How to get your license as a minor

I remember noticing people around me starting to get their permits and such and I was curious to see how long and hard the process really is. Many teens aren't sure about the process of getting their license and for many, it seems like a difficult process. If you are 15½ you can apply for your permit and start the process.

As a minor, you have to follow different steps on getting your license because of all the risks and responsibilities that come with driving. Today we will talk about the steps, and requirements as well as the right paperwork you will need.

Once you're 15 ½ you are able to start your driver's license process. First, you will need to apply for a permit, you are eligible at 15 ½ and meet certain requirements. After your permit and some time you can take your license. Even with your license as a minor, you will need to follow guidelines.

Getting your permit: Before getting your permit you must show you completed Driver training or Driver education or are enrolled, then you must complete a California Driver License application. You also must have both parents' signatures on the application form. After you have your application ready, gather your documents, visit a DMV office and provide your information, your Social Security numbers, and your birth certificate. You will then need to provide a thumbprint and are asked to sign. Then you will need to pass a vision exam and a knowledge exam. The knowledge exam must be completed and you must get a 38 out of 46 to pass. You have 3 chances and if you fail all 3 you also must wait 7 days until you can apply again. Once you have your permit you must wait 6 months before you can apply for your drivers' license unless you are 17½.

Getting your license: Before you take your test you must take Drivers ed classes. You must be 16 and should have your permit for at least 6 months. You also have to show you completed 6 hours of professional driver training and 50 hours of practice with an adult 25 years or older with a driver's license. 10 of those hours should be practiced at night. Once you have shown these things you will have 3 chances to pass your test. If you fail after the 3rd try you must wait 2 weeks before being able to re-apply. You will have to pay a retest fee for the second or third time.

Provisions: Having a license at 16 comes with restrictions because you are still a minor and statistics show youth have higher crash incidents reported. These are the following restrictions; You can't drive between 11 pm and 5 am. You also can't drive with anyone under the age of 25 unless they have a driver's license. If you are caught by law enforcement you will receive a strike, if you receive 2 strikes within a year your license will be suspended for 30 days. If you receive 3 your license can be suspended for 6 months and on probation for a year. The law states these provisions can be dropped after 12 months of receiving your license or when you turn 18.

Reviewing this process carefully can help you make a plan and organize yourself and your next steps. I hope this was helpful.