Things You Need To Know About Getting Your Drivers License
In order to apply for your California Drivers License you must:
- Be at least 16 years old
- Have held your permit for 6 months (unless you are 18)
- Pay an application and testing fee of $25
- Have completed behind the wheel training
- Have completed at least 50 hours of drive time practice (10 of which must be at night) with an adult age 25 or older
- Pass a driving test
- Your license will be mailed to you no later than 60 days after you pass the driving test.
PLEASE NOTE: You have 3 chances to pass your driving test. If you fail, you must wait 2 weeks between each retake.
Before You Take The Driving Test.
The California Driving Test can be a frightening experience. But if you keep your head and remember a few basic necessities, you will be fine.
Just keep in mind the following:
Starting the Vehicle:
- Adjust mirrors
- Fasten safety belt
- Know where the operating controls are located
Starting the Vehicle:
- Adjust mirrors
- Fasten safety belt
- Know where the operating controls are located
Moving Forward:
- Signal
- Look in mirrors and over shoulder before pulling into traffic
- Use two hands - opposite sides of the steering wheel
Stopping:
- Stop behind crosswalk or limit line
- Stop without using accelerator at the same time
Turns:
- Slow for turns
- Begin and end turns in the correct lane
- Yield right-of-way when necessary
- Accepts legal right-of-way when safe
- See and react to hazards
Backing:
- Check mirrors and look over right shoulder
Changing Lanes:
- Signal
- Check mirrors
- Check over shoulder
- Change lanes safely
- Maintain Speed
Driving On the Freeway:
- Check traffic flow
- Time entry into freeway
- Check over shoulder before merging into traffic
- Signal early and reduce speed on exit ramp
- Adjust speed to road conditions
Defensive Driving Techniques:
- Check mirrors before braking
- Check cross streets before passing
- Check signal lights and signs
- Keep eyes "moving"
- Keep a "space cushion" around the car
- Follow at a safe distance
