The California Provisional Licensing Process

The following has been written with you in mind. Basically, there are five general steps to the licensing process. Within these three area there are other things that will need to be accomplished for a smooth transition in becoming a licensed California driver.

Below is a very basic outline of what needs to happen. First, your teenager will need to obtain a permit. This will enable him/her to drive with an instructor as well as practice with you.

Step 1- Driver Education
Take and complete driver education. You can do this live, online, or a combination of both. The student will obtain a certificate of completion for the course. This certificate is one of two certificates you need to obtain your permit.  *These certificates are pink or blue in color. Go to step 2.

Step 2 -Enroll in Driver Training.
You need to enroll into a driver training program to obtain the enrollment certificate. This certificate combined with the completion of driver education (Step one) will allow you to test for your permit. There are two ways to obtain this certificate. You can request it while in driver education or you can simply complete Driversity East Bay's enrollment form online. To do that go here. Go to step 3.

Step 2.5 - Go to DMV
After obtaining the certificates from step 1 and step 2 make an appointment at DMV. You can do that here.  Write down your appointment time. Before your test gather together the following things: Both certificates, birth certificate, Social Security Number, $27 and arrive a few minutes prior to your appointment. The test is 46 questions. You can miss up to 8 questions. If all goes well you will be issued a permit. Go to step four.

Step 3 - Driver Training
Complete 6 hours behind the wheel. Obtain the completion certificate for this course, wait 6 months, 50 hours of practice with parents, must be at least 16, return back to DMV for the road test. Go to step 5.

Step 3.5 - Go to DMV
Road tests are designed to test your skill and knowledge. Upon passing (85% or better) you will be issued your California Driver License.

There . That's not so bad... right?

All steps are linked above. Use this navigation as you make your way through the program. Each step states in detail what is required in hopes of preparing you and for this somewhat complicated process.