Free California permit practice tests with 185 exam-style questions, a timed mock exam sized to the real test, flashcards, a road-sign quiz, and an on-device AI tutor grounded in the official California driver handbook. The official California written knowledge test has 36 questions and requires 83% to pass.
About the California written test
Knowledge (written) test: For applicants under 18, the test has 46 multiple-choice questions from the California Driver's Handbook; you must answer at least 38 correct (about 83%). For applicants 18+, the test is 36 questions and you must get 30 correct (about 83%). A limited number of retakes is allowed (a behind-the-wheel retest carries a $9 fee).
Vision test: Required at application (standard 20/40 with both eyes for an unrestricted license).
Road (drive) test: Required for all first-time drivers. Demonstrates safe vehicle operation — control, signaling, lane changes, turns, intersections, and obeying traffic laws. By appointment; the vehicle must be registered, insured, and safe. The drive test has no separate application fee, but a re-test after a failed attempt is $9.
Getting licensed in California
Instruction Permit (Stage 1): Available at age 15½ (and under 18). Requires a Certificate of Completion or Enrollment in driver education from a licensed driving school, parent/guardian signature, and passing the knowledge and vision tests. The permit holder must always be accompanied by a licensed driver age 25 or older (parent, guardian, spouse 25+, or a licensed/certified instructor) seated next to them. The permit alone does not allow solo driving.
Provisional Driver License (Stage 2): Available at age 16, after holding the instruction permit for at least 6 months. Requirements: complete driver education (30 hours classroom or equivalent home-study/internet course) and driver training (6 hours behind-the-wheel with a professional instructor), plus 50 hours of supervised practice with an adult 25+ holding a valid California license — at least 10 of those 50 hours at night. The parent/guardian must sign certifying the 50 hours were completed.
First-12-month restrictions: No driving 11:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m., and no passengers under 20 unless accompanied by a licensed driver 25+. Exceptions (medical necessity, school/work, or immediate-family need) require signed documentation and apply only when reasonable transportation alternatives are inadequate.
Full License (Stage 3): Provisional restrictions automatically end at age 18.
California written-test FAQ
What is the minimum age to apply for a California instruction permit?
15½.
How old must the supervising driver be while you hold an instruction permit?
At least 25.
How long must you hold the instruction permit before taking the driving test?
At least 6 months.
How many hours of supervised practice are required, and how many at night?
50 hours total, at least 10 at night.
How many hours of professional behind-the-wheel training are required?
6 hours.
How many hours of classroom driver education must an under-18 applicant complete?