Are you moving to California and need to get a driver's license? Or maybe you're already a resident of the Golden State and need to renew your license? Either way, getting a California driver's license can be a daunting task. But don't worry, we've got you covered. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps of getting a California driver's license, from applying for it to passing the driving test. If you're moving to California from outside the United States, you'll need to schedule and pass the driving test.
Once you've established residency in the state, you must apply for your CA driver's license within 10 days. If you haven't received a renewal notice in the mail, fill out a California Driver's License Renewal Eligibility Information by Mail (DL 410 FO) form. After USCIS verifies your legal presence, you'll obtain your driver's license. If you already have a driver's license from another state, your driving test is likely to be waived.
When applying for a new CA driver's license, refer to the steps in the Applying for a California Driver's License section below. After passing your driving test, you'll get a temporary driver's license that will be valid for 90 days. If you receive a renewal notice in the mail (RBM) along with a renewal identification number (RIN), you may be eligible to renew your CA driver's license online. It's important to note that if your driver's license has expired, law enforcement could cite you.
When applying for a new driver's license, you'll need to fill out the Driver's License Application (Form DL 4), which is not available online. After completing the form and verifying your identity, your fingerprint and photo will be taken. If you're 16 years old, you are only eligible for a provisional license after completing a driver's education course. Navigating appointments, forms, and tests can be confusing and time-consuming. To avoid delays in getting your driver's license, make sure to check if you need to apply for a new one or not before going to the DMV.
