California DMV Practice Tests

Pass your CA written test the first time with free, realistic questions and instant explanations.

Updated for 2025 One Question at a Time Instant Explanations

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Choose a test to begin. One‑question‑at‑a‑time with instant answers and explanations.

Mini Tests

Short, focused 12-question drills to boost your score fast.

DMV Study Guide

Getting your California driver’s license starts with the written knowledge test. Our practice tests are built to feel like the real thing—one question at a time, clear answer choices, and short explanations that help you learn fast. Use this guide to study smarter, then take a full test and a mini drill to lock it in.

What’s on the test:
The questions come from the official California Driver Handbook and focus on right-of-way rules, speed limits, lane changes, turns, parking on hills, work zones, sharing the road with bikes and pedestrians, signs and signals, and safe driving basics. Some questions check judgment and distance (following space, stopping space), and a few cover limits like phones, seat belts, and DUI rules.

How to study with our practice tests:
Start with one full 50-question test to see where you stand. Read the short explanation after every question—even when you pick the right answer—because that’s where small details stick. Next, take the Quick Test to tighten up weak spots. Then use the Mini Tests for short daily sessions so you keep improving without burning out.

Tips for a first-time permit:
Know the basics like stop-sign order, who goes first at a four-way stop, when to yield to pedestrians, school zone behavior, and when to use turn signals and headlights. Learn the shape and color of common signs so you can recognize them even if the words look different on test day. If you’re under 18, review teen permit rules like passenger and night-time limits in the handbook.

Test-day checklist:
Bring a legal ID and any forms the DMV asks for. Arrive a little early, stay calm, and read each question slowly. Eliminate wrong answers first and pick the safest, most law-correct choice. If the test format lets you, review any flagged questions at the end. Rules and procedures can change, so always check the latest details on the official California DMV website before you go.

Keep going:
If you miss a few questions on our practice tests, that’s normal. Retake the ones you missed until you can explain why the right answer is right. When you can score high on a full test and a mini drill back-to-back, you’re ready.

Pro Tips

  • Start with a full 50-question test, then take the Quick Test to reinforce weak spots.
  • Our questions follow the official California Driver Handbook. After each answer, read the short explanation even when you're correct. Small details (sign shapes, following distances, right-of-way order) decide your real test score.
  • Aim for 90% on practice to create a buffer for test-day nerves; retake missed questions until you can explain the correct answer.

FAQ – California Practice Tests

Q: Do these practice tests match the real California exam?
A: They're based on the California Driver Handbook and built to feel like the real test format, with one question at a time and short explanations.
Q: Are these tests free?
A: Yes everything here is completely free to use.
Q: Where can I find the official rules?
A: Always check the latest California Driver Handbook and DMV site for the most current laws and testing rules.