California DMV road test: what to expect

What the examiner checks

• Pre-drive check: driver window, windshield, rearview mirrors, turn signals, brake lights, tires, foot brake, horn, emergency/parking brake, arm signals (left, right, slow/stop), windshield wipers, defroster, emergency flashers, headlights, passenger door, glove box, seat belts
• Parking lot driving
• Straight-line backing (about three vehicle lengths, within three feet of the curb)
• Left and right turns
• Stops at controlled and uncontrolled intersections
• Lane changes
• Business/urban and residential/rural driving
• Freeway or highway driving (entering, merging, exiting) if required

How it's scored

The examiner uses the DL 32 DPE score sheet. To pass you must have no more than 3 errors on pre-drive checklist items 9-14, no Critical Driving Errors, and no more than 15 errors on the scoring maneuvers.

Mistakes that end the test

• Any Critical Driving Error on the DL 32 score sheet, including: intervention by the examiner
• Striking an object or curb
• Disobeying a traffic sign or signal
• Disobeying safety personnel or safety vehicles
• Dangerous maneuver
• Speed (critical speed error)
• Auxiliary equipment use
• Lane violation
• More than 15 maneuver errors, or more than 3 errors on pre-drive items 9-14

Your car

• Driver-side window must open
• Windshield must give a full, clear, unblocked view (cracks may postpone the test)
• At least two rearview mirrors, one on the left side
• Right and left brake lights working; front and back turn signals working
• Tires with at least 1/32-inch uniform tread depth; no donut spare
• At least one inch of clearance between the pressed brake pedal and the floorboard
• Horn designed for the vehicle and audible from at least 200 feet
• Working emergency/parking brake
• Working seat belts, which must be worn
• Two license plates, with the rear plate showing current registration; driver and front passenger doors open from inside and outside; glove box closes securely; passenger seat permanently attached
• Valid proof of insurance and registration

After you pass

Drivers under 18 get a provisional or junior license first. Its restrictions:

• First 12 months: no driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
• First 12 months: no passengers under 20 unless accompanied by a parent/guardian, a California-licensed driver 25 or older, or a certified driving instructor.
• No driving for pay and no driving vehicles that require a commercial Class A, B or C license.
• Drivers under 18 may not use a cell phone or wireless device while driving, even hands-free, except to call for emergency help.
• Exceptions (with a signed note): medical need (physician), school/school activity (principal, dean or designee), employment (employer), immediate family member need (parent/guardian); emancipated minors need no note.
• Sanctions: 1 at-fault collision or conviction = possible action; 2 within 12 months = 30-day restriction (must be accompanied by a licensed adult 25+); 3 = 6-month suspension and 1-year probation.
• Turning 18 does not end existing restrictions, suspensions or probation.
• A parent or guardian may cancel the teen's license.

How to prepare

• Practise in the car you'll take the test in, including parking and backing up.
• Drive the kinds of roads near the test site with your supervising driver: intersections, lane changes, school zones.
• Check the car the day before: lights, signals, horn, brakes, mirrors, tires, seat belts, and current registration and insurance documents.
• On the day, signal every turn and lane change, check mirrors and blind spots visibly, and come to full stops behind the line.