California DMV Practice Test
Free, full California practice tests right here in your browser — state-configured test length, diagnostic and adaptive modes, spaced-repetition review, and a readiness dashboard. No signup, no paywall — your progress is saved automatically on this device.
Official California handbook: California Driver's Handbook
Before the California knowledge test
These learner's permit requirements are separate from the written knowledge test score above. Use them to plan your application and supervised-driving timeline.
What to bring to the knowledge test:
- California Driver's License application (DL 44) with parent/guardian signature
- Proof of identity
- Proof of California residency
- Certificate of completion/enrollment in driver education
Requirements last verified 2026-07-13 · Source: California DMV — Instruction and Learner's Permits ↗. See the complete California permit requirements.
Sample California permit test questions
Orange-colored signs indicate:
- A. School zones
- B. Recreational areas
- C. Railroad crossings
- D. Construction zones
Show answer
D. Construction zones — Orange signs warn about construction or maintenance work zones. Slow down, watch for workers and equipment, and be ready for changing lane patterns.
Universal rule · checked against MUTCD 11th Edition, Part 2 — Signs (General) — Traffic Signs — General · verified 2026-08-01
Work zones usually require you to:
- A. Maintain normal speed
- B. Reduce speed significantly
- C. Change lanes frequently
- D. Use hazard lights
Show answer
B. Reduce speed significantly — Work zones have reduced speed limits for the safety of workers. Fines are often doubled in these zones.
Source: California Driver's Handbook — Section 7: Laws and Rules of the Road - Speed Limits · verified 2026-05-17
When approaching a railroad crossing with flashing red lights:
- A. Slow down and proceed with caution
- B. Honk your horn and proceed
- C. Stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail
- D. Speed up to cross quickly
Show answer
C. Stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail — You must stop at least 15 feet from the nearest rail when signals indicate a train is approaching.
Source: California Driver's Handbook — Section 7: Laws and Rules of the Road - Railroad Crossings · verified 2026-05-17
When driving through a school zone while children are present:
- A. Slow to the posted school zone speed
- B. Use your hazard lights
- C. Sound your horn frequently
- D. Maintain your normal speed
Show answer
A. Slow to the posted school zone speed — Reduce speed to the posted school zone speed limit when children are present or signs are flashing.
Source: California Driver's Handbook — Section 7: Laws and Rules of the Road - School Zones and School Buses · verified 2026-05-17
Which of the following can impair your driving?
- A. Alcohol and illegal drugs
- B. Fatigue and prescription medicine
- C. Alcohol and fatigue
- D. Alcohol, other drugs, and fatigue
Show answer
D. Alcohol, other drugs, and fatigue — Alcohol, drugs (including prescription and over-the-counter), and fatigue can all seriously impair your driving ability.
Source: California Driver's Handbook — Section 5: An Introduction to Driving - Health, Fatigue, Medications, and Alertness · verified 2026-05-17
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are in this California DMV practice test?
This practice test uses 46 questions and a 80% study target — at least 37 correct answers. Confirm the current official exam format with the state licensing agency.
What score should I target for the California written test?
Use 80% as the practice target on this site. The readiness dashboard tracks consistent performance; the state agency remains the source for current official requirements.
Is this California practice test really free?
Yes. Every practice test on this page and everything in the DMV Prep app is free — no ads, no paywall, no account.
Where do these California practice questions come from?
Questions use California Driver's Handbook and other handbook or regulatory references, and are not copied from live exams. Citation scope and recency are being revalidated across the bank.
Can I study for the California permit test in Spanish?
Yes — try the California practice test in Spanish. The DMV Prep app includes all 3,470+ questions in Spanish.
