California DMV Permit/Retake rules

California DMV Permit Retake Rules & Failure Policies (2026)

Retest rules from California DMV / Driver Services.

7 days if you are under 18, not counting the day you failed; none published for adults
Mandatory Waiting Period
3 attempts per application
Attempt Limits
After 3 failures you reapply and pay the application fee again
Retest Fee
Source: California Driver's Handbook, Section 3, checked September 30, 2026.
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Retake Policy — California DMV / Driver Services

  1. Waiting period: 7 days if you are under 18, not counting the day you failed; none published for adults
  2. Attempt limits: 3 attempts per application
  3. Retest cost: After 3 failures you reapply and pay the application fee again

Comparing California DMV Permit

  • Its 83% pass mark sits between 2 stricter and 32 more lenient states.
  • California is one of 26 states whose agency publishes a mandatory waiting period.
  • The California DMV publishes attempt limits, as do 17 other states.
  • A retest fee is published in 13 states, California included.

Related Retake Rules

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Frequently Asked Questions About California DMV Permit Retakes

7 days if you are under 18, not counting the day you failed; none published for adults

3 attempts per application

After 3 failures you reapply and pay the application fee again