Steps to Getting Your License in California
Use this guide to make sure you are in the right place in your licensing journey.
Pass Drivers Ed Course
If you are between 15 and 17½ years old, you must pass a state-approved Drivers Ed course and receive your completion certificate before taking your written test at the DMV.
Practice for Written Test
Once you have your completion certificate, it is time to practice! Take our practice test questions to ace your exam on the first try!
Pass Written Test at DMV
Ready to go? Make a reservation at the DMV and go pass your test! Once you pass, you will receive your permit.
Take Driving Lessons
Book now to get the times you want. You'll need your permit at every lesson.
Pass your Road Test
After completing your driving lessons, you can take your road test. Make a reservation at the DMV and go pass your test to receive your license.
California Driving Lessons
Whether it's your first time behind the wheel or you need a brush up before your test, we offer driving education in California that will make you a safer, more confident driver for life.
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We go above and beyond expectations to provide a safe learning experience.
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Driving Lessons Customized for You
Every lesson is custom-made to help you succeed.
DMV-Certified Driving Lessons for Teens
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Two-Hour Lessons
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Post-Lesson Report Included
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Drivers Ed in California
Explore our drivers ed courses in your state.
California Drivers Ed Online
Earn your DMV Certificate
Course approved by the California DMV
Unlimited practice tests
Video, images and text
Fast and convenient
Friendly customer support
California Traffic School
Receive your Certificate of Completion
Proof of completion sent automatically
Approved by the California DMV
Accepted by all California courts
Video, images, and text
Fast and convenient
Friendly customer support
California Parent Taught Online
Supplemental Learning for Parents
Review the Rules of the Road
Frequently Asked Questions
We're here to help! See the questions below or reach out to us at any time.
How many driving lessons do I need before the road test?
California requires minors to complete six total hours of professional behind-the-wheel instruction, which is three two-hour lessons. There is no minimum requirement for new drivers over the age of 18. To build the skills to be a safe and confident driver, we recommend the five-lesson package which give you 10 hours behind the wheel.
What should I bring to my first behind-the-wheel driving lesson?
Bring a positive attitude and a willingness to learn. You'll also need to bring your permit and sneakers or other appropriate driving footwear (not flip flops please). We provide the car, a certified instructor, and insurance.
Why does a Coastline instructor need to sign my teen's permit?
If your new driver is under 17 1/2, they can't drive with you until they take their first professional driving lesson. The provisional instruction permit is not valid for supervised practice until the licensed driving instructor validates the permit. A Coastline instructor does this at the student's first lesson. After that, the teen may practice with a qualified supervising adult. Bring the physical permit to every behind-the-wheel lesson because the instructor must verify it before driving.
What happens when the six hours of driving lessons are done?
After you complete the required six hours of professional behind-the-wheel instruction, your Coastline instructor will issue a "golden ticket", which is an official DMV certificate. You should keep that certificate with your instruction permit and bring it to the DMV for your driving test. If part of the six-hour requirement was completed at another licensed driving school, Coastline can generally count properly documented training hours toward the total before completing the remaining instruction.
Can I use a Coastline car for my DMV driving test?
Yes. Coastline's Road Test Session is designed for students who want to take the California DMV driving test in a Coastline vehicle. It includes a pre-test driving lesson, transportation to the DMV, and use of an insured Coastline training car equipped with an instructor brake. Schedule your DMV driving test appointment first, then book the Coastline Road Test Session for the same date and location.
What is Coastline's cancellation and rescheduling policy?
You can cancel or reschedule a Coastline driving lesson without a fee when you make the change at least 72 hours before the scheduled start time. Changes made 24 to 72 hours before the lesson are subject to a 35% fee, and cancellations made less than 24 hours before the lesson, as well as no-shows, are charged the full lesson price. Check the booking terms for the full policy.
How Can We Help?
Our customer service team is available from 7am to 8pm Pacific Time, 7 days a week.