Minor’s Restrictions and Exceptions

When you are under 18 years old, your driver’s license will have the word provisional. As a provisional driver, you cannot drive:

• Between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. during the first 12 months you have your license.
• With passengers under 20 years old, unless your parent or guardian or other California-licensed driver (at least 25 years old) rides with you.
• For pay or operate vehicles that require a commercial Class A, B, or C license.

There are exceptions to these restrictions if you:

• Have a medical need and cannot reasonably find another way to travel. You must carry a note signed by your physician. The note must have your medical condition and date you are expected to recover.
• Drive for schooling or a school activity. You must carry a note signed by your school principal, dean, or designee.
• Must drive for work reasons. You must carry a note signed by your employer. The note must confirm your employment.
• Must drive an immediate family member. You must carry a note signed by your parent or legal guardian. The note must state the reason you need to drive, the family member, and date when the need will end.