Moving around town on foot might be convenient for some, but most people prefer driving around in cars or other vehicles to shorten the length of the time it’ll take to get from one point to another. However, in the state of California, it is impossible for you to drive around legally if you don’t have a driver’s license under your name, especially if you are a resident.
How to Apply for a Driver’s License in California
First and foremost, if you want to register a license under your name, you must contact and book an appointment with the Department of Motor Vehicles. This can be done online or by phone. Once you’ve booked an appointment, the next step is to fill out the application form for the driver’s license. You will also be required to present appropriate documentation that can serve as proof of your identity, residential status in California and citizenship.
After you pass a vision screening, you will be required to take a driving exam that makes a judgment about whether you’re skilled enough to be permitted to drive or not. This exam may also include a knowledge and road test if necessary. Lastly, you’ll be asked to pay a certain fee, after which you’ll obtain your license.
What is Included in the California Driver’s Test?
The whole point of the California driving license test is to determine the capability of each applicant as to whether or not they are able to operate the motor vehicle safely and without causing mayhem for the general public on the roads. Each applicant should be able to:
- Adhere to and follow the speed limits posted by the law
- Have sufficient knowledge regarding the use of operations of the vehicle, including indicators
- Accelerate, brake and steer the vehicle without any difficulty and as smoothly as possible
- Have a clear understanding of the traffic signs and signals
Furthermore, the test is conducted by a driving examiner, handpicked by the DMV. An inspection of the vehicle you choose to drive will be conducted by the driving examiner before the test starts. No other individual or pet is permitted to accompany you during the course of the test.
California Drivers Advocates is a team of administrative advocates that represents drivers in California when their license comes into question. You can learn more about them and their services to help California drivers here, or if you have received any type of notice from the dmv you can visit the resource website they have setup here.
