How Do I Get My Drivers License in California?
To get your drivers license in California as a teen, you need to complete 30 hours of drivers ed, pass the permit test, log 50 hours of supervised practice, and pass the behind-the-wheel driving test. You can start at 15½ and get your license at 16.
Here's the full process from start to finish.
What Are the California Teen Drivers License Requirements?
California has specific requirements for teen drivers before you can earn your provisional license:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum age to start drivers ed | 15½ years old |
| Drivers ed course | 30 hours (online or classroom, DMV-approved) |
| Behind-the-wheel training | 6 hours with a licensed instructor |
| Permit test | 46 questions, must score 38+ correct |
| Supervised practice | 50 hours (10 at night) with licensed adult 25+ |
| Minimum permit holding period | 6 months |
| Minimum age for license | 16 years old |
Once you meet all requirements, you're eligible to take the driving test and get your provisional license.
Step 1: Complete Drivers Ed
California requires 30 hours of drivers ed for anyone under 18. You can take this online or in a classroom — both count the same as long as the course is DMV-approvedCalifornia Drivers EdCalifornia Drivers Ed.
Online courses let you work at your own pace from your phone or computer. Classroom courses meet at set times over several weeks.
After you finish, you'll receive a certificate of completion. You'll need this to apply for your permit at the DMV.
Step 2: Get Your Learners Permit
With your drivers ed certificate, you can visit the DMV to take the written permit testCalifornia Drivers EdCalifornia Drivers Ed.
What to bringBlog What You Need Bring Dmv Get Your California Drivers License Aceable.com:
Completed permit application (signed by parent/guardian)
Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport)
Your Social Security number
Drivers ed certificate of completion
Application fee payment (currently around $45)
At the DMV you'll:
Take a vision screening
Take the written permit test (46 questions, need 38 correct)
Provide a thumbprint
Get your photo taken
Once you pass, you'll receive your learners permit. You can now start supervised driving practice — but your permit isn't fully valid until a driving instructor signs it during your behind-the-wheel training.
Step 3: Complete Behind-the-Wheel Training
California requires 6 hours of professional behind-the-wheel training with a licensed instructor. This is separate from your 50 hours of practice with a parent.
Most driving schools split this into three 2-hour sessions. After your first 2 hours of professional training, you can start logging practice hours with a parent or licensed adult over 25.
Step 4: Log 50 Hours of Practice
You need 50 hours of supervised driving practice before you can take the driving test. At least 10 hours must be at night.
Your supervising driver must be a licensed adult at least 25 years old — typically a parent or guardian. Keep a driving log signed by your parent as you go. You'll need to show this at the DMV when you apply for your license.
Pro tip: Spread your hours over several months. Teens who practice consistently build better habits than those who cram all 50 hours into a few weeks. Aim for 2-3 sessions per week.
Step 5: Take the Driving Test
Once you've held your permit for 6 months, completed all practice hours, and turned 16, you can schedule your driving test.
What to bring:
Your learners permit
Signed driving log showing 50 hours
Proof of insurance for the vehicle
A vehicle that passes safety inspection (working lights, signals, horn, mirrors)
The driving test takes about 15-20 minutes on public roads near the DMV. If you pass, you'll receive a temporary license that day. Your official provisional license arrives in the mail within 90 days.
If you don't pass, you can retake the test after two weeks. You get three attempts before needing to restart the application process.
FAQ
How long does it take to get a drivers license in California?
Most teens complete the process in 6-12 months. The minimum timeline is about 6 months since you must hold your permit that long before taking the driving test.
Can I take drivers ed online in California?
Yes. The California DMV approves online drivers ed courses, including Aceable. Online and classroom courses both satisfy the 30-hour requirement.
What if I'm over 18?
Drivers ed isn't required if you're 18 or older, but you still need to pass the permit test and driving test. Many adults take drivers ed anyway to prepare for the written exam.
What's the difference between a permit and a provisional license?
A learners permit lets you practice driving with a supervising adult. A provisional license lets you drive alone but has restrictions — no passengers under 20 and no driving between 11pm-5am — for the first 12 months.
Ready to start the process?
Aceable's California drivers ed is DMV-approved and works on your phone. Finish your 30 hours on your schedule and get your certificate fast.