PassMyDMV

California DMV Practice Test

California's DMV written test is designed to ensure that all new drivers have a solid understanding of traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices before obtaining their learner's permit. California offers permits for standard cars and motorcycles, as well as commercial driver licenses for professional drivers. The test is comprehensive and practical, covering the essential knowledge every driver needs to stay safe and follow California's traffic laws. All practice questions on PassMyDMV are drawn from the official California Driver Handbook and California Motorcycle Handbook, so you're studying the exact material the California DMV uses to create its written tests.

Available California practice tests

What's on the California written test

California's DMV written test covers standard traffic laws and road safety topics including road signs and signals, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking regulations, and safe driving practices. The test includes questions about alcohol and drug impairment, sharing the road with other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, and vehicle control in various weather conditions. California-specific topics may include school zone safety laws, carpool lane rules, environmental regulations, and local traffic laws that vary by region. The test emphasizes practical knowledge that applies to California's diverse driving environments, from busy urban freeways to rural highways.

Car / standard license

California's written learner permit test has 46 questions for applicants under 18, and you must answer at least 38 correctly (83%) to pass. For applicants 18 and older, the test has 36 questions and you must answer at least 30 correctly (83%) to pass. The application fee is $38, which is valid for 12 months and covers your permit, up to three knowledge test attempts, and your driving test. If you fail the test three times, you must wait seven days and pay the $38 fee again. For minors who fail, there is a 7-day waiting period before retaking. The test is available in 35 languages including English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and others.

Motorcycle endorsement

California's motorcycle endorsement written test consists of either 20 questions (with 16 correct needed) or 25-30 questions depending on the format (with 20-24 correct needed to pass). The test covers rules of the road, safe driving practices, and laws specific to motorcycle operation. The test is based on information in the California Motorcycle Handbook and the California Driver Handbook. The application fee covers motorcycle endorsement testing.

Commercial driver license (CDL)

California's commercial driver license program requires applicants to pass the general knowledge test plus additional tests for specific endorsements as needed. All CDL applicants must take the general knowledge test and pass tests for any endorsements they're seeking. Available endorsements include Hazmat (H), Passenger (P), School Bus (S), Tank Vehicles (N), Doubles/Triples (T), Air Brakes, and Combination Vehicles. Each endorsement test focuses on specialized knowledge needed to safely operate that type of vehicle. All knowledge tests required by the California DMV must be taken using the Automated Knowledge Testing equipment (AKTE).

Study tips for the California written test

  • Study the official California Driver Handbook thoroughly, paying special attention to road signs and right-of-way rules, which are heavily tested.
  • Take the free practice test on the California DMV website repeatedly until you consistently score above 83% — this is higher than many other states, so extra preparation is important.
  • Focus on California-specific laws such as carpool lane regulations, school zone safety, and seat belt laws, as these are frequently tested.
  • Memorize all road signs and signals, paying special attention to California-specific warning signs and informational signs.
  • Study right-of-way rules and intersection driving thoroughly, as these topics frequently appear in multiple forms on California's test.
  • Learn about California's alcohol and impairment laws, environmental regulations for vehicles, and seat belt requirements, which are important for the test.
  • If you're under 18, note that you need to answer 38 out of 46 questions correctly (83%), which is a higher passing percentage than some states — prepare accordingly.

More California resources

Official agency: California Department of Motor Vehicles.

Frequently asked questions

How many questions are on the California permit test?
For applicants under 18, the test has 46 multiple-choice questions. For applicants 18 and older, the test has 36 questions.
What's the passing score for the California written test?
You must answer at least 38 out of 46 questions correctly (83%) if you're under 18. If you're 18 or older, you must answer at least 30 out of 36 questions correctly (83%).
How much does the California written knowledge test cost?
The application fee is $38, which is valid for 12 months and covers your permit, up to three knowledge test attempts, and your driving test.
How old do I have to be to take the California permit test?
You must be at least 15.5 years old to apply for a California learner's permit.
Can I take the California DMV test in Spanish or other languages?
Yes, California's written test is available in 35 languages including English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Tagalog, Russian, Armenian, Hindi, Punjabi, and many others. Translations and interpreter services are also available.
How many times can I retake the California written test?
Your $38 application fee covers up to three attempts to pass the test within 12 months. If you fail as a minor (under 18), you must wait seven days before retaking. If you're 18 or older, you can retake after the next business day. If you fail all three times, you must reapply and pay the $38 fee again.
Is the California permit test online or in person?
California's written permit test is administered in person at California DMV offices. However, some DMV services can be completed online through the MyDMV portal.
What documents do I need to bring to the California DMV?
You'll typically need a valid form of identification, proof of California residency, and your Social Security number. Specific document requirements may vary, so check the California DMV website (dmv.ca.gov) for detailed information based on your individual situation.

Practice tests for other states