Requirements for obtaining a CA driver’s license

Under 18 years

  1. Have your parent’s permission
  2. Complete Driver’s Education 
  3. Pass written test at DMV and receive permit.  Must be at least 15 1/2 yrs. old and provide proof of completion of Driver Education.  Appointment not required for written test.
  4. Bring all necessary documents: proof of residency documents (2), birth verification, driver’s education certificate, glasses / contacts if required, DMV application conf. #,  etc.  DMV.ca.gov for more details.
  5. Schedule 6-hours of Driver’s Training with a Professional Driving School.
  6. Complete 50 hours of supervised driving with someone 25 yrs + who has a valid, CDL – permit not valid until teen completes the first driving lesson with Driving School.
  7. Pass the Road Test at DMV Must be at least 16 yrs. old, provide proof of completion of Driver’s Ed & Training  and have held permit for at least 6 months, appointment required for road test.

18 years & older

  1. Submit application to DMV
  2. Pay licensing fee
  3. Pass written test & vision test at DMV, ppointment required
  4. Schedule appointment at DMV.ca.gov and bring all necessary documents: birth verification, proof of residency documents (2), DMV application confirmation number, etc.  DMV.ca.gov for details
  5. Appointments for written tests are not required at DMV located at 2222 Senter Road, San Jose, CA 95112
  6. Pass drive test at DMV, appointment required