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Shoro.aiYes, you can take the California permit test in a language other than English. The California DMV knowledge test is offered in 35 languages. Applicants select their preferred language at a TouchScreen Terminal in any DMV field office.
The permit test is available in 35 languages. You select your language directly on the automated testing terminal.
The complete list includes:
A Spanish speaker in Los Angeles can walk into the DTLA office and select 'Español' on the screen. A Mandarin speaker in San Francisco can choose 'Chinese (Simplified).' An applicant in San Diego can take the test in Vietnamese.
Bring your own headphones with a standard 3.5mm jack to smaller offices to use the audio feature.
The DMV does not provide live interpreters for the permit test. You must use the pre-translated test on the computer terminal.
Paper tests are only used during technical outages and may be limited to the top 12 most-requested languages. Call the DMV Help Line at 1-800-777-0133 to confirm paper test language availability before visiting.
Translation quality varies. Terms like 'right of way' or 'yield' can differ slightly, so study the official California Driver's Handbook in your language to learn the exact terminology used on the test.
An applicant in Sacramento failed twice on questions about 'blind spots' because the Armenian translation used a different phrase. Studying the Armenian handbook clarified the term.
Complete the Driver's License & ID Card Application (DL 44/eDL 44) online before your visit to avoid form errors that cause delays.
The Audio/Read-Aloud feature is available for applicants with reading challenges. You hear questions and answers through headphones.
Fully supported audio languages are English, Spanish, Chinese (Mandarin), Korean, Tagalog, Vietnamese. Check the terminal for other languages.
For individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, an American Sign Language (ASL) Video Test is available on the TouchScreen Terminal.
The DMV provides headphones at larger offices. Bring your own to smaller locations.
Online knowledge test available in 35 languages for eligible applicants. Check dmv.ca.gov for webcam requirements and system specifications before scheduling.
There is no language requirement for driving in California. You only need to pass the knowledge test in your chosen language to get a permit.
Schedule an appointment online to avoid long waits that risk missing the 4:30 PM test initiation cutoff, especially at busy offices like the one in Van Nuys.
All first-time applicants must take the knowledge test in person at a DMV field office, unless eligible for online testing. The non-refundable application fee is $45, covering three attempts within 12 months.
| Applicant Type | Questions | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|
| Under 18 | 46 | 38 Correct |
| Adult (18+) | 36 | 30 Correct |
Arrive by 3:30 PM to ensure you have a full hour to finish before the office closes. If you're wondering how long you have to complete the test, plan for at least an hour to avoid rushing.
Verify your chosen DMV office's closing time. An applicant in Fresno assumed a 7:00 PM closure but the computers shut down at 5:00 PM, invalidating their test.
Language shouldn't limit your access to a driver's license, but knowing the right terminology is half the battle.
After passing, check what steps come next to move from permit to provisional license.
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