Getting a driver's license in California is an exciting time for teens and potentially stressful time for parents. To earn a San Francisco driver's license, applicants need to prove they're confident, knowledgeable of regulations, and have good behavior while behind the wheel. Heres's what you need to know about getting a driver's license in San Francisco.
First Step: Acquire a Learner's Permit
The magic age for Californians to get a learners permit is 15 years and six months old. Every applicant under the age of 17 is required to take a driver's education course approved by the DMV. After doing the classroom work, students need to pass a final exam that covers the information found in the California Drivers Handbook. Another great resource for preparing for exams is the online course from Aceable.
Second Step: Go to the DMV
Before heading over to one of the DMV locations in San Francisco to take the test, make sure you have the following items with you:
Birth certificate
Social Security card
Proof of California residency
A certificate of completion from a DMV-approved driver's education course
Form DL 44 signed by the parent or legal guardian of the applicant
An application fee
With all of the items above, you'll have a learner's permit, which means you get to start practicing for the driving test.
Third Step: Prepare for Driving Test
Drivers under the age of 16 need to clock in 50 hours of driving. Ten of those 50 hours need to take place at night. They also need to have their learner's permit for a minimum of six months. During this practice time, the driver needs to have a qualified instructor or legal guardian over the age of 25 accompany them in the passenger seat. Once those 50 hours of driving and six months with the learner's permit are up, they can take the driving test and apply for a provisional license.
Fourth Step: The Driving Test
Once again, applicants must go to a San Francisco DMV location and bring the necessary documents we covered in the second step along with proof of insurance for the vehicle that will be used for the test. Once drivers pass, their provisional license will be mailed to them. They'll receive a temporary license that expires after 90 days. There are a few restrictions during the first 12 months of having the provisional license:
No driving between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
No passengers under the age of 20 in the car without the supervision of a licensed driver over the age of 25
Enjoy Your New San Francisco Driver's License
Once a driver turns 18 years old, they will be upgraded to a full California driver's license. If you're ready to start the process, the first step is taking driver's ed. San Francisco residents will love our online course, as they can take the class in the comfort of their own home.