Kern County Drivers Ed: Your Path to a California License

  • Flexible, self-paced online learning for busy Kern County teens
  • Study anywhere with mobile-friendly, expert-crafted lessons
  • Boost permit test confidence with practice tests & resources
$24.95
Limited time offer. Regular price $49.95
14 - 17 ½ y.o.
Mandatory for a permit / license
Pass guarantee
Pass the course or get your money back
How to Get Your California Driver's License in Kern County
This guide will walk you through each step toward earning a California class C driver license, with specific tips for teens in Kern County. By following these steps, you'll be on the road to completing your California driver education and getting your driver's license confidently and efficiently.

Meet the Age Requirement

To start your journey toward a California drivers license, you must be at least 15 years old to enroll in a California drivers ed course. Kern County teens as young as 15½ can obtain a California permit, but driver education is the essential first step.

Enroll in a California Drivers Ed Course

Enroll in a California drivers ed course to cover road rules, safe driving practices, and essential traffic laws. This course includes 30 hours of engaging instruction that you can complete at your own pace. Upon finishing, you'll receive a Certificate of Completion (DL 400C), which is necessary to take the DMV permit test.

Prepare for the California DMV Permit Test

To ensure you're ready for the California permit test, study the California driving handbook and take a California DMV practice test to familiarize yourself with questions about California traffic laws, signs, and road safety. Practice tests can help you feel more confident and prepared when the real test comes around.

Obtain Your California Learners Permit (Instruction Permit)

Once you've completed drivers ed, reviewed the DMV handbook, and are at least 15½ years old, you can apply for a California permit at your local DMV. Kern County residents can choose from several DMV locations, including Bakersfield, Taft, and Lake Isabella.

When visiting the DMV, bring:

  • A signed Driver License Application (DL 44)
  • Proof of identity (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
  • Social Security Number
  • Proof of California residency
  • Certificate of Completion from drivers ed

You'll take the DMV permit test, which consists of 46 questions. You'll need at least 38 correct answers to pass. Be ready to complete a vision test and pay a $45 fee to receive your California DMV driving permit.

Validate Your California Learners Permit with Driving Lessons

Before your California permit allows you to drive with a supervising adult, you must complete a 2-hour behind-the-wheel drivers training session with a certified instructor. This lesson validates your permit, allowing supervised practice with an adult 25 or older. Complete an additional 4 hours of California driving classes with the instructor to meet the 6-hour requirement.

Start Your Supervised Driving Practice

With a validated California learners permit, you can now practice with a licensed adult over 25. In Kern County, enjoy scenic routes for practice driving, from Bakersfield's unique roadways to Kern River Valley's winding paths. You must complete at least 50 hours of supervised practice, including 10 hours of night driving. It's helpful to use the DMV's Parent-Teen Driving Guide to structure and log your driving sessions.

Observe Permit Restrictions

As a Kern County resident, remember that your learners permit has specific restrictions: you cannot drive alone, and a licensed adult (25 years or older) must always accompany you. Kern County's diverse landscapes are great for building skills, but obey traffic laws and stay aware of local driving conditions.

Complete the Permit Holding Period

Before applying for a provisional driver license, you must hold your permit for at least 6 months. During this time, continue your practice and, if needed, review the California handbook and take more DMV practice tests to reinforce your knowledge.

Schedule and Pass the California DMV Driving Test

After holding your permit for 6 months, practicing, and meeting all driving requirements, you're eligible to apply for a California provisional license. Make an appointment at the DMV for the California DMV behind the wheel test. Bring your provisional permit, proof of driving practice (parent signature), and your completion certificate from your in-car driving classes.

During the California DMV driving test, you'll demonstrate skills like smooth turns, safe lane changes, parking, and using mirrors. If you pass, you'll receive a provisional license, allowing independent driving with specific restrictions for the first 12 months.

