California Permit Test 2026

The California permit test has 46 multiple-choice questions if you’re under 18, or 36 questions if you’re 18 or older, based on the official California driver handbook. Every practice question on this site is written to reflect that same format and content — not copied from the real California DMV exam.

To pass, you need 38 correct answers if under 18 (about 83%), or 30 correct if 18 or older (about 83%). That's the standard the California DMV uses to score the written knowledge test.

The passing score is 38 correct answers if under 18 (about 83%), or 30 correct if 18 or older (about 83%). If you don't pass, you get up to three attempts on your application before you have to reapply — minors wait 7 days between attempts, while applicants 18 and older can retest the next business day.

You get three attempts at the written test per application before you must reapply. If you’re under 18, California DMV requires a 7-day wait (not counting the day you failed) before retesting; if you’re 18 or older, you can retest as soon as the next business day.

You must be at least 15½ years old to apply for a California instruction permit (and under 18 at the time of application).

If you're under 18, you'll need to complete 30 hours of DMV-approved driver education (or be enrolled in an approved integrated program), have a parent or guardian sign your application, bring proof of identity and California residency, pay the application fee, and pass a vision exam. While permitted, you must be accompanied by a licensed driver 25 or older in the front passenger seat.