What you need to do to get a California driver's license
To get a California driver's license, you must pass a written knowledge test and a driving test, then submit documents proving your identity, residency, and Social Security number to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You can take the written test at any DMV office without an appointment, but you'll need to schedule a driving test appointment in advance. The entire process typically takes several weeks from your first visit to receiving your license in the mail.
California issues licenses to people 16 and older. If you're under 18, you'll follow a different path called the Graduated Driver's License (GDL) program, which includes a learner's permit stage before you can take the driving test. Adults 18 and older can move directly to the knowledge and driving tests.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring an original or certified birth certificate, passport, or consulate document to prove identity, plus two documents showing your current California address.
- The written knowledge test covers California traffic laws and safe driving practices; you can take it as many times as needed, but you must pass before scheduling a driving test.
- You'll need to schedule your driving test appointment through the DMV website or by phone, and tests are booked weeks in advance in most counties.
- Once you pass both tests, the DMV mails your physical license to your address within two to three weeks.
- If you're under 18, you must first obtain a learner's permit and hold it for at least six months before taking the driving test.
Documents you must bring to the DMV
Bring one document that proves your identity and date of birth. Acceptable documents include an original or certified birth certificate, a valid passport, a consulate document, or a permanent resident card. A school ID or library card will not work for this step.
You also need two documents that show your current California address. These can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a recent bank or credit card statement with your name and address printed on it. A PO box does not count as a residential address. If you've recently moved and don't have two documents yet, bring what you have and ask the DMV what other documents they'll accept.
Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card or tax return. If you don't have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you're not may be able to access.
Bring any valid driver's license or ID you currently hold, even if it's from another state or country. If you're replacing a suspended or revoked license, bring the DMV notice explaining the suspension or revocation.
Taking the written knowledge test
The written test covers California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take it in English or one of several other languages. The test has 36 questions, and you must answer at least 30 correctly to pass. You're allowed to take the test as many times as you need, but you cannot schedule a driving test until you've passed the written test.
Walk into any DMV office during business hours with your documents and ask to take the written test. You don't need an appointment. The test takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and you'll get your results when ready. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. There's no waiting period between attempts.
The DMV provides a free study guide called the California Driver Handbook, available online at dmv.ca.gov or in print at any DMV office. Many people study this handbook for a few days before taking the test. You can also take practice tests on the DMV website to see which topics you need to review.
Scheduling and taking the driving test
Once you've passed the written test, you must schedule a driving test appointment. You can schedule online at dmv.ca.gov, by phone at 1-800-777-0133, or in person at a DMV office. Appointments fill up quickly, especially in urban areas, so you may not get a date for several weeks.
On the day of your test, bring your documents again, your written test receipt, and proof of vehicle insurance. The vehicle you use for the test must be registered in California and pass a safety inspection (working brakes, lights, wipers, and horn). You'll drive with a DMV examiner for about 20 minutes on local streets. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers like parking, turning, and stopping.
If you don't pass the driving test, you can schedule another appointment and retake it. There's no limit to how many times you can test, but you'll need to schedule each appointment separately, which means waiting for the next available slot.
What happens after you pass both tests
Once you pass the driving test, the DMV will take your photo and process your process. You'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot that's valid for 60 days. Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address you provided, usually within two to three weeks.
If you need to drive before your permanent license arrives, the temporary license is valid for all driving purposes. Check your mail regularly, as the DMV does not send a notice when your license is on the way. If you don't receive it within four weeks, contact the DMV to confirm your address is correct.
Getting a learner's permit if you're under 18
If you're under 18, you must first obtain a learner's permit and hold it for at least six months before you can take the driving test. To get a learner's permit, bring your documents to the DMV, pass the written knowledge test, and have your photo taken. There's no driving test required for the permit.
With a learner's permit, you can drive only when a licensed driver 25 or older is sitting next to you in the front seat. You cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free. These restrictions stay in place for the first 12 months after you get your full license, even after you turn 18.
After you've held your learner's permit for at least six months and completed a driver education course (required by California law), you can schedule your driving test. The process for the driving test is the same as for adults.
Renewing or replacing your license
If you already have a California license and need to renew it, you can do so online at dmv.ca.gov if your license is not suspended or revoked and you don't need to update your photo. Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal and takes about two weeks.
If you've lost your license or it's damaged, you can request a replacement at any DMV office or online. Bring your documents and proof of your current address. A replacement license costs less than a new license and arrives in the mail within two to three weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online?
No, you must take the written test in person at a DMV office. However, you can study for it online using the California Driver Handbook and practice tests on the DMV website before you go.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test as many times as you need. Schedule your next appointment through the DMV website or by phone. There's no waiting period, but appointments may not be available for several weeks depending on your location.
Do I need a Social Security number to get a California license?
California requires a Social Security number or proof that you're not may be able to access. If you don't have one, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration. You can still get a license without a number, but you'll need this documentation.
How long does it take to get my license after I pass the tests?
You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready after passing the driving test. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license is valid for all driving purposes during this time.
What vehicle can I use for the driving test?
The vehicle must be registered in California, have working brakes, lights, wipers, and horn, and have current insurance. You cannot use a commercial vehicle or a vehicle with more than seven seats. The DMV examiner will do a quick safety check before the test begins.