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Who needs a California driver license?
People who live in California and use public transportation in the state. Exceptions:
Unless the equipment is utilized or moved on a highway, residents are prohibited from driving livestock equipment.
Motor vehicles owned by the United States Government that are used by United States Government employees and officers in the performance of their duties
Driving an off-road vehicle across a roadway by residents
What do I need to do to obtain a California driver license?
Your record should be free of any noteworthy actions.
The tuition fee must be paid by you.
Knowledge and vision tests are required.
You must be in excellent mental and physical health; and you must demonstrate this.
You must show that you are capable of driving in a safe manner.
I am a new resident in California. Do I need a California Driver License?
If you want to drive in California, you must apply for a California driver's license within 10 days.
How is residency in California established?
If you meet the following criteria, you are considered a Californian:
voters in California are eligible to cast ballots.
enroll in a California college or university and pay in-state tuition.
request a property tax exemption for homeowners; or
various privileges and advantages generally reserved for residents.
Can undocumented immigrants apply for a California driver's license?
Yes, the DMV is required by law to issue driver's licenses to persons who are not eligible for a Social Security number provided the proper proof is supplied.
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What is the age requirement to apply for a California driver license?
It's illegal to participate if you're under the age of 18.
I am 18 years old. Can I obtain a California instruction permit while learning to drive?
If you are at least 18 years old, complete the application criteria, and pass the relevant eyesight and knowledge exams, you are eligible to obtain a California permit.
I have a California instruction permit. Do I have any restrictions?
Yes. The minimum age requirement for a licensed California driver is 18 years old while you are driving on your instruction permit. There should be ample room for the driver to take control of the vehicle if necessary.
I have a California instruction permit and I want to obtain a California driver license. What do I have to do?
To take the behind-the-wheel driving exam, you must schedule an appointment with a DMV field office when you are ready. Keep in mind that you'll need to bring your instruction permission.
I am at least 15 ½ years old and under 18 years old. Can I obtain a California driver license?
Minor temporary permits are not available to those under the age of 18. It is required that your application be signed by your parent(s) or legal guardian(s). In addition, you must provide evidence that you have finished or are currently enrolled in an authorized driver education program, if you have not already.
When is my provisional minor permit valid?
When you begin your behind-the-wheel instruction with an instructor, your temporary license is valid. To make it official, he/she will need to sign it.
I have a minor provisional permit. Do I have any restrictions?
Yes. At any moment, you are not permitted to drive alone.
I am at least 16 years old, I have a provisional minor permit and I have completed 50 hours of supervised driving practice (certified on my instruction permit). Can I apply for a minor driver license?
Yes. Driver education and training as well as a behind-the-wheel driving test must be completed before applying for a minor driver license.
I have obtained a minor driver license. Can I drive alone?
Yes, as long as your driving record is clear of any accidents or infractions. However, you are prohibited from driving between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. and from transporting passengers under the age of 20 while driving alone.
I am 18 years old and I have a valid minor driver license. What do I have to do?
Restrictions on your driver's license expire at the age of 18. Duplicate licenses without the phrase "provisional" are available for a small charge.
I did not pass the knowledge test or the behind-the-wheel driving test. Can I obtain a California driver license?
Unfortunately, no.
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Do I have to prove my California residency in order to apply for a California driver license?
Yes, in order to get a driver's license in California, you must provide evidence of residence.
Which documents do I need to present in order to apply for a California driver license?
a valid I-94 (international Passport with a valid I-94, US Birth Certificate, US Passport, Permanent Resident Card, etc.)
Number assigned to an individual by the federal government.
Additionally, you will be required to provide your fingerprint, signature, and picture.
The name on my document is different from the name on my driver license application. What do I have to do?
Before and after the exam, you must produce an approved complete name document that includes your legal name (adoption documents, name change documents, marriage certificate...).
Where do I find the complete list of accepted documents?
In order to see the whole list, visit www.dmv.ca.gov or consult the document titled "Documents Required to Apply for a Driver License (FFDL 5A) Fast Facts.".
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Which are the required tests that I must pass in order to obtain a California driver license?
a test of the eyes
a test of one's knowledge
Driving exam at the wheel
Where can I take the knowledge, vision and behind-the-wheel tests?
Tests are available in the vast majority of California DMV locations that deal with driver's license issues.
Do I have to make an appointment to take one or more of the required tests?
The DMV website is www.dmv.ca.gov and the phone number is 1-800-777-0133.
Do I have to provide a vehicle to take the behind-the-wheel driving test?
Yes. A roadworthy car with a current registration is required. Please bring evidence of insurance with you as well.
Can I use a rental vehicle to take my behind-the-wheel driving test?
Indeed, but be certain that your name appears on the lease. Driving exams cannot be excluded from the contract.
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I am visiting California and I have a valid driver license issued by my home state or country. Do I need a California driver license?
As long as your home driver's license is valid, you may legally drive in California as long as you are at least 18 years old.
I have a driver license issued by another state or US territory and I want to apply for a California driver license. Do I need to take the behind-the-wheel test?
There is no need for this test.
I have a driver license issued by another country and I want to apply for a California driver license. Do I need to take the behind-the-wheel test?
Yes, if you hold a foreign driver's license, you must take a behind-the-wheel exam.
My California driver license is lost, stolen or damaged. What do I have to do?
You'll be able to get a new one. The Driver License Application form and fee must be submitted to a California DMV office.
I have a valid California driver license but I legally changed my name. What do I have to do?
Before you submit your driver's license to the DMV, you must alter your name with the Social Security Administration. As part of the application process, you will be required to show proof of your identity and pay the necessary charge.
I have a valid California driver license but I changed my address. What do I have to do?
Within ten days of moving, you must inform the DMV of your new address.
