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