California · Permit Requirements
California permit-test facts: Questions: Not stated on the cited official page; To pass: 80% (California DMV does not state a question total on the cited permit page); Minimum age: 15½; driver-education documentation or qualifying integrated program is required for some applicants under 18; Fee: $46 Class C original application fee; Re-takes: 3 attempts for each required knowledge test; reapply after failing the same test 3 times; Official handbook: California Driver’s Handbook.
Before you visit the DMV, make sure you meet every California learner's permit requirement — missing a single document sends you home without a permit. This page lists everything you need: age, documents, tests, and fees, sourced from the California Driver’s Handbook.
Already have your documents? Practice the free knowledge test below so you walk in ready to pass on the first try.
California permit-test facts: Questions: Not stated on the cited official page; To pass: 80% (California DMV does not state a question total on the cited permit page); Minimum age: 15½; driver-education documentation or qualifying integrated program is required for some applicants under 18; Fee: $46 Class C original application fee; Re-takes: 3 attempts for each required knowledge test; reapply after failing the same test 3 times; Official handbook: California Driver’s Handbook.
The cited California instruction-permit page says the knowledge test is multiple choice and requires 80%, but it does not state one statewide question total. Age requirements are conditional for applicants under 18. The $46 value is the Class C original application fee shown on the cited fee schedule; confirm fees at application time.
| Fact | Answer | Evidence status |
|---|---|---|
| Questions | Not stated on the cited official page | Not stated on the cited official page |
| To pass | 80% (California DMV does not state a question total on the cited permit page) | Verified against cited official source |
| Minimum age | 15½; driver-education documentation or qualifying integrated program is required for some applicants under 18 | Verified against cited official source |
| Fee | $46 Class C original application fee | Verified against cited official source |
| Re-takes | 3 attempts for each required knowledge test; reapply after failing the same test 3 times | Verified against cited official source |
| Official handbook | California Driver’s Handbook | Verified against cited official source |
Official source
Official-source access attempted: 2026-09-14 (retrieved)
Three sample questions from our practice bank. Read the explanation after each.
Question 1 · Traffic signals
What should you do when you see a yellow traffic light?
Correct answer: Slow down and prepare to stop
Yellow means slow down and prepare to stop — don’t speed up to beat the light.
Question 2 · Right of way
When must you yield the right of way to a pedestrian?
Correct answer: At all crosswalks, marked or unmarked
Always yield to pedestrians in crosswalks — marked or not.
Question 3 · Safe driving distance
What is the minimum following distance you should keep behind the vehicle ahead?
Correct answer: 3 seconds
Keep at least 3 seconds of space between you and the car ahead.
Your first full mock exam is free.
Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport), your Social Security number (Social Security card), and proof of California residency (two documents such as utility bills or bank statements). Bring originals — photocopies are typically not accepted.
15½; driver-education documentation or qualifying integrated program is required for some applicants under 18. Different requirements apply depending on your age — younger applicants must complete driver education before applying.
$46 Class C original application fee. Check the DMV website for the current fee schedule as these can change.
It depends on your age. Adults (18+) can generally apply directly. Applicants under 18 in California must typically complete an approved driver education program first.
Yes — California offers the knowledge test in Spanish at most DMV offices. You can also request a Spanish version of the driver's handbook at the counter.
Start with a free practice exam. No card, no commitment.
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