From permit to license: the steps in California

Under 18: driver ed before the permit (from 15½; optional from 17½, but then no drive test before 18), knowledge test, training signed by an instructor, 50 hours of practice (10 at night), 6 months with the permit, drive test at 16 or later. Then 12 months with no driving 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. and no passengers under 20 without a parent, guardian or licensed driver 25+, and no phone until 18. Adults: permit, practice with a licensed driver 18+, drive test.