California DMV · Checked against dmv.ca.gov on October 9, 2026
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 the same day but can book a new appointment for another day. Your $46 application covers 3 drive test attempts within 12 months; after a third failure you reapply and pay again.
The waiting period
The handbook says minors must wait 14 days to retake a failed drive test, not including the day of the failure. For adults, DMV says to schedule a new test on another day and doesn't set a longer wait. In practice, the wait depends on how soon your office has an opening.
The fee
As of October 2026, DMV's fee table lists $9 for a Class C behind-the-wheel retest. DMV's main driver's license page still says $7 in places; the fee table is the current schedule. You pay the retest fee when you return for the next attempt.
Three attempts, then reapply
DMV says that if you fail the driving test three times, your application is no longer valid. You then submit a new application and pay the $46 fee again. The application also expires after 12 months even if you haven't used all 3 attempts.
Use the score sheet
The examiner marks your errors on the DL 32 score sheet. Go over it, practice the exact maneuvers you lost points on, and review the critical driving errors, since one of those fails the test regardless of anything else.
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FAQ
If my car failed the pre-drive check, does that count as an attempt?
DMV says the test is rescheduled if the vehicle doesn't meet requirements. Its pages don't say whether that counts as one of your 3 attempts; ask staff at the office.
Does my permit stay valid between attempts?
Yes, until the expiration date printed on it. Keep practicing with a licensed driver who is at least 18 (25 if you're under 18).
Do I have to pay again if I fail?
Only the $9 retest fee for each new drive test attempt. You don't pay the $46 application fee again unless you fail 3 times or your 12 months run out.
How do I pay the $9 retest fee?
You pay it for each new attempt when you come back for the retest. DMV offices take cash, checks, money orders and cards (2.1% service fee for cards).
Official sources
- dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/licensing-fees/ ↗
- dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/california-driver-handbook/the-testing-process/ ↗
- dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/driver-licenses-dl/ ↗
- dmv.ca.gov/portal/file/driving-performance-evaluation-score-sheet-dl-32-pdf/ ↗