Book your California DMV written test appointment online or by phone
You can schedule a written test appointment at the California DMV through the state's online appointment system or by calling 1-800-777-0133. The online system at dmv.ca.gov is usually faster — you select your test type, choose a nearby office, and pick an available date and time. Phone appointments take longer but work if you do not have internet access or prefer to speak with someone.
The written test is the knowledge exam you take before you can drive. In California, this is either the Class D (regular driver's license) test or a Class M (motorcycle) test. You must pass the written test before you can schedule a behind-the-wheel driving test. Most people can book an appointment within one to three weeks of when they call or go online, though wait times vary by location and season.
Key Takeaways
- Schedule online at dmv.ca.gov or call 1-800-777-0133; online is usually faster and available 24 hours.
- You need a valid ID and proof of residency to take the test, so bring both documents on your appointment day.
- The written test covers California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices; you must score at least 38 out of 46 questions correct to pass.
- If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day at most DMV offices, though you may have to pay the test fee again.
- Appointment availability changes daily, so if your preferred time is full, check back the next day or try a different DMV office nearby.
What you need to bring to your written test appointment
Bring a valid form of identification and proof that you live in California. A valid ID can be a passport, military ID, tribal ID, or an ID from another state or country. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The name on your ID and proof of residency should match.
If you are under 18, bring a completed Parental Consent Form (DL 44) signed by a parent or legal guardian. If you are renewing a license or replacing a lost one, bring your old license if you have it. Bring a pen for filling out forms at the office. Do not bring children or other people into the testing area unless they are also taking a test that day.
How the online appointment booking system works
Go to dmv.ca.gov and click "Schedule an Appointment." Select "Knowledge Test" as your transaction type. Choose whether you want a Class D (car), Class M (motorcycle), or other test type. The system will ask for your zip code or city to show nearby DMV offices.
Pick the office you want to visit. The system shows available dates and times for the next several weeks. Select your preferred date and time slot. You will be asked to enter your name, phone number, and email address. The system sends you a confirmation email with your appointment number, date, time, and office address. Save this email or write down your appointment number — you will need it when you arrive.
If the online system shows no available appointments at your preferred office, try a different nearby office or check back the next day. Cancellations happen regularly, and new slots open up throughout the day. You can also call the DMV to book by phone if the website is not working or you need help.
Scheduling by phone and what to expect when you call
Call 1-800-777-0133 to schedule by phone. Wait times are usually 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the time of day and how busy the DMV is. Have your zip code or city ready so the representative can tell you which offices have openings. Tell them what type of test you need (Class D, Class M, or other) and your preferred dates and times.
The representative will confirm your name, phone number, and email address. They will give you an appointment number and send a confirmation to your email. If you do not have an email address, ask the representative to mail the confirmation instead. Write down your appointment number in case the email does not arrive.
What happens on the day of your written test
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring all required documents: your valid ID, proof of residency, and your appointment confirmation. Check in at the front desk and give them your appointment number. A DMV staff member will verify your documents and take your photo for your file.
You will be taken to a testing station where you sit at a computer or receive a paper test. The Class D written test has 46 multiple-choice questions about California traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You have 10 minutes to complete it. You must answer at least 38 questions correctly to pass. The Class M written test has 36 questions and you must answer at least 30 correctly.
After you finish, the DMV staff will score your test when ready. If you pass, you will receive a notice that you can now schedule your behind-the-wheel driving test. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at most offices, though you may have to pay the test fee again. You will have to wait for the next available testing slot, which could be later that same day or a few days later depending on how busy the office is.
Rescheduling or canceling your appointment
To cancel or reschedule, go back to dmv.ca.gov and click "Manage an Appointment." Enter your appointment number and email address. The system will let you cancel or pick a new date and time. You can also call 1-800-777-0133 to reschedule by phone.
If you cancel more than 24 hours before your appointment, you will not lose your spot — you can book a new one right away. If you cancel within 24 hours, the DMV may charge you a no-show fee if you do not reschedule within a certain time frame. If you miss your appointment without canceling, you may have to wait longer to get another slot and could face a fee.
Preparing for the written test content
The California DMV provides a free study guide called the California Driver Handbook, available at dmv.ca.gov in English and other languages. The handbook covers all topics on the written test: speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, lane changes, traffic signals, pedestrian safety, and driving under the influence. Read through the entire handbook at least once before your test.
The DMV also offers sample test questions on their website. Practice with these questions to get used to the format and types of questions you will see. Most people who read the handbook and practice the sample questions pass on their first try. If you fail, review the handbook again, focusing on the topics you missed, and retake the test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I schedule a written test appointment for someone else?
No. The person taking the test must schedule their own appointment or have a parent or legal guardian schedule it for them if they are under 18. When you arrive for the appointment, you must bring valid ID that matches the name on the appointment confirmation.
What if I cannot make my appointment and need to reschedule?
Cancel your appointment through dmv.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-777-0133, then book a new one. If you cancel more than 24 hours in advance, you can reschedule when ready. If you cancel within 24 hours or miss your appointment, you may face a no-show fee and longer wait times for your next slot.
How long does the written test take?
The test itself takes 10 minutes for Class D and slightly less for Class M. However, plan to spend 30 to 60 minutes at the DMV office total, including check-in, document verification, photo, and scoring. Arrive early to account for wait times.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day at most DMV offices. You will have to wait for the next available testing slot, which could be a few hours later. You may have to pay the test fee again. Review the California Driver Handbook before retaking the test, focusing on the topics you missed.
Do I need an appointment to take the written test, or can I just walk in?
You must have a scheduled appointment. Walk-ins are not accepted for written tests at California DMV offices. Schedule your appointment online or by phone as far in advance as possible, especially during busy seasons like summer and early fall.