How to Obtain Your Learner's Permit in California

If you are a new driver under the age of 18 the first step toward getting a drivers license in California is to apply for a learners permit. Rules in the state of California have changed recently so it is important to know the latest information.

The earliest at which you can apply for a learner's permit in California is 15.5 years old. You must take either an in-classroom or online drivers education class and show proof that you have passed the course. Many high schools no longer offer a driver's education class anymore. I highly recommend taking an online class which gives you the flexibility of learning at your own pace and taking the written test over and over until you are comfortable with the rules of the road.

1. Save money with an online driver's education class . The first thing you need to do is complete and pass a driver's education class. I recommend an online drivers education class offered by California Drivers Ed which is taken by many homeschooled students. It's inexpensive and the Automobile Association gives a discount to members. For less than $20 you can take the course and repeat the practice tests until you're ready for the final!

2. Save your DMV Certification of Completion. Once you have completed the classroom training you will be provided with written proof that you have successfully completed the course. Be sure to save this documentation as it is a critical piece of information you will need to bring with you to the DMV when applying for your permit.

3. Save a trip to the DMV -Obtain form DL44 by mail. You must obtain form DL44 by mail or by picking up this form at a DMV office. This form is not available online because original signatures are required plus there is a unique barcode printed on every form. I called our local DVM office and received the form in the mail in 3 business days and saved myself plenty of time. NOTE: Both parents' signatures are required on this form. Link here for information on signatures required.

4. Save time by making an appointment with the DMV. Many people fail the first step in getting a permit. They wait in line at their local DMV rather than make an appointment online. This is so important in saving time because you can schedule the exact date and time that fits your schedule. Just click on the California DMV appointment link and select "Office visit appointment". Select the office that is convenient to you. If one office is not available for the date and time you want, try another nearby office.

5. Be prepared - bring these THREE documents. Bring the printed appointment confirmation with you to the DMV. In addition to the appointment confirmation letter you will need an ORIGINAL birth certificate or other original proof of your birth such as a valid passport. Failure to bring this will reject you from the process and you will have to make another appointment. Thirdly bring your completed form DL44 (signed by both parents). Do not have the teen sign it yet, that is done in person at the DMV.

6. Pay the fees. Bring check, cash, debit card (new) or money order (no credit cards are accepted). The fee to get your learner's permit is $31 at the time this was written. The DMV does not accept credit cards so be sure you have one of these forms of payment listed. The DMV just started accepting debit cards. For a full list of DMV fees click here. The fee entitles you to three exams of any type within the 12-month window and pays for both the instruction permit and the driver license. If all requirements are not met within the 12-month period, the application becomes void and you have to complete all of the steps again.

7. Take the tests at the DMV. You want to practice up and be prepared to take the written test and an eye exam (if you have corrected vision be sure to bring your glasses or have your contact lenses on). Your test will be graded upon completion. Of course you've passed and are just moments away from getting your California learners permit!

The learners permit is good for 12 months. You must now get 50 hours of behind-the-wheel experience with 6 of those hours from an accredited driver's school. The other hours must be with an adult and include 10 hours of night time driving.

Stay safe, and consider reviewing these all of these safety tips from the DMV. Good luck and safe driving!