License Requirements for a Minor's Provisional License
To obtain a Minor's Provisional License in California, you must meet the following requirements:
Age Requirement
Be at least 16 years old.
Driver Education and Training
Complete both Driver Education and Driver Training. You'll receive two certificates:
Classroom Driver Education (DL400B) or Online Driver Education (DL400C)
Driver Training (DL400D)
Instruction Permit
Hold a California instruction permit for at least 6 months.
Supervised Driving Practice
Complete 50 hours of supervised driving practice, including 10 hours of night driving. This must be confirmed by a parent or guardian.
Behind-the-Wheel Driving Test
Pass the driving test (you have 3 attempts). A $6 retest fee applies for the second or third attempts, with a 2-week waiting period if you fail.
Driving Privileges with a Provisional License
After obtaining your provisional license, you can drive alone with no violations. Restrictions for the first 12 months:
No driving between 11 PM and 5 AM.
No transporting passengers under 20 unless accompanied by a parent, guardian, or a licensed driver 25+.
Exceptions to Restrictions
Written exceptions may apply for medical, school, employment, or family needs, with appropriate signatures from the relevant authority (e.g., physician, school principal, employer, or guardian).
Emancipated minors are not required to provide this documentation, but must submit Proof of Financial Responsibility (SR 1P).
By meeting these requirements, you'll be eligible for your Minor's Provisional License.