What to Bring to Your California Driving Test: The Test-Day Checklist

The DMV says you must bring four things to a California behind-the-wheel test. Here’s each one, and what the examiner checks.

The DMV’s list

The Driver’s Handbook, Section 3 says to bring:

1. Your instruction permit (or your license, if you have one).
2. A California-licensed driver aged 18+, or 25+ if you’re under 18. Not needed if you’re already licensed.
3. A car that is safe to drive.
4. The car’s registration and valid proof of insurance.

You also need a confirmed drive test appointment (DMV).

1. Your permit

Bring the permit itself. Under 18? You must have held it for at least six months (DMV).

Took your vision test in glasses or contacts? Wear them for the drive too.

Licensed in another country? You still need an accompanying driver (DMV).

2. A licensed driver

They need a California license and must be 18+, or 25+ if you’re under 18.

They don’t ride along. Only the examiner goes on the drive, with a few exceptions such as service animals. Your driver comes with you to and from the test.

3. A car that passes the pre-drive check

Before you drive, the examiner checks the car. It needs:

• a driver’s window that opens
• a clear windshield (cracks may postpone your test)
• at least two rearview mirrors, one on the left
• working brake lights
• tires with at least 1/32 inch of tread, and no donut spare
• a foot brake with at least an inch of clearance when pressed
• a working horn, wipers and seat belts

You’ll also set and release the parking brake and show your turn and arm signals.

If the car doesn’t pass, your test is rescheduled. Full list: the DMV’s Pre-Drive Checklist, or our car requirements guide.

Self-parking, lane departure and adaptive cruise control can’t be used. A backup camera is fine, but still look over your shoulder.

4. Registration and proof of insurance

The examiner checks both before the drive. The insurance card must show the insurer’s name and address, the coverage dates and the policy number (DMV). Check the dates the night before.

Other rules

• No recording during the test. Block a dashcam that can’t be turned off.
• An interpreter can help with the pre-drive check, not the drive.
• Arrive early enough to park and check in without rushing.

No car or driver?

We bring items 2, 3 and 4: a test-ready automatic car with its registration and proof of insurance, and a licensed California driver who meets you at your DMV office. You bring your permit. See the 19 offices we serve in the Bay Area and Sacramento.

Once your appointment is confirmed, book a test car. Pricing shows Test Only and Test + Boost, which adds a warm-up drive near your DMV.