California driver license guide

Minimum age for an instruction permit

15 and a half (provisional permit for under-18s); adults 18+ get a regular instruction permit.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Application fee, noncommercial Class C (original license/permit)

$46 for a noncommercial Class C application. The application and fee stay valid for 12 months.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Knowledge test passing score

80% on a multiple-choice test based on the California Driver's Handbook (same statement for under-18 and adult permit applicants).Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Knowledge test attempts allowed

Three attempts per application; after a third failure you must reapply.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Wait after failing the knowledge test

Minors must wait 7 days (not counting the day of the failure). No waiting period for adults is stated.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Is an appointment needed?

DMV directs permit applicants to schedule an appointment for the office visit; behind-the-wheel tests are by appointment only. Knowledge tests are not given at offices after 4:30 p.m.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Latest time for testing at an office

Tests are not available at DMV offices after 4:30 p.m.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Documents for a first permit/license

Proof of identity, two proofs of California residency, a legal-name document if your name differs, and your Social Security number (exceptions may apply). Under 18: also a driver education certificate and parent/guardian signature.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

How long a license is valid

An original license expires on your 5th birthday after the application date (shorter in some cases, e.g. limited-term identity documents).Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Is online renewal available?

Yes. You can renew in person, by mail, or online; online is open from 90 days before to 12 months after expiration if no address/description change, not a first REAL ID, and not commercial.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Renewal fee, noncommercial Class C

$46.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Replacement fee (lost or stolen), noncommercial Class C

$37.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

REAL ID documents in brief

One proof of identity showing date of birth and full name, two different printed proofs of California residency, and a name-change document for each legal name change. Apply online, then finish at a DMV office with the originals.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Under-18 license requirements

Age 16-18, permit held at least six months, driver education, six hours of professional training, and 50 practice hours (10 at night).Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

Wait after a failed driving test (minors)

14 days, not counting the day of the failure.Source: dmv.ca.gov · checked Nov 14, 2026

These links open official government websites. USA DMV is an independent study site and is not affiliated with any of them.