Under 18? Wait 14 days to retest
Failing the drive test is common, and your score sheet tells you exactly what to fix. Here's when you can retake it, how to read the sheet, and how to turn it into a practice plan.
If you're under 18, the DMV makes you wait 14 days, not counting the day you failed. If you're 18 or over, the DMV handbook doesn't set a waiting period, so book the next appointment you can.
Your score sheet (form DL 32) shows exactly why. There are only three ways to fail it.
One mark in the critical errors section ends the test, however well the rest went. Rolling through a stop sign, speeding, a lane violation or the examiner having to step in all count.
Fix: practice that one situation until it's automatic. The critical errors list explains each one.
No single big mistake, but too many small ones. The score sheet shows which sections they came from.
Fix: look for the sections with the most marks, and drill those first. The practice scorer helps your supervisor mark drives the same way.
You couldn't find or show enough of the six "show me" items before setting off.
Fix: this is the quickest to put right. Run the show-me practice in your own car until you get every one.
Common marks on the score sheet, and what to practice before your retest.
| Marked for | What it usually means | What to practice |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic check | Not looking, or looking too late, for cars, cyclists and people on foot. | Say what you see out loud on practice drives. Turn your head at every junction. |
| Full stop or limit line | Rolling at stops, or stopping over or well short of the line. | Stop behind the line every time, count to two, then look before moving off. |
| Lane use or correct lane | Turning from the wrong lane, or finishing a turn in the wrong one. | Use your office page's lane guides, and practice the junctions near the office. |
| Signal | Signaling late, not at all, or forgetting to cancel. | Signal at least 100 feet before every turn, and check the indicator is off after. |
| Speed | Too fast, too slow, or 10 mph over or under the limit. | Know the limit on every road near the office. Check your speed after every turn. |
| Backing | Not looking back, drifting from the curb, or too many corrections. | Look over your right shoulder through the back window. Reverse 3 car lengths within 3 feet of the curb. |
Retaking at the same office? Find its practice routes, so the roads are familiar this time.
Before your retest
Practice the routes examiners actually use. The Driving Test Routes app has routes recorded from real tests at California DMV offices, with turn-by-turn voice directions. Your first week is free.
On a computer?Scan with your phone
Try it free for a week
If you're under 18, 14 days, not counting the day you failed. The DMV handbook doesn't set a waiting period for drivers who are 18 or over.
Your application fee covers a limited number of tests within 12 months. California's Vehicle Code sets that limit, and many guides put it at three drive test attempts. After that, or once 12 months have passed, you'll need to reapply.
Yes, there's a retest fee for each drive test after your first. Check the current amount on the DMV's fees page or at the counter.
Any critical driving error, such as rolling through a stop sign, driving 10 mph over the limit, or the examiner having to step in. See the full list.
You choose the office when you book your appointment. Practicing the roads around your chosen office will help either way.
Yes. Many people in California need more than one attempt. What matters is using your score sheet to fix the specific things that were marked.