What do you have to in California get your permit?

Pass a vision exam

Be at least 15 years old

Complete the DMV learner's permit application

Provide documentary proof of identity, residency, and date of birth

- California birth certificate

- Valid passport

- Permanent resident card

- Two documents containing your picture, name and address (e.g. student ID, credit card, school report card, etc.)

Pay the required fees

- Learner's Permit Application fee: $35

- Application Processing fee: $27

Pass the written knowledge test

- 36-question test on road rules, traffic laws and safe driving practices

- You must correctly answer at least 30 of the 36 questions to pass

Complete a driver education course

- Enrolling in and completing an approved driver's education course is required for drivers under 18.

Practice driving with a licensed adult

- While holding your learner's permit, you must practice driving with an adult licensed for at least 5 years.

Display the DL placard on the vehicle while driving

Pass the driving skills test

- Once you have completed the driver education course and practiced driving for at least 50 hours (10 hours of nighttime driving), you can schedule your driving skills test at the DMV.

Receive your learner's permit

- If you pass the driving skills test, the DMV will issue you your learner's permit.

Note: Once you receive your learner's permit, you are required to maintain a clean driving record for at least 6 months before you can apply for a driver's license. During this time, you can only drive with a licensed adult in the passenger seat.