Step 1: Pass driver's education and get your certificate

  • If you are younger than 17 and 1/2 years old, you need to pass a DMV-approved driver's education course.
  • If you are older than 17 and 1/2 you do not need to take driver's education, but it is highly recommended.
  • You can only get a permit if you're at least 15 and 1/2 years old.
  • Once you successfully pass the course, you should receive a certificate of completion. Don't lose it!

Step 2: Submit your application, bring ID, and pay fee

  • Complete Form DL-44. You can't download or print it online; they're only available at DMV offices. Follow the directions on the form exactly.
  • Consider making an appointment with the DMV to reduce the amount of time spent in line.
  • You will need to pay a fee of $33 dollars.
  • You need to bring your birth certificate or other valid proof of legal U.S. citizen or resident status. Find out more on what to take with you »

Step 3: Take the written test and get your provisional permit

  • You can usually take the written test during the same visit where you submit your application.
  • You must get at least 38 questions right out of 46. The questions are multiple choice. Practice tests »
  • You will have 3 chances to take the test, but if you fail a test you must wait 7 days before taking the test again. If you fail the test all 3 times, you must start over by filling out a new Form DL 44 and paying again.
  • You also need to pass a vision test, and your photo and fingerprint will be taken.

Step 4: Get enough behind-the-wheel training hours

Important: The provisional permit is not valid until it is signed by a professional instructor and your parent/guardian signs it. It's illegal to drive with an invalid permit.
  • You need at least 50 hours (at least 10 at night) with any adult with a license over 25 years old. Your parent/guardian will have to sign your permit verifying this.
  • You also need at least 6 hours of additional driving practice with a licensed and certified professional driving instructor.
  • With your prermit, you must drive with a sober and licensed driver who is at least 25 years old who can take control of the car in an emergency. Certain exemptions from these restrictions exist. Learn more »

Step 5: Take the driving test and get your provisional license

Important: Once you pass the driving test and get your provisional license, restrictions will apply until you turn 18 years old or have held your provisional license for 1 year. Read more about the restrictions in Step 6.
  • You need to hold your permit for six months and get enough behind-the-wheel training hours before you can take the driving test.
  • You must be at least 16 years or older before you can take the driving test.
  • You must make an appointment at the DMV to take the driving test.
  • If you fail, you will need to pay a retest fee each time and you must wait 2 weeks before testing again.
  • You need to bring your parent, provisional permit, and proof of insurance for the car you will be taking the test in.

Step 6: Get your unrestricted driver's license

  • With a provisional license, you can drive by yourself, but you can't drive between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
  • You also can't have any passengers under 20 years old in your car, unless you're with a licensed driver over 25 years old.
  • ​Once you turn 18 years old or have held your provisional license for 1 year (whichever comes first), these restrictions will no longer apply to you.
  • You don't need to get a new license once your provisional period ends. Your provisional license contains the date where it turns into a regular license.