There are three different kinds of licenses for teens in California: learner’s permits, provisional licenses, and driver’s licenses. For information on how to apply, click here.
Here is basic information about each one.
| Learner’s Permit | Provisional License | Driver’s License | |
| What age can you first apply? |
15 1/2 years old |
16 years old |
18 years old |
| Requirements to apply |
Need to take driver’s education class and pass a written test |
Need to take a driver’s education class and pass a written test |
Do not need to take a class.Do need to pass a written driver’s test |
| Driving Rules |
When you have a learner’s permit, you can only drive if you have another licensed driver at least 25 years old in the car supervising you.You cannot have anyone else in the car except the supervising adult. |
You do not need to have a supervising driver.You cannot drive any passengers under 20 years old unless you have another licensed driver at least 25 years old in the car.There are some exceptions that let you drive family. |
You can drive with anyone you want once you have a license. |