A provisional driver license allows teens to drive on their own, but California places limits on new drivers during their first year. Before a license is issued, several requirements must be completed.

Age & Timing Rules

To qualify for a provisional license, a teen must:

• Be at least 16 years old

• Have held a learner’s permit for a minimum of 6 months

• Complete all required education and training before scheduling a driving test

Education, Training & Practice

Before applying for the license, the following must be completed:

• Driver’s Education
  (Required for minors under 18)

• Behind-the-wheel driver training with a DMV-licensed instructor

• 50 total hours of supervised driving practice

  • At least 10 hours must be completed at night

• Practice hours must be confirmed by a parent or legal guardian

  • Certification is recorded in the Parent-Teen Training Guide (DL 603)

Required DMV Verification

When applying, the DMV must verify that:

• Driver education and training have been completed
  (Forms provided by the driving school)

• All practice hours have been properly documented

• The learner’s permit is still valid

Driving Test Requirement

To receive a provisional license, the teen must:

• Pass the DMV behind-the-wheel driving test

• If the test is not passed:

  • A 14-day waiting period is required before retesting

  • Up to three attempts are allowed while the permit is valid