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How Many Questions Are on the California Permit Test for Teens?

If you’re a teenager in California getting ready to earn your driver’s permit, one of the most common questions is: How many questions are on the California permit test?


Good news—you’re in the right place. This guide is made specifically for teens under 18 and explains what to expect on the test, how it’s scored, and how to prepare to pass it the first time.


How Many Questions Are on the Permit Test?


For teens under 18, the California DMV permit test consists of 46 multiple-choice questions. To pass, you must answer at least 38 questions correctly—that’s a score of 83% or better.


This permit test is also called the provisional instruction permit test and is the first step in California’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program for teens.


What’s Covered on the Test?


The test questions come directly from the California Driver Handbook. You’ll be tested on important topics such as:

  • Traffic signs, signals, and road markings

  • Right-of-way rules

  • Speed limits and safe following distances

  • Sharing the road with bicycles, pedestrians, and motorcycles

  • Driving under the influence (DUI) laws

  • Defensive driving and hazard awareness

  • Driving in special conditions like rain, fog, and night

Every question is designed to ensure you understand how to drive safely and responsibly.



How Is the Test Given?


As a teen applicant, you’ll take the test:

  • In person at a California DMV office (appointments required)

  • On a touchscreen computer

  • In a multiple-choice format

  • In English or another language with audio options available

There is no time limit, but plan to spend about 30 to 45 minutes at the DMV on test day.



What You Need to Do Before Taking the Test


Before taking the written test, California requires you to:

  • Be at least 15½ years old (you must be between 15½ and 17½ to apply for a provisional instruction permit)

  • Complete a DMV-approved Driver Education Course Teens under 17½ must complete 30 hours of driver education, either in a classroom or online. Most choose an online course because it is:

    • DMV-approved and accessible anytime

    • Interactive and self-paced

    • Easy to complete from a phone or computer


After finishing the course, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion—bring this to your DMV appointment.



How to Prepare for the Permit Test


  1. Read the California Driver Handbook Download it from the California DMV website. Focus especially on rules of the road, traffic signs, and safety tips.

  2. Take an Online Drivers Ed Course A quality course, like MyCaliforniaPermit.com, breaks the material into short lessons, animations, and quizzes to help you understand the content—not just memorize it.

  3. Practice with Sample Tests Taking DMV-style practice tests helps you get familiar with how questions are worded and builds your confidence. Try a free practice test here.



What Happens If You Don’t Pass?


Don’t worry if you don’t pass on your first try. You are allowed three attempts within 12 months.

If you fail, you must wait 7 days before retaking the test. You will not have to pay another fee unless you use all three attempts.



DMV Test Day Tips for Teens


  • Make an appointment with the DMV in advance

  • Bring all your paperwork:

    • Driver’s Ed Certificate of Completion

    • Completed and signed DL 44 form (signed by your parent or guardian)

    • Proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number

  • Study the night before, but avoid cramming

  • Get plenty of sleep and eat a light meal before your appointment

  • Take your time during the test and read each question carefully



Final Thoughts


So, how many questions are on the California permit test for teens? If you’re under 18, expect 46 questions, and you must answer 38 correctly to pass.

It might sound like a lot, but with a good online drivers ed course, practice tests, and focused study time, you’ll be ready in no time.


Ready to start? Join over 1 million California students who have taken their first step toward driving with My California Permit DMV-approved, mobile-friendly, and designed to make learning to drive easy and stress-free.

 


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