About the real exam
When you apply for an original California driver’s license, you must pass a multiple-choice knowledge test based on the California Driver’s Handbook and a vision test. After practicing with your instruction permit, you take a behind-the-wheel drive test.
Applying for a Class C instruction permit means completing the application, showing your documents, paying a non-refundable fee, and passing the knowledge and vision tests. Applicants under 18 must be 15½ or older, finish a driver education program and get a parent or guardian’s signature on the application.
How to pass
- The California DMV states that the passing score on the knowledge test is 80%.
- You are allowed three attempts to pass the knowledge test before you must reapply.
- Applicants under 18 who fail must wait seven days, not counting the day of the failed test, before trying again.
- No testing aids are allowed during the knowledge test, including the handbook or a cell phone.
- In-office knowledge tests are not available after 4:30 p.m.
- The DMV does not publish the number of questions on the test. This exam simulation uses 30 questions and requires 24 correct answers, the same 80% passing score.
Study tips
- Read the handbook sections on navigating the roads, laws and rules of the road, and safe driving: most of this practice test comes from them.
- Memorize California’s numbers: 25 mph near schools and in business or residential districts, 15 mph in alleys and at blind intersections, 15 feet from a fire hydrant, 20 feet from a crosswalk.
- Use the practice sets to focus on signs and signals, parking, and alcohol rules.
- Review each mistake and its handbook section before you retake the exam simulation.
California rules that often surprise new drivers
- A left turn on a red light is allowed only from a one-way street onto another one-way street, after stopping.
- You may drive no more than 200 feet in a center left turn lane.
- When you are moving slowly on a two-lane road with five or more vehicles behind you and no safe chance for them to pass, you must pull into a turnout.
- Provisional drivers under 18 may not drive from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. in their first 12 months, and may not carry passengers under 20 unless a parent, guardian or California-licensed driver aged 25 or older rides along.
- Drivers under 21 may not drive with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.01% or more.
Frequently asked questions
What score do I need to pass the California knowledge test?
The California DMV states that the passing score is 80%.
How many times can I take the test?
You get three tries at the knowledge test; after a third failure you must reapply. Applicants under 18 wait seven days after a failed test, not counting that day.
How old must I be to get a California instruction permit?
If you are under 18, you must be at least 15½, have completed driver education, and have a parent or guardian sign your application.
Are these the real DMV test questions?
No. The DMV does not publish its test bank. These are original practice questions written from the official California Driver’s Handbook, and each one cites the handbook section it is based on.
Is KorayGlobal connected to the California DMV?
No. KorayGlobal is an independent study site and is not affiliated with the California DMV or any government agency.
This is an independent practice test, not the official exam. Always confirm the current rules with the official source.