Test day · Printable · Official sources

California permit test day: what to bring and where to go

Tick off each document as you pack it for the California knowledge test, then find your office and book a time. Every item links to the official California DMV - Instruction and Learner's Permits page it comes from.

Checklist items: 9
Official sources: 4
Cost: Free

QualitySpace Insurance Agency · California permit test checklist

California permit test: what to bring

What to bring to the California permit test

Bring originals unless the official list says copies are accepted. Items marked Under 18 apply only to minors.

Application

Completed California Driver's License or ID Card ApplicationYou can start the application online before your visit.Source: official California page for Completed California Driver's License or ID Card Application

Identity

One proof of identity, such as a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Permanent Resident CardUse the Federal Noncompliant, REAL ID, or AB60 document list that matches the card you want.Source: official California page for One proof of identity, such as a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or Permanent Resident Card
Legal full name document, only if the name on your identity document does not match your applicationSource: official California page for Legal full name document, only if the name on your identity document does not match your application

Social Security number

Your Social Security numberExceptions may apply, for example if you are legally present but not eligible for an SSN.Source: official California page for Your Social Security number

Residency

Two proofs of California residencyExceptions may apply.Source: official California page for Two proofs of California residency

Parent or guardian

A parent or guardian to sign your application (both, if they share joint custody)Under 18Source: official California page for A parent or guardian to sign your application (both, if they share joint custody)

Driver education

Certificate of Completion or Enrollment in Driver EducationUnder 18Source: official California page for Certificate of Completion or Enrollment in Driver Education

Fees

Payment for the non-refundable application feeSource: official California page for Payment for the non-refundable application fee

Vision test

Your glasses or contact lenses, if you use them: you take a vision test at the officeTesting with corrective lenses puts a corrective lenses restriction on your license.Source: official California page for Your glasses or contact lenses, if you use them: you take a vision test at the office

Your ticks are saved on this device only. No account.

Official list: https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-licenses-identification-cards/instruction-permits/

Where to go and how to book

Visit a DMV office for the permit test. The DMV links to online appointment scheduling from its permit page.

Find an officehttps://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/locations/Book an appointmenthttps://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/make-an-appointment/

Source: dmv.ca.gov

Test languages and ID

Test languages

We could not find an official list of test languages for California. Ask your office or check the California DMV - Instruction and Learner's Permits site before you book.

REAL ID

A permit does not have to be a REAL ID. If you want a REAL ID card, bring one identity document with your full name and date of birth and two different documents showing your California address.

Source: dmv.ca.gov

Good to know

Knowledge tests are not given at DMV offices after 4:30 p.m., so arrive early. The passing score is 80%.

Source: dmv.ca.gov

Ready for the test itself?

The documents get you in the door; the questions are what you pass. Take the free California practice test, or see the California DMV facts page for fees, age rules, and the question count.

Sources

Each checklist item quotes its official page. We fetched and checked these pages on 2026-09-29:

Rules change. If your office asks for something not listed here, the office is right. Spot a mistake? Tell us through the contact page.

Reviewed by Kevin Vu, CA DOI #4037122 · Last updated 2026-09-29