The California DMV driving test has three parts: the vehicle inspection, the driving portion, and the scoring
The California DMV written test (called the knowledge test) and the driving test (called the behind-the-wheel test) are separate exams. This article covers the behind-the-wheel test — what happens when you sit in a car with a DMV examiner and drive on public roads.
The test lasts about 20 minutes. You drive on city streets, highways, or both, depending on which DMV office you visit and what route the examiner chooses that day. The examiner sits in the passenger seat, watches your driving, and marks down errors on a scoring sheet. You need to pass with no more than 15 points deducted out of a possible 35 points.
The test does not change year to year. What changes in 2025 is the wait time to schedule one — California DMV has a backlog, and appointment availability varies by location and season. Some offices have openings within weeks; others have waits of several months.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring your permit, proof of vehicle registration, proof of insurance, and a valid ID to the test appointment.
- The vehicle you drive must pass a pre-test inspection (lights, wipers, horn, brakes, steering) or the test will not begin.
- You fail if you commit a critical error (running a red light, hitting a curb, unsafe lane change) or accumulate more than 15 points in minor errors.
- You can schedule your test online at dmv.ca.gov or by phone at 1-800-777-0133, and you can check real-time availability at your local office.
What documents and vehicle you need to bring
Bring your valid California permit (the learner's permit you received after passing the knowledge test). Bring your proof of vehicle registration — the registration card or a printout from your online account. Bring proof of insurance — a current insurance card or declaration page with your name and the vehicle's name on it. Bring a valid photo ID — a passport, state ID, or other government-issued ID.
The vehicle itself must be street-legal and in working condition. Before the test begins, the examiner will check the headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, windshield wipers, horn, steering, brakes, and seat belts. If any of these fail the inspection, the test stops and you do not drive. You can reschedule and return with a different vehicle or after repairs.
The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name — you can borrow a family member's car — but the registration and insurance must match the vehicle you bring. If you show up with a car that is not on your insurance, the test will not happen.
The vehicle inspection and what causes an automatic stop
The examiner performs a pre-drive safety check before you leave the parking lot. They will ask you to turn on the headlights, high beams, turn signals, windshield wipers, and defroster. They will ask you to press the brake pedal and check that the brake lights work (they may walk behind the car to see this). They will test the horn. They will check that the steering wheel moves freely and the seat belt works.
If the vehicle fails any part of this inspection, the test ends when ready and you are not charged a fee — you can reschedule. Common failures are burned-out brake lights, non-functional wipers, or a horn that does not work. Check these items before you arrive.
Once you pass the vehicle inspection, you sit in the driver's seat, adjust the mirrors and seat, and the examiner tells you where to drive. The test begins when you pull out of the parking lot.
Scoring: critical errors versus point deductions
The examiner marks errors on a scoring sheet as you drive. There are two types of errors: critical errors and point deductions.
A critical error means you fail the test when ready. Critical errors include running a red light or stop sign, hitting a curb or object, making an unsafe lane change, failing to yield the right of way, driving the wrong way on a one-way street, or driving off the road. If you commit one critical error, the test stops and you fail.
A point deduction is a minor mistake that costs you points but does not end the test. Examples include rolling through a stop (slowing but not fully stopping), hesitating too long at a green light, not using your turn signal, speeding slightly, or braking too hard. You can accumulate up to 15 points in deductions and still pass. If you reach 16 points, you fail.
The examiner does not tell you your score during the drive. You receive your results at the end of the test — either a pass or a fail, and a sheet showing which errors were marked.
How to schedule your test and current wait times
Schedule your test online at dmv.ca.gov or by phone at 1-800-777-0133. You will need your permit number and a valid email address or phone number. You choose your preferred DMV office and see available dates and times.
Wait times vary widely by location. Some rural offices have openings within two to four weeks. Urban offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and Sacramento often have waits of two to four months. You can check real-time availability on the DMV website before you book — if your local office is full, you can try a nearby office or a different time of day.
You can cancel or reschedule your test up to 48 hours before your appointment without losing your fee. If you miss your appointment without canceling, you forfeit the fee and must pay again to reschedule.
What to expect during the 20-minute drive
The examiner will direct you turn by turn. They will ask you to demonstrate specific skills: making left and right turns, merging onto a highway or faster road, stopping at red lights and stop signs, parking (either parallel or in a lot), and driving in traffic. The route depends on the DMV office location and what the examiner chooses that day.
You are expected to follow all traffic laws, use your turn signals, check your mirrors, maintain a safe speed, and stay in your lane. The examiner is looking for smooth, confident driving and awareness of other vehicles and pedestrians. Nervousness is normal and does not count against you — mistakes and unsafe decisions do.
If you need to ask the examiner a question during the drive, ask. If you are unsure whether to turn left or right, ask for clarification. If you miss a turn, the examiner will direct you to the next opportunity to get back on route.
Retesting if you do not pass
If you fail, you receive a notice showing which errors caused the failure. You can reschedule and take the test again. There is no waiting period — you can book another appointment as soon as the next available slot at your DMV office.
Each test attempt costs the same fee (currently $35 for the behind-the-wheel test in California, though fees can change). You pay the fee each time you test. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but you must hold a valid permit and meet all other requirements each time.
Many people pass on their second or third attempt. Review the errors from your first test, practice those specific skills, and book your next appointment when you feel ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the test in a manual transmission car?
Yes. The DMV does not restrict the type of transmission. If you learned to drive in a manual car, you can test in one. If you test in an automatic, your license will have a restriction that limits you to automatic transmission vehicles.
What happens if I get into a minor accident during the test?
Any collision, even a minor one, is a critical error and you fail the test when ready. The examiner will document what happened and you will be responsible for any damage to the vehicle or property.
Do I have to take the test at the DMV office where I got my permit?
No. You can take the test at any California DMV office. Some people schedule at a less busy office even if it is farther away, to avoid longer wait times.
Can I retake the test the same day if I fail?
No. You must reschedule for a different day. Same-day retesting is not available at any California DMV office.
What if I am nervous and make mistakes I would not normally make?
Test anxiety is common. Practice driving with your permit holder before the test, especially on the types of roads you will encounter (city streets, highways, parking). Arriving early and taking a few deep breaths before the test begins can help. Remember that the examiner is not trying to trick you — they are watching for safe, legal driving.