DMV Resources

If you are at least 15 1/2 years old but under 18, you will need to apply for an instruction permit before you can hit the road. Here’s how it works:

1. Complete a Driver License or ID (DL/ID) Card application.
2. Have your parent(s)/guardian(s) sign your application.
3. Provide DMV with documents proving your identity and your residency in California. (See acceptable identity documents and acceptable residency documents.)
4. Submit the appropriate form(s) from your driver education and/or training classes.
5. Visit a DMV office in person. You can make an appointment to go through the application process in person.
6. During your office visit, you will:
   • Pay the non-refundable application fee.
   • Give a fingerprint scan.
   • Take a vision exam.
   • Have your photograph taken.
   • Take the knowledge test (don’t worry; if you fail, you can take the test again in seven days).

 Here are some quick tips for learning the driving skills you will need.  

• Signaling to other drivers
  • Learn how to signal for left and right turns, how to slow down, and how to stop.
• Backing up your vehicle
  • Turn your head to survey the area, check your rearview and side mirrors, and avoid backing around corners or sharp curves. Practice how to turn the vehicle left and right while backing up.
• Making turns
  • Large, open parking lots are great for practicing turning. Learn how to steer throughout the turn, and practice right turns first.
• Right turns
  • Check traffic to the left, right, front, and rear. Slow down and signal at least 200 feet (more than half a city block) before turning. Practice doing right turns, as wide turns can be dangerous with oncoming traffic.
• Left turns
  • Left turns are much easier to make. Once again, check traffic, slow down and signal, and keep your eyes on the lane you are turning into.

• If possible, make a morning appointment at a DMV office.
• Be sure your vehicle is properly registered and bring proof of financial responsibility (insurance).
• Confirm that your instructor has signed your permit.
• Make sure your parent has signed your permit verifying the 50 hours of training.
• Bring a licensed driver, who is 25 years old or older and has a valid California driver license.
• Be sure you are thoroughly familiar with the vehicle you use for the driving test. You must know where all the controls are located and how to use them. Do not borrow a vehicle for the driving test unless it is necessary. It will be one more thing to make you nervous.
• Relax!
• If you fail the driving test, you must wait two weeks and pay a retest fee before taking the test again.

 You can find information and sample knowledge tests in our Driver Education & Training section.

• Sample DL knowledge tests
• Preparing for your driving test

Driver Handbook

Senior Guide for Safe Driving

Parent-Teen Training Guide