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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why Choose Us?
  • We offer discounted package deals.

  • All of our cars are 2023 models or newer.

  • We are a fully licensed and insured driving school.

  • We do pick-up and drop-off at any requested location within our service area.

  • We are one of the only driving schools in San Diego that come equipped with both a gas, and brake pedal for added safety.

  • If you are under the age of 18, and don't pass the driving test after the first attempt, you get a free driving lesson to help prepare you for the 2nd try.

Under 18: What are the requirements to obtain my drivers license?
  • Obtain your provisional instruction permit, also known as a "Learner's Permit".

  • You must first drive 2 hours with a licensed driving instructor in order to validate your permit before driving with your parents.

  • You must wait a minimum of 6 months and 1 day after the date your permit was issued to take the behind-the-wheel test.

  • You must practice a minimum of 50 hours of behind-the-wheel driving, 10 of which must be at night.

  • You must practice a minimum of 6 hours of behind-the-wheel driving with a licensed instructor.

  • Behind-the-wheel driving tests are available by appointment only. Once you are ready, schedule an appointment at www.dmv.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-777-0133

Under 18: How do I obtain my Learner's Permit?
  • To apply for a California Instruction Permit (under age 18), you must:

  • Be at least 15 ½

  • Have a Certificate of Completion/Enrollment of Driver Education.

  • Complete the California Driver’s License or ID Card Application.

  • Signatures by all parent(s)/guardian(s) with custody.

  • Visit a DMV office (schedule an appointment), where you will:

  • Bring your California Identification Card or proof of identity and residency.

  • Pay the application fee.

  • Pass a vision exam.

  • Take a photo.

  • Take the knowledge test(s). There are multiple choice questions based on the California Driver’s Handbook, and a passing score is 80%.

Under 18: How should I schedule my lessons?
  • If you would like to take the test as soon as possible, we recommend spacing the lessons evenly apart across the 6 month waiting period.

  • For example, if you are taking the recommended 3 lessons: The first lesson should be taken right away, the second lesson should be around the 3 month mark, and the third lesson should be taken around the week of the test.

  • We are not permitted to do more than one lesson in 24 hours.

Can we practice on the test route?
  • No. It is against the law to practice on any test route or within 200ft of any test route.

Can I take my knowledge test online before visiting a DMV office?
  • DMV offers an online knowledge test. This test is offered in 35 languages and is available Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The test needs a webcam and cannot be done on a smartphone or tablet. You will verify your identity before starting and will be monitored during the test.

  • If eligible, you can choose this option after filling out your driver’s license application. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian will need to give permission before you can take the test.

  • The test can be attempted online twice. If you fail both attempts, you will need to go to a DMV office to take the test a third time.

Do I have to schedule my behind-the-wheel test?
  • ​Yes, behind-the-wheel driving tests are available by appointment only. Once you are ready, schedule an appointment at www.dmv.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-777-0133.

Need Assistance?

Give us a call or send an email so we can help answer any of your questions!

info@drivesmartsd.com

(760)444-0388

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