Behind-the-Wheel Training

After getting your permit, California requires at least 6 hours of professional behind-the-wheel training with a licensed instructor before you can take the road test. Your instructor must sign your permit — no signature, no road test.

What you need to know

Minimum 6 hours of professional BTW training required by law
Typically done in three 2-hour sessions — spread out as needed
Instructor must sign your permit after at least 1 hour is complete
That signature is required before any supervised practice with a parent
Expect to pay $50–$100 per hour — shop around for packages
Make sure the school is licensed by the California DMV

We partner with a DMV-licensed behind-the-wheel program. Book lessons online and schedule at your convenience.

DriversEd.com

Behind-the-Wheel Training

Book professional behind-the-wheel lessons through DriversEd.com — one of California’s most established licensed programs. Qualified instructors, flexible scheduling, and the signed permit completion you need to take your road test.

Book lessons →

Verify a driving school license at dmv.ca.gov

Passing Lane may earn a referral fee when you book through a partner school. This never affects our recommendations — we only partner with DMV-licensed programs.