Driving lessons for learner's permit - timing?
My son got his learner's permit in March, and would like to start practicing his driving with a parent, but the learner's permit isn't valid until you have your first lesson with a professional instructor, and I'm worried that might not be an "essential service." Does anyone know whether it is currently legal to take such a lesson in Contra Costa or Alameda Counties? (Also, the DMV says you can take your driving test only after you have "held" your learner's permit for 6 months. I hope that means 6 months from the date of issue, and not 6 months from the date of the first professional lesson! Does anyone know?) Thank you!
May 3, 2020
Parent Replies
My daughter just got her license in February. I just checked the website for the driving school we used, Coastline Academy, and they are closed. This makes sense, not safe to have two random people in a car right next to each other, even with masks. I believe that the 6 months is from the date the permit was issued. Also, when you make the behind the wheel appointment you have to call the DMV to do it and be prepared to be on hold for a long time. Once you get through you will find that the first available appointment for any office in the bay area will be at least 3 months, probably more now since they are not doing behind the wheel tests right now so there will be a lot of people wanting appointments when they open it up again. So call as soon as they start taking appointments again. It really is quite an ordeal to get a license these days, not at all what it was like when we did it. Good luck!