San Francisco Driving Permit

Driving Permit San Francisco

In the state of California, driving is a privilege and not a right. Therefore, only those who are allowed by the state to drive can drive on the roads and highways. There are two types of drivers in California, those who hold a drivers license and those who hold an instruction or driving permit. A driving permit allows you to drive under supervision and prepare for behind-the-wheel test.

If you are a resident of San Francisco, you may be eligible for a permit if you are 18 years of age or younger, pass the required tests and meet the application requirements. You must be accompanied on the road by an 18 years old driver who holds a valid California’s driver license. He/she should be sitting with you at all times while you are driving. An instruction permit does not allow you to drive alone. A driving permit San Francisco can also be issued to a motorcycle rider. He/she however cannot drive at the night time, on freeway or carry passengers.

If you are younger than 18 years of age then you must fulfill the following in order to obtain an instruction permit in San Francisco:

  • Pass a traffic laws and road signs test
  • Complete the DL 44 form (Driver License or Identification Card Application)
  • Have your parent(s) or legal guardian (s) sign the DL 44 form
  • Be at least 15½ years of age but less than 18 years of age

If you are however between 15½ and 17½ years of age, you must show one of the following:

  • That you have completed driver education, or
  • That you are currently enrolled and participating in a driver training program

Even though you may obtain an instruction permit, it will not be valid till you reach the age of 17½ or start your behind-the-wheel driver training. Unlike in the case of adult instruction permit, a minor instruction permit allows only a 25 years old person with valid California driver’s license to sit next to the driver.

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