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California road test checklist

For your behind-the-wheel drive test. Print it, or keep it open on your phone.

Bring

  • Your instruction permit (or your license, if you have one).
  • A California-licensed driver aged 18 or older (25 or older if you're under 18), unless you're already licensed.
  • A vehicle that is safe to drive for the test.
  • Valid proof of insurance and the vehicle's registration.
  • Driving a rental? Your name must be on the rental contract, and the contract must not exclude drive tests.

Handbook Section 3, page 6.

The examiner checks the car first

  • The driver's window opens.
  • The windshield gives you and the examiner a full, clear view. Cracks may postpone your test.
  • At least two rearview mirrors, one of them on the left side.
  • The left and right brake lights work.
  • Tires have at least 1/32 inch of tread. No donut spare.
  • The brake pedal stops at least one inch above the floorboard when you press it.
  • The horn works and can be heard from at least 200 feet away.
  • You can show how to set and release the parking brake.
  • You can give the arm signals for a left turn, a right turn, and slowing or stopping.
  • You can find the windshield wipers' control and may be asked to show they work.
  • Every seat belt works, and everyone in the car wears one.
  • If the car doesn't meet these, the test is rescheduled.

Handbook Section 3, page 6.

During the drive

  • Only the examiner rides with you. Exceptions are made for training, service animals and some law enforcement situations.
  • An interpreter can help with the car check, but can't ride along.
  • No recording devices. If one can't be turned off, block it.
  • Driver-assist features such as automated parallel parking, lane departure and adaptive cruise control aren't allowed. A backup camera or blind spot monitor can be used, but still check your mirrors and blind spots yourself.
  • The examiner may give two instructions at once, such as a left turn at the next street and another at the first intersection.

Handbook Section 3, pages 5 and 7.

Under 18, before you book

  • You're at least 16.
  • You've held your instruction permit for at least 6 months (or you've turned 18).
  • You can prove you finished driver education and driver training.
  • You've practiced at least 50 hours with a California-licensed driver aged 25 or older, 10 of them at night.
  • If you don't pass, you wait 14 days before the next drive test, not counting the day you failed.

Handbook Section 2, page 3; Section 3, page 6.

From the California Driver Handbook (DL 600 R6 2025): Section 2 and Section 3, The testing process. Book the drive test at dmv.ca.gov/make-an-appointment (Section 3, page 5).