DL 120 Form – The DL 120 Form, officially titled Application for Junior Permit, is a California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) document used by minors aged 14 to under 18 who need limited driving privileges due to a qualifying hardship. Issued under California Vehicle Code (CVC) §§12513 and 12514, this form serves as a Statement of Facts that proves transportation alternatives are inadequate and that driving is essential for family, school, work, or family business needs.
Unlike a standard instruction permit, the Junior Permit is a special hardship-based approval. It allows the applicant to drive under strict conditions when no other responsible driver or public transportation option exists. The form must be submitted in person at a local DMV office along with the Driver License or Identification Card Application (DL 44).
Who Needs the DL 120 Junior Permit Application?
You need the DL 120 Form if you are:
- At least 14 years old but under 18.
- Facing a genuine hardship that makes driving essential.
- Unable to rely on other household drivers, public transit, carpools, taxis, biking, or walking.
Approved hardship reasons include:
- Family illness
- School transportation needs
- Work (to and from)
- Family enterprise (business operations)
This permit is not for teens who simply want to drive early. DMV approves it only when clear evidence shows that denying the permit would create a significant hardship.
Eligibility Requirements for the California Junior Permit
To qualify for a Junior Permit using DL 120, you must meet these official DMV criteria:
- Be 14 to under 18 years old.
- Have already applied for (or submit together) a California ID card or driver license via DL 44.
- Prove all other transportation is inadequate.
- Provide detailed explanations and supporting statements from physicians, school principals, or employers (depending on the hardship).
- Complete approved driver education and behind-the-wheel training within 6 months of permit issuance, or the permit may be canceled.
- Submit the completed form in person at your local DMV office.
Important note: The Junior Permit functions as a restricted driving privilege. Standard provisional license rules (no driving 11 p.m.–5 a.m., passenger limits, etc.) generally apply once you reach the appropriate age.
How to Download the Official DL 120 PDF (Free & Updated)?
The California DMV provides the most current version of the DL 120 Form directly on its official website.
Direct Download Link:
Download DL 120 Application for Junior Permit PDF
- Revision: 5/2016 (still the active form listed on the DMV Forms page as of 2026).
- File size: Small, easy to print or fill digitally.
- Always download from the official source above to avoid outdated or unofficial versions.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill Out and Submit DL 120?
- Gather Required Information
- Your full name, date of birth, address, phone numbers, and current CA ID number (if any).
- Details of every licensed driver in your household (names and DL numbers).
- Specific hardship reason and why other transportation cannot be used.
- Complete Section by Section (use the official PDF):
- Section 1: Applicant information.
- Section 2: Check the hardship reason(s).
- Section 3: Explain essential driving needs and why household drivers/public transit are inadequate.
- Sections 5–8: Provide additional details and obtain signed statements from physician, school principal, or employer (as required).
- Section 9: Parent/guardian authorization (both parents must sign unless one has sole custody).
- Attach Supporting Documents
- DL 44 (Driver License/ID Application).
- Physician’s statement (for family illness).
- School principal’s statement (for school transport).
- Employer’s statement (for work).
- Any extra sheets for detailed explanations.
- Submit In Person
Take the completed DL 120, DL 44, and supporting documents to your local DMV office. Incomplete applications will be delayed or denied.
Required Documents When Applying with DL 120
- Completed DL 120 form
- Completed DL 44 (Application for Driver License or ID Card)
- Proof of identity and residency (standard DMV requirements)
- Hardship verification statements (physician, principal, or employer)
- Parent/guardian signatures
What Happens After You Submit the DL 120 Form?
DMV reviews your application for hardship validity. If approved:
- You receive the Junior Permit.
- You must complete driver education and training within 6 months.
- You may drive only for the approved purpose(s).
- The permit remains valid until you turn 18 or no longer need it (whichever comes first).
If denied, DMV will explain the reason. You can reapply with additional documentation.
DL 120 Form vs. Standard Instruction Permit – Quick Comparison
| Feature | Junior Permit (DL 120) | Standard Instruction Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 14 | 15½ |
| Purpose | Hardship only | General driver training |
| Application | DL 120 + DL 44 (in person) | DL 44 only |
| Supporting Statements | Required (physician/principal/etc.) | Not required |
| Approval Basis | Proven inadequate transportation | Driver education enrollment |
Frequently Asked Questions About DL 120 Form
Can I fill out DL 120 online?
No. You must print, complete, and submit it in person at a DMV office.
Is the DL 120 PDF still valid in 2026?
Yes. The California DMV continues to list and provide the same official form at the link above.
Do I need a driver education certificate before applying?
No, but you must complete approved courses within 6 months after the permit is issued.
Where can I find the latest DMV forms?
Visit the official California DMV Forms page.
Need help locating your local DMV office?
Use the DMV’s office locator at dmv.ca.gov or call 1-800-777-0133.
Ready to Apply? Download Your DL 120 PDF Now
Official Download: DL 120 Application for Junior Permit PDF
Save time and avoid errors by downloading the form directly from the California DMV. Always use the official link above for the most current version.
Pro Tip: Review the full California Driver Handbook and visit dmv.ca.gov before your DMV appointment to ensure you bring everything required.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official California DMV website. Safe driving starts with the right paperwork!