How to Get Your Driver's License in California
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in California. California uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 17.
GDL Stages in California
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Complete drivers education
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 25 or older
Provisional License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 6 months
- Complete 50 hours supervised driving including 10 at night
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. for the first 12 months
- No passengers under 20 for the first 12 months unless accompanied by licensed adult 25+
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Hold provisional license for 12 months
- No at-fault collisions or traffic violations during provisional period
Restricted License Rules
- Provisional drivers may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. during their first year of licensure.
- No passengers under 20 are allowed unless a licensed driver age 25 or older is in the vehicle. Exceptions apply for immediate family members.
How restrictions lift: Restrictions lift after 12 months of holding the provisional license with a clean record, or when the driver turns 18.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Pre-drive safety check
- Vehicle control
- Turns and intersections
- Lane changes and merging
- Parking
- Freeway driving where applicable
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older are not subject to the provisional license restrictions. They can apply directly for a full license after passing the knowledge and driving tests.
California-Specific Information
California requires the supervising driver to be at least 25 years old, the highest supervisor age requirement of any state. The state also mandates professional drivers education before a minor can obtain a permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 17 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in California.
California uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Provisional License, Full Unrestricted License.
- Provisional drivers may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. during their first year of licensure.
- No passengers under 20 are allowed unless a licensed driver age 25 or older is in the vehicle. Exceptions apply for immediate family members.
Adults age 18 and older in California can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older are not subject to the provisional license restrictions. They can apply directly for a full license after passing the knowledge and driving tests.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
California learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in California.
California drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for the most current information.