Permit

Here are some tips about getting and using your permit:

Getting your permit:

  • Your best resource for information is the DMV Handbook. It is on-line or you can pick one up at the DMV.
  • Don’t forget to take required documents. Some people show up to take their test without their birth certificate or the original pink certificate of completion for Driver Education.
  • Proof of California residency: Starting in July 2016, the DMV is requiring that you show proof of physical residency (no PO Box) when applying for a permit/drivers license. This can of course be difficult for minors. School documents are the best for this. The adult accommodating the minor can show drivers license/California id or utility bill. A complete list of approved proof of residency can be obtained from the DMV.
  • A minor must have the permission of a parent(s) or legal guardian to get a California drivers license. The person(s) legally responsible for a minor can have the DMV revoke the minors license.
  • It is not unusual for students to fail the permit test more than once. You need to study.
  • Review the California Drivers Handbook. Yes, it is dry and boring. However, it covers much of what is on the test. There are also some videos available on YouTube to help you study.
  • At the time of your permit test, pick up the DMV booklet Driving Test Criteria. It has great information about the road test and what you should be focusing on practicing.

Using your permit:

  • The most important thing to know is that you are not suppose to use your permit until you have had a first lesson with a DMV authorized driving school. The instructor should sign the second page of your permit in your first lesson and you will then be legal to use your permit for practicing.
  • You need to practice with someone who is a California licensed driver 25 or older.
  • You can practice 24/7, any type of driving situations, and with minors in the car as long as the person teaching you is okay with this.
  • You must always have the original permit with you if you are in the drivers seat. Not having your permit is the same as driving without a drivers license. You can receive a citation.
  • Some people drive either without a permit or without having their permit signed by an authorized school. This can have very serious repercussions for the student and their family. If the student causes an accident, their insurance company does not have to pay for damages. However, parents can be sued and may end up having to pay a lot of dollars for a long, long time. The student may also have their right to get a drivers license delayed.
  • This can be the same if a student is driving with a permit but without an appropriate adult in the passenger seat. I have had several students tell me they were doing secret drives to the store or to get fast food in the family car without their parents knowing. Please think twice before doing this. You can be jeopardizing your families financial well-being and your right to a drivers license for a long time for a momentary thrill.

Remember, the only way to learn how to drive is to drive!