California DMV exam simulator
The DMV doesn't publish how many questions its test has, but you need 80% to pass, so the simulator gives you 25 random questions from all 351 of ours with 20 correct to pass. You only see your answers at the end. Pass three in a row and you're ready for the real thing.
25 questions · 20 to pass
How the simulator works
- Every attempt draws a new random set of 25 questions from across the handbook.
- No feedback until you finish, as in the real test. Then you see your score and every question you missed, with the explanation and handbook reference.
- Your results stay in this browser. After three passes in a row you'll see "You're ready".
- The DMV doesn't publish a time limit for this test, so the clock just shows how long you've taken.
About the real California DMV test
Multiple-choice knowledge test taken during your DMV office visit. Each question has one correct answer and two other choices, and all questions come from the handbook. Testing aids such as the handbook or a cell phone are not allowed. In-office tests must be started before 4:30 p.m. and are not given within 30 minutes of closing. Renewal applicants may be offered a no-fail eLearning course instead.
- Languages: The handbook is published in several languages, including English, Spanish, Armenian, Chinese, Hindi, Punjabi, Russian and Vietnamese. DMV sample Class C tests are offered in English, Spanish, Armenian, Chinese, Farsi, Punjabi, Russian, Tagalog, Vietnamese and ASL. The renewal eLearning course is in English, Spanish and Traditional Chinese (with Mandarin audio). Ask the DMV which languages the knowledge test is offered in.
- Attempts: You get 3 attempts to pass per application fee (the application is valid 12 months). After that you must reapply.
- If you fail: Under 18: wait 7 days after a failed test, not counting the day you failed. The DMV lists no waiting period for applicants 18 and older.
- Fee: $46 Class C original application fee (nonrefundable). It covers the knowledge tests and 3 drive-test attempts and is valid 12 months.
On test day
- Bring the documents on the California what-to-bring list, and check you meet the minimum age (15½).
- You'll take a vision test first: You need 20/40 with both eyes together, and 20/40 in one eye and at least 20/70 in the other, with or without glasses or contacts (Snellen chart). If you fail, you are referred to an eye specialist to complete a Report of Vision Examination (DL 62). Applicants with acuity of 20/200 or worse may not be scheduled for a drive test. Passing with glasses or contacts adds a corrective lens restriction. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them.
- Read each question and every answer to the end before choosing; watch for words like "not" and "except".
- Review the hardest questions the night before: exact numbers are where most points are lost.
Questions
How many questions are on the California permit test?
The California DMV doesn't publish the number of questions. You need 80% correct to pass.
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in California?
15½. You then hold the permit for at least 6 months (or until age 18) before the drive test for applicants under 18 before the road test and 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 at night.
What happens if I fail the California permit test?
You can retake it: Under 18: wait 7 days after a failed test, not counting the day you failed. The DMV lists no waiting period for applicants 18 and older. You get 3 attempts to pass per application fee (the application is valid 12 months). After that you must reapply.
Can I take the California permit test in Spanish or another language?
The handbook is published in several languages, including English, Spanish, Armenian, Chinese, Hindi, Punjabi, Russian and Vietnamese. DMV sample Class C tests are offered in English, Spanish, Armenian, Chinese, Farsi, Punjabi, Russian, Tagalog, Vietnamese and ASL. The renewal eLearning course is in English, Spanish and Traditional Chinese (with Mandarin audio). Ask the DMV which languages the knowledge test is offered in.
What do I need to bring for the California permit test?
Completed Driver's License & ID Card Application (can be started online); Proof of identity; Two proofs of California residency (exceptions may apply; needed for REAL ID); A legal full name document if your name does not match your identity document; Social Security number (exceptions may apply); and more (see the full list).
What is the vision requirement in California?
You need 20/40 with both eyes together, and 20/40 in one eye and at least 20/70 in the other, with or without glasses or contacts (Snellen chart). If you fail, you are referred to an eye specialist to complete a Report of Vision Examination (DL 62). Applicants with acuity of 20/200 or worse may not be scheduled for a drive test. Passing with glasses or contacts adds a corrective lens restriction.
Test format from the California Department of Motor Vehicles: official test information.