Are you age 15 to 17-1/2? Discover the path from learner’s permit to licensed driver and beyond.
1. Requirements & Restrictions
![DMV character Cali celebrating 15th birthday.](https://dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2023/10/Lifecycle-of-a-Driver_Stage-1-1_360x180.jpg)
You need to be between 15 and 17 1/2 years of age to apply for a learner’s permit. Learn more about age requirements and restrictions.
2. The Exciting Journey Ahead
![DMV character Cali driving in blue car with father.](https://dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2023/10/Teen-Microsite_The-Exciting-Journey-Ahead_360x180.jpg)
You’ll be driving in no time! Use these tips and checklists to prepare for your driver’s license journey.
3. Take Driver’s Training
![DMV character Cali scheduling permit test.](https://dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2023/10/Lifecycle-of-a-Driver_Stage-2-1_360x180.jpg)
Learn more about driver’s training programs and how to receive your certifications of completions.
4. Apply for Your License
![DMV character Cali applying for driver's license online.](https://dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2023/10/Lifecycle-of-a-Driver_Stage-2-2_360x180-2.jpg)
Start your application online. Select MVProctor Online to take the online knowledge test at home from your computer.
5. Pass the Written Test
![DMV character Cali passing the knowledge test.](https://dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2023/10/Lifecycle-of-a-Driver_Stage-2-4_360x180-2.jpg)
Passing the knowledge test shows that you understand traffic laws and safety and are ready to get your instruction permit.
6. Get Your Learner’s Permit
![](/portal/uploads/2023/10/Lifecycle-of-a-Driver_Stage-1-4_360x180-1.jpg)
Visit a DMV office to finish the permit process with a vision exam, photo, and fees.
7. Practice with Test Buddy
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Sign up to become a DMV Test Buddy and help us research how technology can improve the driver’s license testing process.
8. Test Behind the Wheel
![DMV character Cali in the car with her father ready for her driving test.](https://dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2023/10/Lifecycle-of-a-Driver_Stage-3-1_360x180-1-1.jpg)
Once you finish your practice hours, you’ll take your drive test. Good luck!
9. You and DMV
![DMV character Cali passes driving test.](https://dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2023/10/Lifecycle-of-a-Driver_Stage-3-4_360x180-1.jpg)
Congratulations! From now on, most of your DMV business can be done online with your MyDMV account – just add your DL# to your MyDMV profile.
Next Steps for New Drivers
Congratulations on becoming a licensed California driver!
Here are a few tips to make sure it’s a smooth road ahead:
– Always follow the rules of the road and laws you just learned
– Drive safely and defensively
– Do not text and drive
– Do not drink and drive
– If you have a vehicle, renew your registration every year
– Stay up to date on smog certifications
– Renew your driver’s license every 5 years
Now that you have a MyDMV account, you will be able to start and/or complete most of your business online and on your mobile device.
Buying Your First Car
![DMV character Cali buys first car.](https://dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2023/10/Lifecycle-of-a-Driver_Stage-4-1_360x180.jpg)
Know your rights and responsibilities before buying a vehicle and learn what you can do to protect yourself before signing a contract.
Registering Your Car
![DMV character Cali registering her vehicle.](https://dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2023/10/Lifecycle-of-a-Driver_Stage-8-1_360x180.jpg)
What you need to do to register your vehicle and the steps to get it done depends on how/where you purchase it.
Replacing a Lost License
![DMV character Cali losing her license and applying for a replacement card.](https://dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2023/10/Lifecycle-of-a-Driver_Stage-7-1_360x180-1.jpg)
If your license is lost, damaged or stolen, apply for a replacement card. You can convert to a REAL ID if you don’t have one yet.
Renewing Your Registration
![DMV character Cali renews vehicle registration.](https://dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2023/10/Lifecycle-of-a-Driver_Stage-6-1_360x180-1.jpg)
You need to renew your vehicle registration card and sticker once a year. Keep your registration current to avoid late fees and suspensions.