Get Your Permit Today
Understanding the steps to obtain your driving permit is essential for safe and responsible driving.
Our Process
Step 1
Begin by checking your eligibility for a driving permit. You will need to be at least 15 ½ years old and complete a driver’s education program DriversEd $9.75. Ensure you have the required documents ready for when you apply.
Step 2
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.
- Be at least 15 ½ but under 18.
- Have a Certificate of Completion/Enrollment of DriversEd $9.75
- Complete the California Driver’s License or ID Card Application.(form DL 44)
- Have a parent(s)/guardian(s) sign the application.
- Visit a DMV office (schedule an appointment), where you will:
- Bring your California Identification Card or proof of identity and residency. (Federal Noncompliant/REAL ID/AB60)
- Pay the application fee.
- Pass a vision exam.
- Agree to drug and alcohol tests: You must agree to comply with requests for drug or alcohol tests.
- Take a photo.
Step 3
After submitting your application, you will need to complete a written test to demonstrate your knowledge of traffic laws and safe driving practices.
- knowledge test(s). There are multiple choice questions based on the California Driver’s Handbook, (You must get at least 39 questions right out of 46. You will have three chances to take the test, but you must wait 7 days before taking the test again. If you fail the test all 3 times, you must start over by filling out a new DL44.Upon student’s successful passing knowledge test, Instruction (Learners) Permit will be issued by DMV.
- knowledge test(s). There are multiple choice questions based on the California Driver’s Handbook, (You must get at least 39 questions right out of 46. You will have three chances to take the test, but you must wait 7 days before taking the test again. If you fail the test all 3 times, you must start over by filling out a new DL44.
We offer resources to help you prepare for this step.
Step 4
Next Step. Start behind-the-wheel training.
Schedule 1st 2-hour driving class with Forward Driving School, after which your Instructional Permit will be “Validated” by the driving school instructor and registered with system.
From here, practice driving with a licensed adult. Total need 50 hours.
Remember to log your driving hours as required before you can schedule your driving test.
Student must Complete total 6 hours behind-the-wheel training with Forward Driving School
- 3 lessons – 2 hours each ( 3 to 6 weeks separation in between classes recommended).
- After completing Forward Driving School 6 hours behind-the-wheel training student receive Certificate of 6 hours completion, Form DL400D
A provisional instruction permit does not let you drive alone not even to a DMV office to take a driving test.
Final Step. Provisional License.
To obtain a provisional license you must:
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Have held the instruction permit for at least 6 months
- Have your parent’s or guardian’s signature on your instruction permit verifying that you have completed 50 hours of driving practice, of which 10 hours must have been at night (refer to the Parent-Teen Training Guide
- Pass the behind-the-wheel driving test.
- If you fail, you must wait two weeks before you can take the driving test again.
- Give your thumb print.
- Have your picture taken.
You will receive your Provisional License by mail in a few weeks.
California's , provisional driver's license restrictions :
For the first 12 months, drivers under 18 cannot drive between 11 PM and 5 AM.
Drivers under 18 cannot transport passengers under 20 without being accompanied by a licensed driver who is:
A parent or guardian
A California driver who is 25 years old or older
A certified driving instructor
California has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving.
NOTE: Local laws may further restrict or prohibit driving during specified hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your questions about the permit process here.
In California, you can apply for a learner’s permit at age 15 and a half. Before applying, you need to complete a driver’s education course.
Yes, you will need to pass a written test that covers the rules of the road and safe driving practices. Make sure to study before scheduling your exam.
Your learner’s permit is usually valid for up to 12 months. It’s important to complete your driving practice before it expires to avoid retesting.
No, with a learner’s permit you must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is 25 years of age or older while driving.
You can take your driving test at any DMV office. Make sure to schedule an appointment in advance to secure your spot.
Take the First Step to Freedom
Ready to hit the road? Our driving classes are designed for both teens and adults looking to gain the skills and confidence needed to drive safely. Join us and learn the ins and outs of the road in a supportive environment.
Essential Resources for Your Permit Journey
Explore vital information to assist you in obtaining your driver’s permit. Our resources include DMV guidelines, practice exams, and tips to navigate the process effectively. Whether you’re a teenager or an adult, our goal is to support you at every step of your driving education journey.