Upgrade to a Full, Unrestricted Driver's License

Once you turn 18, your provisional license automatically upgrades to an unrestricted California drivers license. All previous restrictions are lifted, allowing you to drive freely throughout Kern County and beyond, enjoying the unique landscapes from Bakersfield's farmland to the mountainous Kern River area.

By following these steps and utilizing local resources like DMV offices in Bakersfield, Taft, or Lake Isabella, you're set to gain the skills and confidence needed for responsible driving. Remember, passing the California DMV permit test and the behind-the-wheel driving test takes dedication and practice. Safe driving!

Recommended by leading driver safety & consumer protection organizations

Kern County Driver Education: Online vs. Classroom

Choose the Best Path to Your California Driver's License

California Driver Education Online

Flexible Learning Designed for Kern County Residents

$24.95
Read more

With the California driver education online course, Kern County students enjoy the flexibility of learning at their own pace, whenever and wherever they choose. Skip the need to navigate busy roads or schedule around daily commutes; simply log in from home and focus on preparing for your California DMV permit test in comfort.

For those who might feel shy in a traditional classroom, the online course offers a private environment free from group pressure, allowing for a stress-free experience. And with fast certification, you'll receive a completion certificate at no extra cost as soon as you finish the course - plus, expedited options are available if you're ready to start your driving lessons right away.

The online course ensures Kern County residents can confidently prepare for the California driver license knowledge test without the inconvenience of commuting or the distractions of a classroom. Start today, and take your first step toward getting your California provisional driver license, entirely on your schedule.

Classroom Driver Ed in Kern County

Why Traditional Learning Can Be Challenging

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While a classroom-based drivers ed course is a traditional option, it's not without its challenges, especially for busy Kern County residents. In a group setting, students might feel pressured to keep pace with the class, which can make learning stressful for those who prefer a more relaxed approach. Classroom learning may also make some students hesitant to ask questions due to peer pressure, limiting engagement and understanding of important California DMV handbook topics.

Furthermore, traditional classrooms often lack interactive tools, meaning students miss out on engaging, tech-supported learning that could better prepare them for the California DMV practice test.

Without the hassle of scheduling and commuting, an online course offers Kern County residents an easier, more effective way to reach their California class C driver's license goals. Choose a learning method that lets you stay ahead - right from home.

DMV Offices Near You
Your Guide to DMV Locations in Kern County

Bakersfield DMV

3120 F St, Bakersfield, CA 93301

3.7(842)
Bakersfield Southwest DMV

7000 Schirra Ct, Bakersfield, CA 93313

3.6(533)
Shafter DMV

548 Walker St, Shafter, CA 93263

3.6(257)
Lake Isabella DMV

5520 Lake Isabella Blvd, Lake Isabella, CA 93240

4.2(111)
Ridgecrest DMV

540 W Perdew Ave, Ridgecrest, CA 93555

4.6(286)
Delano DMV

631 Jefferson St, Delano, CA 93215

3.5(201)
Taft DMV

165 Center St, Taft, CA 93268

4(168)
Kern County's Top Drivers Ed
Fast, Easy & DMV-Approved for Local Teens
Stay Informed & Safe
Our California drivers ed course provides the latest in safe driving practices and local traffic laws, updated as Kern County's roadways evolve. This means you'll study relevant content, preparing you for safe driving from Bakersfield to the mountains. You'll be equipped with the most current California DMV handbook insights, making your journey to a California class C license both smooth and informed.
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Quick, Free Certification
Earn your certificate fast with our California drivers ed course, sent free of charge upon completion. Need it sooner? We offer expedited options for busy Kern County students eager to get their California drivers permit or provisional license. A simple, efficient way to move forward on your journey to your California class C driver license.
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Practice Tests Included
Boost your confidence with unlimited DMV practice test access, designed to simulate the real California DMV written test experience. Kern County students can practice anytime, building the skills they need to ace the California DMV knowledge test on the first try.
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Kern County Driver's Ed & Licensing FAQs
Answers to Your Driver's Ed and Licensing Questions
Do you offer drivers ed in Bakersfield and other areas around California?

