Author; V. Iyengar, Silicon Valley Chapter

Ages 15.5-17.5

While in this age group, you are considered a minor and must go through the provisional licensing process. 

Step 1: Complete the Driver’s Education Requirement

You must complete a DMV-approved driver’s education course (online, in-person, or at school), which will teach you information like the rules of the road, vehicle maintenance, car controls, etc. You must complete a minimum of 30 hours of instruction before you can obtain you certificate of completion (aka “pink slip), which is required to take your permit test.

Some options for free courses:

• Ask your school if Driver’s Ed is offered for free through your district. 
• FreeDriversEdOnline.com provided by ACE Education Services
  • You can either pick you certificate up in Chino, CA, or have it mailed to you for a small handling fee.
• AdvantageDriverEd.com
  • Your certificate will be mailed to you the day after completion for a small shipping fee. 

Step 2: Pass the DMV knowledge test.

Passing this test will allow you to obtain your learner’s permit. With a permit,  you must drive with a licensed driver (25+ years old) in the front seat. Here’s how to sign up to take a permit test:

• Complete the Driver License/ID Application (DL 44)
  • This is required before your test. You can start it online through the DMV portal, then finish in person. Your parent/guardian will need to sign the application if you’re under 18.
• Make an Appointment
• Go to the DMV’s Online Appointment System. Choose “Office Visit” → “Driver’s License/ID” → “Written Test for Instruction Permit.” Select your local DMV office, date, and time.

Then, make sure to bring the following items with you to the DMV where you will take your permit test:

• Pink slip (DL 400C certificate)
• Application confirmation code/printout (DL 44 form).
  Proof of identity, date of birth, and residency (examples: original birth certificate + Social Security card + school transcript or utility bill with your address).
• Parent/guardian with you (they must sign your paperwork).
• Fee: About $41 (covers permit + license later).

Finally, keep in mind that your photo for your driver’s license is taken when you take you permit test, so make sure to bring a smile!

Step 3: Complete Driver Training

Before you are able to take your driving test, you must complete 6 hours of professional driving lessons with a licensed instructor. The DMV requires at least 6 hours of professional behind-the-wheel instruction with a licensed instructor. These lessons are usually split into three 2-hour lessons. After your first 2 hours, you’re allowed to drive with your parent/guardian (25+ years old), and you must complete 50 hours of supervised practice with a parent/guardian (10 at night).

Step 4: Obtain Driver’s License (Provisional License)

After holding your permit for at least 6 months, you are eligible to take the Driver’s test. To take the test you must be at least 16 years old. After making 15 or fewer minor errors and 0 major errors (see DMV website for more information), you have passed your driving test and have obtained your provisional license. However, for the first 12 months, you must adhere to the following restrictions:

• No driving between 11 PM and 5 AM.
• No passengers under 20 unless with a licensed driver 25+.

Ages 17.5-18

Step 1: Obtain Instruction Permit

Unlike 15.5-17.5 year-olds, you are not required to complete an Instructional Driver’s Ed Course, nor must you hold your permit for 6 months before taking your driving test. After passing your permit test, you can take the driver’s test as soon as you feel ready. You can practice with any licensed driver age 25+.

Step 2: Take and Pass Driver’s Test

Like 15.5-17.5 year olds, you are limited to 15 or fewer minor errors and 0 major errors before you can pass your driver’s test.

To your driver’s test, you must bring: your permit, a licensed 25+ driver, proof of insurance, and a safe car.