Quick answers
Can I take the California DMV written test in my own language?Yes. The California DMV gives the written (knowledge) test in many languages: its AB 60 page says more than 40. The offi…What documents do I need for a California REAL ID?Bring one identity document (an original or certified copy, no photocopies), your Social Security number, and two differ…I failed the California DMV written test. What now?You get 3 attempts at each required knowledge test on one application. If you fail the same test 3 times, the applicatio…How much does the California DMV written test, drive test and license cost?$46 in total. The written (knowledge) test and the behind-the-wheel drive test aren't charged separately: the $46 Class …How do I get a California driver's license if I'm under 18?Get an instruction permit at 15½ or older. You need a driver education certificate, a parent or guardian's signature and…How do I get an AB 60 driver's license in California?If you can't prove legal presence in the U.S. but can prove your identity and California residency, you can apply for an…I have a foreign driver's license. How do I get a California license?California doesn't exchange a foreign license for a California one. You apply as a new applicant: application, documents…I just moved to California. How do I transfer my driver's license?Apply for a California license soon after you become a resident; DMV's Fast Facts (2020) give a 10-day deadline. With a …What happens at the California DMV drive test?The drive test has two parts: a pre-drive safety check of your car, then the driving itself, scored on DMV's DL 32 sheet…How many questions are on the California DMV written test, and how many can I miss?You need 80% to pass. DMV's current pages don't say how many questions are on the test. An older DMV research report des…How do I book a California DMV appointment?Open DMV's appointment page and pick the type. For a permit, first license or the written test, choose the first-time dr…How long is a California temporary license valid, and when does the real card arrive?After you pass, DMV gives you a temporary license valid for 60 days, and you can drive on it right away. The card is mai…My California license expires when my visa, I-94 or EAD expires. How do I extend it?If you hold temporary legal status, your California license expires on the same date as your U.S. legal presence documen…Can I get a California license with an EAD, a pending green card or another pending status?Yes, with a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD, Form I-766). DMV accepts it for both a REAL ID and a standard …Can I bring an interpreter to the California written test or drive test?For the drive test, an interpreter may help only during the pre-drive check, when the examiner asks you to find and use …Can I use a rental car, Zipcar, Turo or a friend's car for the California drive test?Yes, as long as the car has valid proof of insurance and registration and passes the examiner's pre-drive safety check. …What mistakes automatically fail the California drive test?Any single critical driving error fails the test. DMV's DL 32 score sheet lists 8 categories: examiner intervention, str…I'm 18 or older with a permit. How soon can I take the California drive test?DMV doesn't list a waiting period for adults. The 6-month permit requirement, driver education, driver training and 50 p…When does a California instruction permit expire, and what do I do if mine expired?You can't drive on an expired permit. DMV's application and fee are valid for 12 months, and if they expire before you f…My name doesn't match across documents. Can I still get a California REAL ID?Usually yes, if you bring documents that connect the names. DMV requires your identity document to show your full legal …Renewing a California license at 70 or older: in person? Vision test? Written test?If you're 70 or older when your license expires, you must renew in person at a DMV office and pass a vision test. Since …Do I need a REAL ID if I have a passport?No. TSA says a passport is acceptable identification and may be used instead of a REAL ID for domestic flights and feder…I failed the California drive test. How long until I can retake it, and what does it cost?Each retest costs $9. If you're under 18, you must wait 14 days, not counting the day you failed. Adults can't retest th…Do I need proof of insurance for the California DMV drive test?Yes. DMV's handbook lists valid proof of insurance and vehicle registration among the things you must bring to the drive…What does my car need to pass the California DMV drive test check?Before you drive, the examiner checks your car. The driver window must open, the windshield must give a clear view, and …What can I use as proof of California residency at the DMV?One document for a standard license, two different ones for a REAL ID. DMV accepts things like a signed lease, mortgage …What do road sign shapes and colors mean in California?The shape tells you the type of sign before you can read it. An octagon is STOP, a downward triangle is YIELD, a 5-sided…