Online eLearning Course for Renewals

If you have a knowledge test requirement for your driver’s license (DL), save time and complete it online before visiting a DMV office.

Interactive eLearning Course
• Once you select eLearning Course on your renewal application, you will receive an email with the link to get started. You can access the course through this link, or through your application. Keep the email in your inbox until you have confirmed that DMV has your results.
• Pass only / No fail • Interactive / No preparation required • Self-paced • Not monitored • Can be done on any device
• Currently offered in English, Spanish, and Traditional Chinese (with audio in Mandarin)
• At any day and any time, for the duration of the renewal application (one year)
• Anywhere
• About 20-30 minutes
Any of the following devices with an internet connection: • Mobile device • Tablet • Laptop • Desktop computer

Prepare for Your Knowledge Test

In most cases, you are required to pass knowledge tests showing that you understand traffic laws and safety before you can get an instruction permit or DL.

Here are a few suggestions for studying for your knowledge test(s):

• Review the California Driver’s Handbook. It contains a lot of important information, so give yourself a few days to get through it.
• Read the test questions carefully. There will be one correct answer and the other two answer choices will be either obviously wrong or not appropriate for the question asked. Don’t overthink it; there are no “trick questions.”
• Remember, all the test questions are taken from the handbook. If you miss a question, the field office employee can tell you on which page to find the correct answer.
• Don’t be nervous. DMV wants you to pass your test. Good luck!

Prepare for Your Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test

We require first-time DL applicants, and other applicants who meet certain conditions, to pass a behind-the-wheel drive test before they can get a DL.

The purpose of a drive test is to determine whether you:

• Are able to safely operate a vehicle
• Use safe driving habits
• Can apply your knowledge of traffic laws in real life situations
• Can make up for any physical condition, such as loss of a limb, poor hearing, or a vision condition

The drive test is divided into 2 parts:

• Pre-drive safety check: Determines whether your vehicle meets the minimum DMV safety standards and whether you are familiar with the operation of your vehicle
• Driving Performance Evaluation (DPE): Behind-the-wheel drive test with a DMV examiner who evaluates your driving skills

DMV also offers two additional types of drive tests:

• Supplemental Driving Performance Evaluation (SDPE): Given to applicants of any age who have a physical, mental, or vision condition, and/or a referral due to a lack of skill that may impact their ability to safely operate a vehicle.
• Area Driving Performance Evaluation (ADPE): Limits you to drive only in specified areas. If you are successful with the ADPE, your DL will be restricted to only the specified areas where you were tested.