California DMV Handbook Overview

Introduction

• Purpose: To provide essential information for safe driving and understanding traffic laws in California.
• Audience: New drivers, experienced drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.

Section 1: The California Driver's License

General Information

• Function: Allows driving on public roads.
• Requirement: Must pass knowledge and behind-the-wheel tests.
• Class C: Most common license; other classes for commercial/motorcycle vehicles.
• More Information: Visit DMV

DL Card Designations

• Real ID: Required by May 2025 for domestic flights and federal facilities. More Info
• Undocumented Residents: Licenses available. More Info
• Organ & Tissue Donor: More Info
• Veterans: Benefits available. More Info
• ID Cards: For identification only, not for driving. More Info

Safety Reminder

• Seat Belts: Always buckle up.

Section 2: Getting an Instruction Permit and Driver's License

Required Documents

• Proof of Identity
• Proof of California Residency
• Legal Full Name Document
• Social Security Number
• Visit DMV for more on acceptable documents

Instruction Permit Application

• Steps: Complete application, provide documents, pay fee, pass tests.
• Under 18 Requirements: Minimum 15.5 years old, complete driver education, parental approval, approved driving instructor.
• Driving Schools: Must be DMV-licensed.

Driver's License Application

• Practice Requirements: Practice with a licensed driver (18+ for adults, 25+ for minors).
• Test Requirements: Pass the behind-the-wheel drive test.
• Minors: 50 hours of practice driving, 10 at night, additional restrictions.

Provisional License Restrictions

• Driving Hours: No driving between 11 PM and 5 AM in the first 12 months.
• Passenger Restrictions: No passengers under 20 years without a 25+ licensed driver.
• Exception Notes: Medical, school, work, family needs (signed notes required).
• Parental Control: Parents can cancel the teen's license.

Section 3: The Testing Process

Vision Test

• Requirement: Must pass to ensure safe driving.
• Corrective Lenses: Restriction if used.

Knowledge Test

• Format: Multiple choice questions.
• Retakes: Allowed up to three attempts; minors must wait 7 days between attempts.
• No Aids: No use of aids (e.g., handbook, phone).

Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test

• Requirements: Safe vehicle, licensed adult present (18+ for adults, 25+ for minors), valid insurance and registration.
• Pre-Drive Check: Demonstrate vehicle controls (windows, mirrors, lights, brakes, etc.).
• Technology Use: Limited use of backup cameras and monitors, no ADAS (e.g., automated parking).
• Examiner: Only examiner can accompany; no recording devices.

Section 4: Changing, Replacing, and Renewing Your Driver's License

Updates to License

• Name/Description Changes: Visit DMV.
• Address Change: Notify DMV within 10 days, no new license automatically issued.

Replacing or Renewing Licenses

• Lost/Stolen/Damaged: Visit DMV or use online services.
• Expiration: Illegal to drive with an expired license.
• Out-of-State Extensions: One-year extension available (limited term licenses not eligible).

DMV Kiosks

• Services Offered: Registration renewal, proof of insurance, driver record, etc. Find Kiosk