Before you take the exam, you are required to show that your vehicle is properly insured.
| To Show Financial Responsibility: |
|---|
| A document with a liability insurance policy or surety bond number. |
| An assigned risk insurance card with the name of the assigned insurance company, file number, and current coverage dates. |
| A current insurance binder or copy of an insurance policy signed or countersigned by an insurance company representative. |
| A DMV-issued certificate of self-insurance or acknowledgment of cash deposit. |
| A written confirmation from the insurer that the person is insured. |
| A rental vehicle contract (the applicant must be listed on the contract as an insured driver). |
The DMV's official list!
Also, make sure your vehicle fits the DMV’s testing requirements.
| To fulfill the standards, you must: |
|---|
| 2 license plates. The rear plate must show the current registration. |
| Functioning front and back turn signals and brake lights. |
| A working horn designed for the vehicle. |
| Tires with no bald spots. |
| Adequate brake pressure (you will be asked to step on the brake pedal to show it works properly). |
| A driver’s side window that rolls down. |
| A windshield that allows a full unobstructed field of view for you and the examiner. |
| 2 rearview mirrors. One must be on the left, outside of the vehicle. |
| Driver and front passenger doors that open from both the inside and outside. |
| A glove box that is securely closed. |
| A passenger seat permanently attached to the vehicle. |
| Working emergency/parking brake. |
| Working safety belts (if the vehicle was manufactured with safety belts). |
The DMV's official list!
Now you are ready to take your driving exam! Sometimes, when you are taking exams, it can be stressful. These emotions can affect your driving performance. Whenever I am anxious, understanding the process helps me. When you take the behind-the-wheel exam, you are scored using this sheet:
When I understand the process, I can calm my nerves by feeling ready. To prepare for my exam, I will be using the CA drivers handbook and reviewing the DMV’s safe driver checklist. Also, I found videos showing students what to expect on their driving test and important tips for passing the exam.
When you pass the test, you will be issued a temporary license. The temporary license is valid for 60 days. You will receive your official driver's license within 3-4 weeks of passing the exam.
If you don’t pass, that is perfectly fine! Fourteen days after your test (excluding the date you attempted the previous exam), you are eligible for a retake. Remember, you should schedule an appointment to take any of the exams! On your second attempt, you will be charged a $7 fee.