California DMV requires you to be at least 15 ½ but under 18.

Driver Education (DE) teaches you about traffic laws, road safety, driver responsibilities, and avoiding accidents. It must consist of 30 hours of content learned in a school setting, home study, or online training program.

Driver Training (DT) gives you the opportunity to practice driving in real-world situations. Typically, this consists of a 6-hour Behind-The-Wheel program with a professional driving instructor.

Yes, if you are a minor, DMV requires a Certificate of Completion of Driver Education when you apply for your permit.

If you are a minor, you must hold your Permit for a minimum of 6 months prior to testing. During this time, typically, students enroll in a Behind-the-Wheel course. The students earn a Certificate of Completion of Driver Training (DT) at the end of the course and will submit that with their application for the Driver’s License exam.

If you don’t pass on your first attempt, that’s ok. Wait 8 days before retaking the test. You have up to 3 attempts to pass before you have to reapply.

Exciting! Here is what to prepare for:

• Arrive at least 10 min early

• Bring a parent/guardian, signed permit, and your Certificate of Completion

• Show proof of insurance and registration of the vehicle you will use for the test

The vehicle you are using will be inspected by the examiner. For example, no windshield cracks are allowed, both front and back license plates are required, and the vehicle must have working head and tail lights.

Discover the path from a Learner’s Permit to being a Licensed Driver from the CA DMV Teen Driver Roadmap

dmv.ca.gov/portal/teen-drivers/