California Permit Test Coach
Licenses and permitsQuestion 6 of 229

How long must a minor hold an instruction permit before the drive test?

  1. At least 6 months
  2. At least 12 months
  3. At least 3 months
  4. At least 30 days
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Correct answer: At least 3 months

A minor needs the permit for at least 6 months, or must turn 18, before the test.

Source: California Driver's Handbook (DL 600, California DMV, 2025), Section 2. Getting an Instruction Permit and Driver’s License: Applying For A Driver’s License, page 3

Practice licenses and permits

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026