California DMV permit appointments, office finder and official practice tests

For a first California Class C permit, start with the official permit requirements. Adults and applicants under 18 have different education and training requirements.

Complete the application before the office visit

Use DMV’s driver license/ID application. The application is available in English, Spanish and Chinese, among other languages. Save the confirmation number emailed to you: the office uses it to retrieve your application. Submitting an application does not reserve an appointment or issue a permit.

Open DMV appointments to arrange the service for your first license or permit. A behind-the-wheel test requires its own appointment, after you meet the permit and driving-test requirements. See the permit timeline.

Choose an office that provides your service

In the DMV office finder, enter a city or ZIP code, select Field Offices, and filter by Written Knowledge Test. Check the office details for hours, address and closure notices. Kiosks and business partners also appear in the directory; choose a location offering the actual service you need.

In-office knowledge tests must start before 4:30 p.m. DMV also does not administer knowledge tests within 30 minutes of closing. Arrive with time for document processing and vision screening before testing; check your selected office’s hours rather than assuming every office closes at the same time.

Prepare the packet and language assistance

Bring the application confirmation, identity and residency documents, payment and any corrective lenses. The office process includes document checks, a thumbprint scan, a photo and vision screening. Prepare the document checklist, including any required parent signatures and education certificates.

Request your knowledge-test language when arranging the visit. DMV provides interpreter services at no charge; ask staff or call 1-800-777-0133 during business hours to arrange an appointment when an interpreter is available. Interpreter assistance does not permit outside help answering test questions.

Use the handbook and official sample tests

• Handbook directory: choose the California Driver’s Handbook, including Chinese and Spanish PDF editions.
• Official sample knowledge tests: choose Regular driver (Class C license). There are four English, four Spanish and four Chinese samples; Chinese labels use Traditional Chinese.
• Additional testing materials: road-sign chart and translated driving-test words and phrases.

The official permit page gives an 80% passing score. Sample tests help you practice, but do not supply the complete exam. Study the handbook alongside CA Driver practice. During the official knowledge test, you may not use your phone, handbook or other testing aids.

The renewal eLearning course is for eligible noncommercial Class C renewals, not original-license applicants. See our language and testing-resource guide for that separate route.