Real ID requirements will be in place on October 1st, 2021. If you intend to get a REAL ID, you will likely need to visit a DMV in person.

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Important Notice About Real ID Implementation

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How to Apply for a Driver’s License in California

Without a valid California driver’s license, you’re not legally allowed to operate a vehicle in the state. That’s why it’s crucial to understand how to apply for the right driving credential before getting behind the wheel. Knowing where to go and what steps to take can make the licensing process smoother and faster.

Keep in mind that the application process varies depending on your age. If you’re 18 or older, you’ll follow a different set of steps than a teenager applying for a first-time license. Minors can only receive a provisional license and must meet additional requirements before upgrading to a full license. Learn more about these options below.

How to Apply for a Drivers License in California as an Adult (18 or Older)

If you’re 18 or older, you’re eligible to apply for a standard, non-commercial California driver’s license—as long as you meet certain requirements. The process is relatively simple if you come prepared with the necessary documents and understand each step.

As long as you’re a California resident and at least 18 years old, you may apply for a full, non-provisional license with no driving restrictions.

You’ll need to meet the following eligibility requirements:
Be a legal resident of California
Provide valid proof of identity and legal U.S. status
Pass the written knowledge and driving skills exams
To get your first California driver’s license, follow these steps:

  1. Make an appointment at your local California DMV office. You cannot apply online.
  2. Complete the Driver License or Identification Card Application (DL 44) and include your Social Security Number (SSN).
  3. Provide original or certified documents verifying your full name, date of birth, and legal residency.
  4. Scan your fingerprints.
  5. Take and pass a vision test.
  6. Pay the required DMV license fee.
  7. Pass the written knowledge exam and road test.
  8. Receive your driver’s license.

F.A.Q.: How long does it take to get your license in the mail in California? Once you pass the driving skills test, you’ll receive a temporary license valid for 90 days. Your permanent license should arrive by mail within 60 days.
For more answers to frequently asked questions, including topics like CA DMV license renewal, visit our CA FAQ page.

Changing Your Drivers License to California From Out of State (New Residents)

If you’ve just moved to California, you must transfer your out-of-state license within 10 days. Be sure to follow the same requirements listed above, including submitting identification documents and passing a knowledge test.

However, since you’ve already held a valid license in another state, you’ll likely be exempt from the road test when transferring your credentials.

How to Apply for a Drivers License in California as a Teen (Younger Than 18)

If you’re under 18, you may be eligible for a provisional driver’s license. This type of license includes specific restrictions—for example, you may not drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., or transport passengers under age 20 unless accompanied by a licensed adult who is at least 25 years old.

Understanding the steps to earn a provisional license helps you prepare and avoid delays. Keep reading to learn how to qualify.

California Driver’s License Eligibility Requirements for Teens (Younger Than 18)

To apply for a license as a teen in California, you must:

  • Be 16 to 18 years old.
  • Hold a valid learner’s permit for at least six months.
  • Provide proof of driver education completion.
  • Log 50 hours of supervised driving (including 10 at night), verified with signatures from a parent/guardian and driving instructor.
  • Pass the DMV driving test.

Your learner’s permit (also known as an instruction permit) must be held for six months before applying for a provisional license. This permit is available to applicants at least 15½ years old but under 18.

Teens must also:
Provide necessary documents
Pay application fees
Pass both a vision test and the written exam
Submit fingerprints and a photo

Note that driver’s education is mandatory for applicants under 18 but not required for those 18 and older.

Steps for Getting a Driver’s License in California as a Teen (Younger Than 18)

To make the process easier, it’s helpful to know what to bring and what to expect. Follow these steps to apply as a teen:

  1. Schedule an appointment at your local California DMV and arrive at the set time.
  2. Complete the DL 44 application and include your SSN.
  3. Obtain parent/guardian signatures verifying 50 hours of supervised driving.
  4. Submit original or certified documents showing your name, date of birth, residency, and legal U.S. presence.
  5. Provide proof of driver’s education completion or enrollment.
  6. Have your fingerprints scanned.
  7. Pass the vision screening.
  8. Pay the required license fee.
  9. Take and pass the behind-the-wheel driving test.
  10. Get your driver’s license.

California Drivers License Costs

Before applying, it’s helpful to understand the fees involved. A standard California driver’s license application requires a $45 non-refundable fee. This fee gives you three attempts at the written test and one road test within a 12-month period.

If you fail the driving test, each retest costs $9. After three failed attempts, the application becomes invalid and must be restarted. Note that there are no discounts or reduced fees for driver’s license applications.

Note: To renew a license after it expires or replace a lost California driver’s license, different fees apply based on your situation.

Last updated on Wednesday, June 11 2025.