Teens (under 18)
 

The following is a list of steps required by the State of California DMV to acquire a Provisional Driving Permit and Provisional Driving License.

Provisional Driving permit Steps

• Minimum 15 1/2 years of age.
• Complete driver education - class room training (if under 17 1/2 years old).
• Enroll for driving lessons with a driving school (receive Cert. OL 239) before taking written test.
• Report to DMV with the following:
  • Certificate of Completion of Driver Education (OL 237).
  • Certificate of Enrollment in Driver Training (OL 239).
  • Completed Driving License application form DL44 (parents must sign).
  • Acceptable date of birth or legal presence document.
  • Social Security number or letter from Social Security organization allowing to apply for a drivers license.
  • Pay $24 application fee.
• Pass DMV written (within 3 attempts or apply again). If fail written test, then must wait 1 week before attempting again.
• Pass a vision test.
• Take a picture for license card.
• Be thumb printed.

Provisional Permit Restrictions

Minors may use the provisional permit to practice with a person at least 25 years old, who has a valid California driver license.

Provisional Driver's License Steps

• Have driving permit for minimum 6 months.
• Complete 6 hours driving lessons with licensed driving school.
• Complete 50 hours of driving practice with 25 year old licensed driver (including 10 hours of night driving), which parents must sign on page 2 of the permit to certify practice was completed..
• Be at least 16 years old.
• Passing DMV drive test (3 chances to pass or required to re-apply), 2 week waiting period between failed tests.

Note: Appointments are required for DMV Drive Test, these can be made by calling 1-800-777-0133 or going to a field office.

Provisional Driver's License Restrictions

• You may drive alone with your provisional license.
• During first 6 months, you must be accompanied by a driver 25 years old or older if you drive between the hours of midnight and 5:00 am, or if you transport people under age 20 (at any hour).
• During the second 6 months after you are licensed, you must be accompanied by a driver 25 years old or older if you drive between the hours of midnight and 5:00 am. However, You may transport people under age 20 without supervision between the hours of 5:00 am and midnight.

Exceptions to Provisional Restrictions

• Medical necessity
• School or school-authorized activity
• Employment necessity
• Immediate need of family member
• Emancipated Minor