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License Requirements for a Minor's Provisional License

To obtain a Minor's Provisional License in California, you must meet the following requirements:
  1. Age Requirement
  • Be at least 16 years old.
  1. 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)
  1. Instruction Permit
  • Hold a California instruction permit for at least 6 months.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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+.
  1. 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.