California Driving Test Fees

The California Department of Motor Vehicles charges $35 for a Class C driving test (the standard license for most drivers). This fee covers the behind-the-wheel examination only and does not include the written test, which has a separate cost. You pay the fee when you schedule your test appointment or at the DMV office on the day of your test, depending on how you book.

If you fail and need to retake the driving test, you pay the $35 fee again for each attempt. There is no discount for retests, and you must wait at least two weeks before scheduling another appointment after a failure. Some DMV offices allow you to book your retest when ready after failing, while others require you to return on a different day.

Key Takeaways

  • The California driving test costs $35 per attempt, paid when you schedule or on test day.
  • You must pay the full $35 fee again if you fail and retake the test; there are no refunds or discounts for retests.
  • The written knowledge test has a separate $15 fee and must be passed before you can schedule the driving test.
  • Appointment availability varies by location, and some DMV offices have longer wait times than others.
  • You can schedule your test online through the California DMV website or by phone at 1-800-777-0133.

What the $35 Fee Covers

The $35 driving test fee covers the examiner's time, the use of the DMV test route, and the scoring of your performance. The examiner will evaluate your ability to start the vehicle, control steering, brake smoothly, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. The test typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes and includes both city and highway driving, depending on which DMV office administers it.

The fee does not cover the use of a vehicle. You must bring your own car, a friend's car, or rent one for the test. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition—the examiner will check the brakes, lights, horn, and windshield wipers before the test begins. If the vehicle fails this safety check, you cannot take the test that day and will need to reschedule.

Written Test Cost and Timing

Before you can take the driving test, you must pass the written knowledge test, which costs $15. You can take the written test at any DMV office without an appointment, though wait times vary. The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices and takes about 20 minutes to complete.

You do not have to pass the written test and driving test on the same day. Many people pass the written test weeks or months before scheduling the driving test, which gives them time to practice. However, your written test score is valid for only 12 months, so you must schedule and pass the driving test within that window or retake the written test.

How to Schedule and Pay for Your Test

You can schedule your driving test online at dmv.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-777-0133. When you book online, you will see available appointment dates and times at DMV offices near you. You pay the $35 fee at the time of booking if you use the online system, and the DMV will send you a confirmation email with your appointment details.

If you call to schedule, a DMV representative will help you find an available time slot and explain payment options. Some offices accept payment over the phone by debit or credit card, while others require you to pay in person on test day. Ask which method your local office uses when you call. Bring your confirmation number or appointment confirmation to the DMV on the day of your test.

Retesting Fees and Waiting Periods

If you do not pass the driving test, you must wait at least two weeks before you can retake it. The two-week waiting period is set by California law and cannot be waived. You will pay the full $35 fee again when you schedule your retest—there are no reduced rates for second or third attempts.

After three failed attempts, you must retake the written knowledge test before scheduling another driving test. This means you will pay $15 for the written test plus $35 for the driving test. Keep track of how many times you have taken the driving test so you know whether you need to retake the written test as well.

Payment Methods at the DMV

The California DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at all offices. If you pay online when scheduling, you can use Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover. If you pay in person on test day, the office will accept the same card types plus cash. Some offices may have ATMs on-site if you need to withdraw cash, but do not assume this—bring a card as a backup.

The DMV does not accept checks or money orders for driving test fees. If you are paying by phone when scheduling, have your card information ready. Keep your receipt or confirmation number as proof of payment in case there is a question about whether your fee was processed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund if I cancel my driving test appointment?

The California DMV does not refund driving test fees. If you need to cancel, you can reschedule your appointment for a different date at no additional cost, as long as you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled time. If you cancel within 24 hours or miss your appointment, you forfeit the $35 fee.

Do I have to pay the $35 fee if I bring my own car versus a rental?

No, the test fee is the same regardless of what vehicle you use. The $35 covers the test itself, not the vehicle. However, the vehicle must pass a safety inspection before the test begins, so make sure brakes, lights, horn, and wipers work properly.

What if I fail the written test—do I have to pay $15 again to retake it?

Yes, you pay $15 each time you take the written test. There is no waiting period between written test attempts, so you can retake it the same day or come back another day. You must pass the written test before scheduling a driving test.

Are there any discounts for seniors or people with disabilities?

The California DMV does not offer discounts on driving test fees based on age or disability status. However, you may request accommodations during the test, such as an interpreter or extra time, at no additional cost. Contact your local DMV office in advance to arrange accommodations.

Can I pay the driving test fee online if I schedule by phone?

It depends on your DMV office. Some offices allow phone payment by card, while others require you to pay in person on test day. When you call 1-800-777-0133 to schedule, ask which payment method your office accepts.