7/5/2023
In order to drive a car in the state of California you must have a valid driver's license. If you do not have one, you must pass a driving test in order to obtain it.
In this article we will tell you how to take the California driving test, trying to include the relevant details that will help you to do this procedure faster.
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How to get the driver's license in California?
Getting through the California DMV or any other state is not usually a walk in the park. Managing appointments, forms and tests requires a combination of patience with good information.
It is not uncommon for someone who does not know the process well to take months instead of weeks to get a license. For this reason, we want you to go in with the proper preparation and know for sure how to proceed.
The California driver's license consists of 6 basic steps:
- Visit the nearest DMV location.
- Complete form DL44 (Application for Identification Card or License).
- Show a document proving your identity.
- Pay the $33 driver's license fee.
- Pass the written permit test.
- Pass the in-vehicle driving test.
Age limits for taking the CA driver's license test
When you are 16 years old, you can only obtain a provisional license after completing the driver education course (30 hours of instruction). In case you are 6 months or less shy of 18, you get the transitional permit without the aforementioned instruction.
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Those who are 18 years old can follow the usual procedure. Likewise, those who have already turned 16, have 50 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction and have held a learner's permit for at least 6 months, may apply for a provisional license.
Identity Verification
After making your appointment, go to the designated DMV office a little before the scheduled time. Since there is no written exam before 4:30 pm, concentrate on filling out form DL44. This form is not online, so you will need:
- Social Security number or military ID.
- A document proving your immigration status and date of birth (birth certificate or passport).
- Two documents proving your California residency (signed rental agreement, utility bill or mortgage payment).
- A document showing your actual full name (certificate of cohabitation/marriage, name change, or marriage/separation certificate).
California Driver's License Exams and Tests
After the DMV verifies your identity and you fill out the appropriate form, you will have your photo and fingerprint (thumbprint) taken. You must then pass the vision test and pay the license fee ($33). This is followed by the written exam and the driving test.
When it is your turn to take the driving test, bring the following:
- The car insurance associated with the vehicle you will be driving.
- A document proving your legal residency and date of birth.
If you pass, you will receive by regular mail a provisional license valid for 90 days. With this document, you can drive unsupervised and under certain conditions:
- You cannot drive from 11 pm to 5 am.
- You cannot drive with passengers under 20 unless someone under 25 is licensed.
There are exceptions to these restrictions:
- Going to work.
- Going to school.
- For medical or family emergency.
Once you have the official license, you will be able to drive without limitations and with total freedom throughout the United States and also abroad. Of course, you must always comply with all traffic regulations to avoid being fined or having an accident.
Tips for taking the driving test in California
We want you to take the driving test in California without too many delays. Therefore, we suggest you:
- Get your permit appointment. In this state, the average waiting time for a walk-in license is 4 to 8 hours. That is why it is important to make an appointment to expedite the process.
- Schedule your driving test as soon as possible. Once you pass the written test, you will be given a license number. If you don't want to wait months to take this test, it's best to get your appointment as soon as possible. You will still have time to practice with the help of family and friends.
- Practice and study. Data indicates that just over half (55%) of first-time test takers fail the written test. When you don't pass, this means a delay of weeks to retake it. The California Driver's Handbook is available for study. Also, don't forget to practice safe driving when you have the opportunity.
- Know your driving test well. The more you practice behind the wheel, the better prepared you will be for the driving test. We understand the anxiety of wanting to get your license now, but it is much more important to do things right. Even if you have some driving experience, consult the internet and people you trust to better understand the details that the instructor will ask you.
Español: Examen de manejo de California en español para licencia