Are you ready to take the exciting step of getting your California driver's license? Navigating the process of obtaining your driver's license can sometimes seem overwhelming, but fear not! This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step to ensure a smooth and successful journey towards becoming a licensed driver in California.
The First Step: Getting your CA Driving Permit!
Before beginning the process, it's essential to familiarize yourself with the requirements for obtaining your CA driver's license. This typically includes proof of identity, proof of residency, and passing a written knowledge test. Don't worry; we've got you covered with detailed insights into each requirement.
If you are under 18:
To apply for a California Instruction Permit, you must:
Be at least 15 ½ but under 18.
Have a Certificate of Completion/Enrollment of Driver Education.
Complete the California Driver’s License or ID Card Application.
Have a parent(s)/guardian(s) sign the application.
Visit a DMV office (schedule an appointment), where you will:
Bring your California Identification Card or proof of identity and residency. (Federal Noncompliant/REAL ID/AB60)
Pay the application fee.
Pass a vision exam.
Take a photo.
Take the knowledge test(s). There are multiple choice questions based on the California Driver’s Handbook, and a passing score is 80%.
If you are over 18:
To apply for a California Instruction Permit, you must:
Be at least 18.
Complete the California Driver’s License or ID Card Application.
Visit a DMV office (schedule an appointment), where you will:
Bring your California Identification Card or proof of identity and residency. (Federal Noncompliant/REAL ID/AB60)
Pay the application fee.
Pass a vision exam.
Take a photo.
Take the knowledge test(s). There are multiple choice questions based on the California Driver’s Handbook, and a passing score is 80%.
Here are some helpful resources to help you be well prepared for obtaining your CA drivers permit!
CA DMV Driver Handbook (read through for written test!) https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/
CA DMV Practice test questions
CA Real ID Checklist
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/real-id/real-id-checklist/
Some options for Drivers-Ed (for under 18 applicants)
Phew! You finally have your CA driving permit (yay!!) now what?
Step 2: Lets hit the road!
This step is where we can help! With a CA driving permit in hand you can now start practicing driving legally (with certain restrictions) on the road!
To look into the prices and schedule a driving lesson head over to our pricings page to pick out a package that best suits your needs! https://www.goodlanddriving.com/pricing
Please note, there are restrictions to driving with a CA permit, here are the restrictions listed by the DMV:
Your instruction permit is not valid until you begin driver training; your instructor will sign the permit to validate it. (For teenage drivers under the age of 18, the permit is only validated after completion of first Behind-the-wheel driving lesson with an accredited driving school) Once the permit has been validated, you may use your instruction permit to practice with a licensed:
Parent or guardian.
California driver 25 years old or older.
Or certified driving instructor.
The person must have a valid DL in their possession and should be positioned to allow them to take control of the vehicle, if needed. An instruction permit does not let you drive alone at any time—not even to a DMV office to take the driving test.
Step 3: Schedule the Driving Test
Once you feel confident in your driving abilities, schedule an appointment for the driving test at the DMV. The driving test can be scheduled here: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/appointments/select-appointment-type
Go to the "Schedule My Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test" section
Select Automobile and follow the steps to schedule your drive test
On the day of your behind-the-wheel test, you must bring:
Your instruction permit
Another California-licensed driver who is at least 18 years old (25 for minors)
A vehicle that is safe to drive for your test.
Valid proof of insurance and vehicle registration.
For teenage drivers (under 18 yrs old): Proof of Behind The Wheel Training Completion form (issued at the end of 6 hours of drivers training)
If you haven't completed your 6 hours of behind the wheel training yet, we can help! head over to our pricings page to pick out a package that best suits your needs! https://www.goodlanddriving.com/pricing
If needed, we also offer drive test car rentals! if you need to rent a car for the drive test, feel free to call us at (805)8882599
Once you pass the drive test you will be a proud holder of a California driver's license and officially licensed to drive. (Yay!!)
Step 4: Celebrate!!
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