Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test, it is essential to have an appointment since drive tests are not conducted without one.

To make an appointment, you can call 1 (510) 862-8857 between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can utilize the DMV’s online appointment.

You will need to provide proof of financial responsibility.

Upon successfully passing your driving test, you will receive an interim license that remains valid for 90 days until your new photo license is mailed to you. Before leaving the DMV office, ensure that your address is accurate and inform the DMV representative if you have moved or if any information is incorrect. If you have not received your license within 60 days, contact 1 (510) 862-8857 to inquire about its status. It is crucial to have your interim license available to provide information when requested.

In the event that you fail your driving test, you must wait for a duration of two weeks before being eligible to retake the test. You are allowed three attempts to pass.

If you have any further questions, it is advisable to consult the California DMV for any updates in laws and procedures. Driver Education serves as the initial step within the Graduated Driver Licensing Program, and we hope you become a safe and courteous driver.

The proper approach to obtaining your California driver's license:

Obtaining a California driver’s license involves several steps that need to be followed. One of the crucial steps in this process is successfully passing the California behind-the-wheel driving test. Here are some key points to keep in mind as you prepare for your California driving test.

First and foremost…
It is essential to adhere to the correct sequence of steps. Start by downloading a copy of the California Driver Handbook and thoroughly familiarize yourself with its contents before visiting the DMV. Additionally, you will need to complete the Driver License or Identification Card Application (DL-44), but remember not to sign it until instructed to do so at the DMV.

The Handbook contains all the necessary information to help you pass the written driver’s license test. However, to obtain a California driver’s license successfully, you must also pass the behind-the-wheel driving test administered by a DMV examiner.

The 6 hours of professional driver training and 50 hours of practice driving with an adult will instill important habits such as wearing your seat belt, using turn signals, and following speed limits and traffic signs. However, even with this driving experience, you may still have a few questions. Here are answers to some commonly asked questions from young drivers.

What documents are needed for the CA behind the wheel driving test?

Great news for teenage drivers (as well as drivers of any age who may lack experience parking on busy city streets): parallel parking is NOT mandatory during your driving test. The maximum requirement will be curbside parking, which is a simpler technique as it only involves pulling up alongside a curb, rather than performing the intricate maneuver of parking between two parked cars.

Do you have to parallel park in a California driving test?

The documents that you’ll need to bring to your driving test include:

Need Help? Feel Free to Inquire.

Our priority is to ensure that you have a seamless and hassle-free driver’s education experience. Whether you encounter any challenges during registration or simply have inquiries about California requirements, we are available seven days a week to provide prompt assistance. Contact us for any support you need.