Behind-the-wheel training is the in-car part of getting a California license as a teen. Here is what it is and how it fits with everything else.
Who needs it
Applicants under 18 complete 6 hours of professional behind-the-wheel training with a licensed driving school. Adults are not required to, but many take lessons to prepare for the drive test or build confidence.
When to start
Training starts after the teen has an instruction permit. The permit comes after driver education and passing the DMV knowledge test at 15½ or older.
How it fits with practice hours
Teens also log 50 hours of supervised practice with a licensed adult, including 10 at night, and hold the permit for at least six months before the drive test at 16 or older. Professional lessons early in that period make the practice hours more productive.
What you receive
When the 6 hours are complete, the driving school issues the training record the DMV requires.
Requirements can change. Confirm the current rules on dmv.ca.gov before you apply.
If your teen hasn't finished driver ed, start with online driver education. If they have a permit, book lesson one.