How to get a California driver’s license (adult Class C)
Compiled from the California DMV website. Other states differ. Confirm on the official site before you go.
-
Which path you are on
- Never held a license: instruction permit first, then road test;
- US out-of-state license: out-of-state process;
- Foreign license: out-of-state process and you must pass the road test;
- Temporary lawful presence: license expires with that document.
Official sources: California DMV: Driver’s Licenses; California DMV: Learner’s Permits
Last reviewed 2026-10-30 -
Start online and book an appointment
- Start online, finish at a DMV office;
- Book an appointment for the permit visit.
Official sources: California DMV: Driver’s Licenses; California DMV: Learner’s Permits
Last reviewed 2026-10-30 -
What to bring and do at the DMV
- SSN when required;
- Original identity documents;
- Proof of residency if first CA DL/ID;
- Fee, thumbprint, vision, photo;
- Knowledge test 80% pass, 3 tries;
- Must start by 4:30 p.m.
Official sources: California DMV: Driver’s Licenses; California DMV: Learner’s Permits
Last reviewed 2026-10-30 -
Study for the knowledge test
- DMV handbook (including Korean);
- DMV sample tests;
- Free 328-question practice (Korean UI: 한국어).
Official sources: California DMV: Driver’s Handbooks; California DMV: Sample Knowledge Tests
Last reviewed 2026-10-30 -
Road test
- Appointment required;
- Insurance proof (min 30/60/15);
- Foreign-license holders need an accompanying licensed driver;
- 3 attempts included in the application fee.
Official sources: California DMV: Driver’s Licenses; California DMV: Learner’s Permits; California DMV: Licensing Fees
Last reviewed 2026-10-30 -
Fees
- First Class C application $46, non-refundable, valid 12 months;
- Card payments add a service fee.
Official sources: California DMV: Licensing Fees; California DMV: Driver’s Licenses
Last reviewed 2026-10-30 -
REAL ID
- Gold bear and star mark;
- Since 7 May 2025 domestic flights need passport, REAL ID or other federally accepted ID;
- Two proofs of residency.
Official sources: California DMV: REAL ID; California DMV: Learner’s Permits
Last reviewed 2026-10-30
Passed the knowledge test? See Spanish after-test checklist or Chinese version while the English page is in progress.
FAQFrequently asked questions
QCan I exchange a foreign license without a road test?
No.
QCan I study in Korean or Chinese?
Yes — DMV publishes handbooks and samples in several languages.
QWhat if I fail the knowledge test?
3 attempts per application, then reapply.
QCan F-1 or H-1B holders get a license?
Yes; it expires with lawful presence.
QIs REAL ID required?
Not by itself, but needed (or a passport) for domestic flights since 7 May 2025.