Useful DMV information

What to bring to DMV for the permit test

  1. DMV application: Complete this online and save the confirmation number. Minors will need a parent or guardian’s signature.
  2. Driver’s Education certificate: Required for individuals under 17½ years old.
  3. Required fee: Payable by cash, personal check, money order (to DMV), or credit card.
  4. Verification of birth: Provide a birth certificate (no photocopies), valid passport, green card, resident alien card, or military ID.
  5. Proof of residency: Two documents are needed.
  6. Glasses or contacts: Bring these if they are required for the vision test.
  7. For more info:  www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/dl/checklists/permit_under18

What to bring to DMV for the road test

  1. Permit: Must be signed by both the driving instructor and a parent or guardian for minors.
  2. Vehicle registration and insurance: Must be current.
  3. Glasses or contacts: Bring if needed for the vision test.
  4. Driver’s education certificate: Required for minors.
  5. Driver’s training certificate of completion: Required for minors.

California Driver Handbook

Access DMV Driver Handbook

We strongly recommend reviewing the handbook before taking the knowledge test, as all test questions are covered in this book.  Consider taking our NEW DMV practice test question course for additional support Fee: $21.93  Sign up

Scheduling DMV appointments

Appointments are not needed for the written test, but you must schedule an appointment for the road test. Book your appointments online at www.dmv.ca.gov  or by telephone services 1-800-777-0133.

DMV Hours of operation

DMV hours of operation vary by location. View DMV office hours on their website at www.dmv.ca.gov 

Take the written / knowledge test at home

Who is eligible:

  • Californian teens and adults
  • Individuals moving to California from out of state who need to take a driver’s license knowledge test

Online Knowledge Exam

  • The online test is offered in 35 languages to customers
  • Must have an internet-enabled computer or laptop with a webcam.
  • Tests are available between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, excluding state holidays.
  • The test cannot be taken on a tablet or mobile device.

Additional Details

  • In-person test at the local DMV office is still an option
  • In-person tests are administered on touchscreen modules at DMV offices, no more paper tests
  • As a fraud-prevention measure, online test participants are required to verify their identity and agree to be monitored throughout the exam.
  • The test can be attempted online twice.
  • Customers who fail both attempts will be prompted to go to a DMV office to take the test a third time.

How to choose a reputable driving school

Selecting a professional driving school that offers high-quality services is crucial for laying the groundwork for driving success. When evaluating different schools, consider asking the following important questions: How long has the driving school been in operation? What is the experience level of the instructors? Is the driving school licensed and bonded?

Word of mouth is another valuable way to gather information about driving schools. Speak with friends, relatives, or other parents before making a commitment. While cost is an important consideration, it should not be the sole factor in choosing a driving school. Driving is considered one of the most essential skills a person can have, and investing in a quality driving school is an investment in your education. Additionally, consider schools that are members of the Driving School Association of California or the Driving School Association of the Americas.

Practicing With a Learner’s Permit

Provisional drivers – those under 18 must complete their first driving lesson with a professional driving school before they are eligible to drive under supervision from someone who is 25 years old or older and holds a valid California Driver’s License.

Teens 17 1/2 or older – may drive under supervision from someone who is  25 or older and holds a valid California Driver’s License, without completing a driving lesson with a professional driving school.

Adults 18 years and older may drive under supervision from someone who is also 18 or older and holds a valid California Driver’s License.

Graduated licensing program for provisional drivers– Under 18 years old

After obtaining a provisional license, for the first year:

  • Driving is prohibited between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.*
  • Transporting passengers under 20 years old is not allowed.*

*Exceptions apply if there is a supervisor who is 25 years or older with a valid California driver’s license, or as specified in the CA DMV Driver’s Handbook.

Insurance requirements for driving schools

Driving Schools are required to be fully insured and bonded. Certificate of insurance OL 207, CVC 11103 and surety bond in the amount of $10,000, CVC 111102(a)(3) and 11102.1.

DMV written / knowledge test

For drivers under 18, the written test consists of 46 questions, and passing requires 8 or fewer errors. The adult written test has 36 questions, with a passing requirement of 3 or fewer errors. Written test renewals have 18 questions, with 3 or fewer errors needed to pass. Most DMV locations do not require an appointment for the permit test.

You can take the permit test using various methods: written, audio, oral, or online from home. The test is available in most languages. Upon passing, you will receive your permit immediately. The permit is valid for one year from the date of your initial application.

DMV road test

An appointment is necessary for the road test. You can schedule it online or by phone. The applicant must provide their own vehicle, which should have current registration and proof of insurance. The vehicle must be in good working condition. The pre-drive check will include verifying arm signals and identifying the vehicle’s equipment. The road test typically lasts 10-15 minutes. Consider signing up for a 2-hour DMV road test preparation class.

Traffic school- points on record

Bay Area Driving School is also an approved traffic school for the State of California, license # E8579.  Traffic school modalities include:  online traffic school, in-person traffic school and home study booklet.

Most drivers are eligible to attend traffic school once every 18 months. Citations are categorized as either infractions or misdemeanors:

  • Infractions: These result in 1 point on the driving record (e.g., running a red light, incomplete stop, speeding) and remain on the record for 3 years. Drivers will need to pay the fine and may face increased insurance rates. Minors may face additional consequences.
  • Misdemeanors: These are more serious and result in 2 points on the driving record (e.g., DUI, hit-and-run, speeding over 100 mph). Misdemeanor convictions stay on the record for 7 years, and DUI convictions can remain for up to 10 years. Misdemeanors also carry substantial fines, mandatory court appearances, and potentially jail time. Misdemeanor convictions are not eligible for traffic school.

We do not offer the DUI Program.