Provisional Period

Congratulations on earning your driver's license! After you pass all the exams, and you are under 18, you are the owner of a provisional license. For exactly one year after you pass your behind-the-wheel exam, you must abide by certain driving restrictions. You cannot drive between 11 pm and 5 am. You cannot drive someone under 20 years of age unless a guardian, driving instructor, or licensed driver at least 25 years of age is in the vehicle.

If necessary, there are exceptions to this probation period. If you have a medical necessity, school-authorized activities, employment necessity, or an immediate need of a family member the DMV will make an exception. Here are the different methods to qualify for the exception:

	Category	Qualifications
1	Medical Necessity	You need a note signed by your physician. Must include your date of recovery.
2	School or School-Authorized Activities	Requires a note signed by your school principal, dean, or designee. Must include a reason for the school or school-authorized activity. Must have a probable date when the activity will end.
3	Employment Necessity	You need a note signed by your employer. It must verify employment. Needs to include the probable date your employment will end.
4	Immediate Need of Family Member	You need a note signed by your parent or guardian. The note must include a reason for the exception. Must include the probable date the necessity will end

The DMV's official Guide!

Breaking one of the provisional licensing rules can result in points being added to your driving record. If you have a violation point count of two or more within 12 months, you will receive a 30-day restriction. If you have three or more points within 12 months, you will receive a 6-month suspension and 1 year probation. Be a safe driver! If you would like to know more about the California DMV point system, check out their safety guidelines resource.

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