Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Your Driver’s License
1. Learner’s Permit
If you are under age 18 here are the steps to receive your learner’s permit.
- Be at least 15 ½
- You’ll need to hold your permit for 6 months and a day before you can take your driver’s test.
- Your permit is not valid until your first lesson with a licensed instructor.
2. Complete a Driver’s Education Course
- California requires 30-hours of in-class training to receive your certificate of completion. You may complete these through your school program, our online program, or our in-person Driver Education in Clovis, CA.
- Receive your certificate from us.
3. Apply for a Learner’s Permit
- Complete the California driver’s License Application. Or apply for your Real ID.
- Make your appointment at your local DMV.
- Come prepared to pay the application fee, pass vision exam, and take photo.
- If you’re over 18 years old, you may download the official California Driver Handbook here.
- You may take our practice test to help you prepare for the written test.
4. Practice Driving
- As soon as you pass your written test at the DMV, you may schedule your first lesson with us to activate your learner’s permit.
- Our lessons are 2hours of behind-the-wheel training and you’ll be required to complete 3 lessons for your certificate.
- Schedule your lessons 2-weeks to 2-months apart to give time to practice what you learn between lessons.
- Log in to your portal to review your notes left by your instructor.
5. Take Your Driving Test
- Schedule a driving test online at www.dmv.ca.gov.
- Review the DMV Driving Performance Evaluation Sheet.
- Pass the driving test.
Remember
During the first 12 months, a minor cannot:
- Transport passengers under 20 years unless accompanied by a licensed: Parent or guardian, California driver 25 years old or older, or certified driving instructor.
- Drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
