PassMyDMV

California Permit Test Practice

Get ready for the California learner's permit knowledge test with free practice questions pulled straight from the official California driver manual.

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.

About this section of the California test

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.

Start practicing

Open the California practice test — pick car, motorcycle, or CDL, then drill quick quizzes or full simulated exams.

Read the source manual

Browse the official California driver manual — every practice question deep-links to the page that explains the rule.

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.

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