Step 1: Understand What a Driver’s Permit and Driver’s License Are

• Driver’s Permit: A learner’s permit allows you to practice driving under certain conditions before getting your driver’s license.
• Driver’s License: A driver’s license allows you to drive a vehicle on your own.

Part 1: Applying for a Driver’s Permit

Step 2: Meet the Eligibility Requirements

• You must be at least 15 ½ years old to apply for a driver’s permit in California.
• If you are under 18, you must be enrolled in or have completed a driver’s education course.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

You need specific documents to prove your identity, Social Security number, and California residency. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Proof of Identity: A valid passport, birth certificate, or other government-issued ID.
• Proof of Social Security Number: Your Social Security card or a document showing your SSN, such as a pay stub or tax document.
• Proof of California Residency: Two documents that show your name and address in California, such as utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements.
• Driver’s Education Completion Certificate (if under 18): Proof that you have completed a driver’s education course.

Step 4: Complete the Application Form

You need to fill out the Driver License or Identification Card Application (Form DL 44). Here’s how:

• Get the Form: You can download it from the California DMV website or get it from a local DMV office.
• Fill It Out: Enter your name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, and other personal details. Make sure everything is accurate.

Step 5: Make an Appointment

It’s recommended to make an appointment at your local DMV office to avoid long wait times. You can do this online on the DMV website or by calling the DMV.

Step 6: Visit the DMV Office

Go to the DMV office with your completed application form and required documents. Here’s what you’ll do there:

1. Submit Your Documents: Show your proof of identity, Social Security number, residency, and driver’s education completion (if under 18).
2. Take the Vision Test: The DMV will test your vision to ensure you can see well enough to drive.
3. Take the Knowledge Test: You will take a written test about California traffic laws and signs. You must pass this test to get your permit.
4. Provide a Thumbprint: The DMV will take your thumbprint for identification purposes.
5. Have Your Photo Taken: The DMV will take your photo for your permit.
6. Pay the Fee: There is a fee for the permit. You can check the current fee on the DMV website or call the DMV.

Step 7: Receive Your Driver’s Permit

After passing the knowledge test and completing all steps, you will receive your driver’s permit. You can now practice driving with a licensed adult over 25 years old.

Part 2: Applying for a Driver’s License

Step 8: Meet the Practice Requirements

• If you are under 18, you must practice driving for at least 6 months and complete 50 hours of supervised driving (10 hours at night).

Step 9: Make an Appointment for the Driving Test

When you are ready, make an appointment at the DMV for your driving test. You can do this online on the DMV website or by calling the DMV.

Step 10: Gather Required Documents

• Driver’s Permit: Bring your driver’s permit.
• Proof of Insurance: Bring proof that the vehicle you will use for the driving test is insured.
• Proof of Completed Practice Hours (if under 18): A signed statement from your parent or guardian confirming you have completed 50 hours of practice driving.

Step 11: Take the Driving Test

Go to the DMV office with your required documents and take the driving test. Here’s what you’ll do:

1. Submit Your Documents: Show your driver’s permit, proof of insurance, and completed practice hours (if under 18).
2. Pass the Driving Test: An examiner will observe you driving to ensure you can drive safely and follow traffic laws.

Step 12: Receive Your Driver’s License

If you pass the driving test, you will receive a temporary driver’s license. Your official driver’s license will be mailed to you within a few weeks.

Important Tips:

• Study for the Tests: Use the California Driver Handbook to study for the knowledge and driving tests.
• Practice Driving: Get plenty of practice to feel confident and safe behind the wheel.
• Check Your Mail: Make sure to check your mail regularly for your new driver’s license.
• Keep It Safe: Once you receive your driver’s license, keep it in a safe place. Don’t carry it with you unless necessary.

Need Help?

If you have questions or need assistance, you can:

• Visit the California DMV Website: dmv.ca.gov
• Call the DMV: 1-800-777-0133
• Visit a Local DMV Office: Find the address on the DMV website.