California Teen Driving Log Requirements (2026)
California requires learner permit drivers to complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving practice, including 10 hours at night, under Cal. Veh. Code § 12509. All practice sessions must be certified by a licensed adult supervisor before taking the DMV driving test for a provisional license.
California driving-log checklist
- Complete and log at least 50 hours of supervised practice.
- Complete at least 10 of those practice hours at night.
- Practice must be supervised by a licensed driver 25 years or older.
- Certify your driving log prior to your California DMV behind-the-wheel exam.
California requirements at a glance
| Total supervised hours | 50 hours |
|---|---|
| Night hours required | 10 hours |
| Day hours (non-night) | 40 hours |
| Minimum permit age | 15.5 years |
| Minimum license age | 16 years |
| Official DMV log form | Official supervised driving log |
| State statutory code | Cal. Veh. Code § 12509 |
What counts as night driving in California?
States set their own night-hour rules, so check the official California licensing source before relying on a drive toward your night-hour requirement. Sunset changes through the year, which can make a fixed clock-time plan misleading.
- California requires at least 10 of your 50 hours to be completed at night.
- Sunset shifts daily — confirm how California defines night driving instead of relying on a fixed schedule like "drive after 7 PM."
- DriveHours uses local sunset data to help you plan; confirm the current state rule before treating a session as a required night hour.
Helpful driving-log guides
Track your California hours the easy way
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