Can teens drive in California with underage passengers? Drive at night? What to know
California teens can begin driving with a learner’s permit at age 15-and-a-half.
Rules and restrictions on how and when minors can get behind the wheel
Drivers under the age of 18 in California have a provisional driver’s license, according to the California Department of Motor Vehicles. Minors with provisional licenses cannot:
- Drive between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. in the first 12 months of having a license
- Drive with passengers under the age of 20, unless accompanied by a parent, guardian or other California-licensed driver over the age of 25
- Drive for money
- Drive vehicles that require a commercial Class A, B, or C license
Exceptions to these rules
- If a minor has a medical need and cannot reasonably find another way to travel. Drivers in this situation must carry a note signed by their physician with their medical condition and expected recovery date.
- If a minor must drive to get to school or a school activity. Drivers in this situation must carry a note signed by their school principal.
- If a minor must drive for work reasons. Drivers in this situation must carry a note signed by their employer.
- If a minor must drive an immediate family member. Drivers in this situation must carry a note signed by their parent or legal guardian stating the reason they need to drive, the family member and the date when the need will end.
The first step for minors looking to get a driver’s license is applying for a learner’s permit, according to the DMV.
In California, you can obtain a learner’s permit at the age of 15-and-a-half. You must have completed a driver’s education course and a parent or guardian must sign the application. Minors must also pass a written test on traffic laws and safety issued by the DMV. A passing score is 80%, and three attempts are allowed before a reapplication is required.
While a minor has their learner’s permit, they must complete 50 hours of behind-the-wheel training, including at least 10 hours at night, supervised by a licensed adult who is at least 25 years old. Minors must also must complete six hours of instruction from a licensed driving school.
After six months, minors can take a behind-the-wheel driving test to obtain their provisional driver’s license. Three attempts are allowed before a reapplication is required.
This story was originally published May 20, 2026 at 12:55 PM with the headline "Can teens drive in California with underage passengers? Drive at night? What to know."