Yes, we offer California drivers ed online courses for residents of Bakersfield and throughout Kern County, as well as other areas in California. In addition to Bakersfield, we serve counties such as Tuolumne County, Yuba County, Solano County, San Bernardino County, and Santa Barbara County. Our online courses are accessible from anywhere, providing flexibility and convenience to complete your driver education. We also cater to residents of cities like San Luis Obispo, Ukiah, Napa, Merced, Red Bluff, Lakeport, and Modesto. Enroll with us today to start working toward your California learners permit and California driver's license.

Can you take drivers ed in a different state?

While it may be possible to take drivers ed in another state, it is generally not recommended for those planning to obtain a California learners permit. California has specific requirements for drivers education that may differ from other states. A course taken outside California must meet California's standards and be DMV-approved to be accepted, which can complicate the process. To ensure a smooth experience, it is best to complete a California drivers ed course designed to fulfill state requirements.

How do you start drivers ed?

To start drivers ed in California, you must be at least 15 years old. Begin by enrolling in a state-approved California drivers ed course. Our online program covers all essential topics, such as California driving laws, road safety, and traffic signs. Once enrolled, you can study at your own pace. Upon completion of the course, you will receive a certificate of completion, which is required to apply for a California DMV driving permit.

After completing drivers ed, what do I do?

Once you have completed your California drivers ed course, the next step is to obtain your California learners permit. This involves making an appointment at the DMV, bringing your drivers ed completion certificate, and passing the California DMV test, which covers traffic laws, road signs, and safety rules. Once you have your permit, you can begin California behind the wheel drivers training with a licensed instructor and practice supervised driving with a licensed adult.

How long does it take for the drivers ed certificate to arrive?

After completing our California drivers ed course, your certificate is typically sent via USPS and arrives within 3-5 business days. For those who need their certificate faster, we offer expedited delivery for an additional fee, providing flexibility depending on your timeline and needs.

Do schools offer drivers ed?

Most schools do not offer drivers ed directly. Instead, they often partner with state-approved providers like us to ensure students meet the requirements. Our online California drivers ed course provides flexibility, allowing students to complete their driver education at their own pace. If your school does not provide drivers ed, you can enroll in our course independently to fulfill the state requirements.

How many times can you take the driving test in California?

In California, you can take the California driving test up to three times within a year from the date of your application. If you do not pass after three attempts, you will need to reapply and pay the application fee again. It's important to practice thoroughly and take advantage of professional California driving lessons if needed to build your confidence.

How many times can you take the written driving test in California?

You can attempt the California DMV test, also known as the written driving test, up to three times within one year. If you do not pass after three tries, you must submit a new application and pay the required fee again. To maximize your chances of passing, consider using our California DMV permit test online practice tools and study the California drivers handbook thoroughly.

How long is the California permit test?

The California permit test, which you take to obtain a California learners permit, consists of 46 multiple-choice questions for individuals under 18 and 36 questions for those over 18. To pass, you need to correctly answer at least 38 questions (for those under 18) or 30 questions (for adults). The test covers topics such as traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.

How long is the California driving test?

The California driving test typically takes about 20 minutes. During this test, you will demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle safely and obey California traffic laws. The examiner will evaluate your skills in areas such as turning, parking, lane changes, and following road signs. Be prepared by practicing with a licensed adult or completing professional behind the wheel driving lessons.

What is a permit test?

The permit test, or California DMV test, is a written knowledge test required to obtain a California learners permit. It evaluates your knowledge of road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. Passing this test is a crucial step in the process of obtaining a California driver's license. We offer a variety of California DMV practice test options to help you prepare.

How long does drivers training take?

In California, drivers training, also known as behind the wheel training, consists of at least 6 hours of professional driving lessons with a licensed instructor for teens under 18. This requirement is broken into multiple sessions and includes supervised practice with a licensed adult outside of lessons. Adults seeking to gain more confidence behind the wheel can also opt for professional California driving lessons. 

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