Practice Test 1: California DMV Permit Practice Test

Mixed questions from every handbook chapter. Based on the California driver handbook. Free, with instant answers.

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California DMV practice tests

Choose a full test, the timed exam simulator, or a topic test. Each full test has 20 questions and you need 80% to pass.

Practice Test 1 Mixed questions from every handbook chapter. Practice Test 2 A fresh mix of signs, rules and safe driving. Practice Test 3 Right-of-way, turns, parking and speed. Practice Test 4 Harder scenario questions to test real understanding. Practice Test 5 Final review before your real knowledge test. Exam Simulator 40 timed questions with no feedback until the end. Road Signs Test Signs, signals and pavement markings. Rules of the Road Test Right-of-way, speed limits, turns and passing. Safe Driving Test Defensive driving, weather and distractions. Alcohol & Drugs Test DUI laws, BAC limits and impaired driving. Sharing the Road Test Pedestrians, cyclists, trucks and motorcycles.

About the California DMV written test

The California knowledge test (often searched as the California permit test) checks that new drivers understand road signs, traffic laws and safe driving habits before getting a learner's permit. The questions come from the official California driver handbook published by the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

California applicants take a multiple-choice knowledge test at a DMV office based on the California Driver's Handbook, and a passing score is 80%. Applicants under 18 must also complete driver education and training before they can use the permit.

California permit test quick facts

Minimum permit age
You can apply for an instruction permit at 15½ (under 18), or at 18 or older as an adult.
Passing score
You need a score of at least 80% to pass the knowledge test.
Vision screening
A vision test is required for every applicant.
Adult BAC limit
0.08% for drivers 21+; 0.01% for drivers under 21; 0.04% for commercial vehicles and passengers for hire.
Seat belt law
Everyone in the vehicle must buckle up; drivers can be ticketed if a passenger under 16 is unbelted.

Rules and fees change. Confirm current details with the California Department of Motor Vehicles before you test.

What California drivers should know

  • School zones: 25 mph within 500 feet of a school when children are present, unless posted lower.
  • Give bicyclists at least 3 feet of space when passing.
  • Under-18 provisional drivers cannot drive 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. during the first 12 months.
  • Use low-beam headlights whenever rain, fog or snow requires your wipers.
  • Children under 8 (or under 4 feet 9 inches) must ride in a restraint in the back seat.

Topics covered in our California practice tests

  • Road signs and signals: shapes, colors, pavement markings and traffic lights.
  • Rules of the road: right-of-way, speed, turns, passing, parking and school zones.
  • Safe driving: following distance, night and weather driving, distractions and emergencies.
  • Alcohol and drugs: impaired driving, BAC and penalties.
  • Sharing the road: pedestrians, bicycles, motorcycles and large trucks.

How to pass the California permit test

  1. Read the official California driver handbook, paying close attention to numbers (distances, speeds, BAC limits).
  2. Take Practice Test 1 in study mode and read every explanation.
  3. Work through Tests 2 to 5, then the topic tests for your weakest areas.
  4. Use the Exam Simulator and aim for 80% or higher on several attempts in a row.
  5. Bring the documents your state requires and book your test with the DMV.

California permit test FAQ

How old do you have to be to take the California permit test?

You can apply for an instruction permit at 15½ (under 18), or at 18 or older as an adult.

Is this California DMV practice test free?

Yes. Every California practice test on this site is free, with instant answers and explanations. No sign-up is required.

Are these the real California DMV test questions?

No. These are original practice questions written to cover the same topics as the official California driver handbook. They are not the exact questions on the official exam, and this site is not affiliated with the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

How can I pass the California permit test the first time?

Read the official California driver handbook, take several practice tests until you score 80% or higher consistently, and review the explanation for every question you miss.

How many failed tests are allowed in California?

On an original license application you get three attempts before you must reapply. Minors must wait seven days after a failed test before retrying.

How much supervised practice do teens need in California?

Applicants under 18 need at least 50 hours of practice with a licensed driver aged 25 or older, including 10 hours at night, and must hold the permit for at least 6 months.

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