What to Bring to Your California DMV Road Test

The California DMV road test is a major step toward earning your license—and showing you're ready for the responsibility that comes with it. Whether you're feeling confident or nervous, one thing's for sure: being fully prepared with the right documents, a test-ready vehicle, and a clear plan makes a big difference.

This guide walks you through everything you need to bring, check, and know before your road test. Let's make sure you arrive at the DMV ready to pass—without any last-minute stress.

Required Documents for the California Road Test

Before you even get in the car, you'll need to show the DMV a few key items. Here's what to bring:

• Original California Instruction Permit

  • Must be valid and not expired

  • If you're under 18, you must have held it for at least 6 months

• DL 44 / eDL 44 Application Confirmation

  • If completed online, bring the confirmation code

  • If you're a minor, the second page must be signed by a parent or guardian

• Certificates of Completion for Drivers Ed and Behind-the-Wheel Training

  • DL 400B or C (Driver Education)

  • DL 400D (Behind-the-Wheel Training)

  • These are provided by your driving school, such as DriversEd.comDriversEd.comDriversEd.com

Make sure you understand how to submit your California drivers ed certificateTrending Submitting Your California Drivers Ed Certificate Step Step Guide Driversed.com before test day—it's a common point of confusion.

Vehicle Requirements for the Road Test

You'll be tested in your own vehicle, so it needs to meet DMV standards. Here's what you'll need:

• Current Vehicle Registration

  • Keep the original card in the vehicle—usually in the glove compartment

• Proof of Insurance

  • Valid card, binder, or digital proof

  • Name must match the vehicle registration

  • Tip: Take a screenshot of your digital proof in case of poor cell signal at the DMV

Pre-Drive Inspection: What the Examiner Will Check

Your examiner will check these items before your test even begins:

• Brakes (foot and parking)

• Horn

• Turn signals (front and back)

• Tire tread—no bald spots

• Windshield—clean and crack-free

• Working doors and windows

• Driver-side window must roll down

Knowing how the California driving test is scoredTrending How California Driving Test Scored Driversed.com—and how seriously the pre-drive check is taken—helps you avoid preventable disqualifications.

Who Needs to Come With You?

If you're under 18, you must be accompanied by a licensed adult driver who meets the following:

• At least 25 years old

• Has a valid, unexpired California driver's license

This can be a parent, guardian, or any responsible adult. Understanding California permit supervision rulesTrending Drive To School California Permit Driversed.com helps avoid DMV surprises.

DMV Day Checklist

The Night Before:

• Gather all documents in a labeled folder

• Double-check the vehicle's condition

• Get a good night's sleep and review test tips if needed

The Morning Of:

• Arrive 15–20 minutes early

• Leave pets and distractions at home

• Turn off and stow your phone

What NOT to Bring

Leave these at home to help keep your test focused and distraction-free:

• Extra electronics

• Food or drinks

• Pets or siblings not involved in the test

Even If You're Feeling Nervous…

• Even if you're unsure you remembered everything: This checklist has you covered.

• Even if you feel anxious: That's normal. A calm, focused mindset can help.

• Even if your morning felt rushed: If you've got the paperwork and a ready vehicle, you're good to go.

• Even if your car isn't spotless: Safety and function matter more than appearance.

Understanding how strict the California DMV road test isTrending How Strict California Dmv Road Test Driversed.com can help you see that it's about being prepared—not being perfect.

FAQs: California DMV Road Test

What's the minimum age for a driving test in California? You must be at least 16 years old and have held your permit for at least 6 months if you're under 18.

Can I use any car for the test? Yes, as long as it's properly registered, insured, and passes the safety inspection.

Does someone have to stay at the DMV with me? If you're under 18, your accompanying driver must remain on-site throughout the exam.

For a full breakdown of the licensing process, see our guide to getting your license after completing drivers edTrending Taken Drivers Ed Classes How Do I Get License Driversed.com.

What Comes After the Test?

Passing your road test is just the beginning. At DriversEd.comDriversEd.comDriversEd.com, we support you beyond the test with driving tips, defensive driving resources, and state-approved training.

Learn how online drivers ed worksTrending How Do Online Drivers Ed Classes Work Driversed.com and explore the fastest way to get a California drivers licenseTrending Fastest Way To Get California Drivers License Driversed.com to keep improving your skills and staying safe on the road.