Instruction and Learner's Permits - California DMV

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Instruction Permits Overview

• Purpose: First step towards obtaining a California Driver's License (DL).
• Audience: Those learning to drive and working towards a DL.

Applying for a California Instruction Permit

For Applicants Under 18

• Age Requirement: At least 15 but under 18.
• Education Requirement: Certificate of Completion/Enrollment of Driver Education.
• Application Process:
  • Complete the DL/ID Card Application.
  • Parent(s)/guardian(s) signature required.
  • Visit a DMV office with:
    • Proof of identity and residency.
    • Application fee.
    • Pass a vision exam and take a photo.
    • Pass a knowledge test based on the California Drivers Handbook (80% passing score). Tests not available after 4:30 p.m.

For Applicants Over 18

• Age Requirement: At least 18.
• Application Process:
  • Complete the DL/ID Card Application.
  • Visit a DMV office with:
    • Proof of identity and residency.
    • Application fee.
    • Pass a vision exam and take a photo.
    • Pass a knowledge test based on the California Drivers Handbook (80% passing score).

Motorcycle Instruction Permit

• Age Requirement: At least 15.
• Education Requirement:
  • Certificate of Completion of Driver Education if under 18.
  • Complete a CMSP motorcyclist training course if 15-21.
• Application Process:
  • Complete the DL/ID Card Application.
  • Parent(s)/guardian(s) signature if under 18.
  • Visit a DMV office with:
    • Proof of identity and residency.
    • Application fee.
    • Pass a vision exam and take a photo.
    • Pass a knowledge test based on the California Motorcycle Handbook (80% passing score).

FAQs

• REAL ID Application: Requires two residency documents.
• Financial Responsibility: Proof of insurance required; minimum limits for coverage.
• DE/DT Requirement for 17 ½ to 18: Instruction permit can be acquired without DE/DT, but driving test not available until 18.
• Out-of-State DE/DT: Requires a letter from out-of-state school verifying equivalence to California standards.
• Expired Permit: Application and fee valid for 12 months; cumulative credit given for instruction time.
• Knowledge Test Availability: In-office tests must start before 4:30 p.m.
• Foreign DL Holders: Accompanying driver required for the drive test.

Additional Information

• REAL ID Compliance: Needed from May 7, 2025, for domestic flights and federal facilities access.
• Name Updates on DL/ID: Instructions available for updating name changes.

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• Google Translate is a third-party service not controlled by DMV.
• English website version is the official source.

Note: Always refer to the official DMV website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.