Tags show the kind of rule and whether it’s a written-test point or matters on the drive test (our tagging). Each rule links to its official source.
Most drivers need a noncommercial Class C license; driving commercial vehicles, motorcycles, or certain other vehicle types requires a different license class.
DMV process California Driver Handbook: The California Driver’s License
California offers driver’s licenses to all of its residents, whatever their immigration status.
DMV process California Driver Handbook: The California Driver’s License
A California ID card is for identification only and does not let you drive. Eligible people of any age may apply for one.
DMV process California Driver Handbook: The California Driver’s License
With no license from California or another state, start with a Class C instruction permit: apply, submit documents, pay a non-refundable fee, and pass the knowledge and vision tests.
DMV process California Driver Handbook: Getting an Instruction Permit and Driver’s License
Applicants must provide proof of identity, two proofs of California residency, and a Social Security number (exceptions may apply to both of the last two), plus a legal-name document if names don’t match.
DMV process California Driver Handbook: Getting an Instruction Permit and Driver’s License
Permit holders may practice only with a California-licensed driver at least 18 sitting close enough to take control if needed. For a minor, that driver must be 25 or older unless it’s a parent, guardian or certified driving instructor.
New York differs: With a learner permit you may drive only when a supervising driver aged 21 or older, licensed for the vehicle you’re in, sits beside you in the front seat. New York rule
Law Written test California Driver Handbook: Getting an Instruction Permit and Driver’s License
The knowledge test is multiple choice, with three tries before you must reapply. No aids are allowed, including the handbook or your phone.
New York differs: The written test has 20 questions. You pass with at least 14 right, and at least 2 of those must come from the 4 road-sign questions, so a weak sign score fails you even with 14 correct. New York rule
DMV process California Driver Handbook: The Testing Process
Every applicant takes a vision test; if you pass it wearing glasses or contacts, your license will require corrective lenses while driving.
DMV process California Driver Handbook: The Testing Process
For the drive test, bring your permit, a California-licensed driver 18 or older (25+ for minors) unless you’re already licensed, a safe car, and current insurance and registration proof. A license from another country doesn’t excuse you: DMV still requires an accompanying driver to and from the test.
DMV process Drive test California Driver Handbook: The Testing Process
Before the drive test, the examiner checks that the driver’s window opens, the windshield is unobstructed, there are two mirrors including a left one, and both brake lights work.
DMV process Drive test California Driver Handbook: The Testing Process
A test car needs at least 1/32 inch of tire tread (no donut spare), an inch of clearance under the pressed brake pedal, and a horn heard from 200 feet.
New York differs: Tires must have at least 2/32 inch of tread. Penny test: put Lincoln’s head into the deepest groove; if you can see all of it, replace the tire. Cuts down to the cords, bumps and bulges are also illegal. New York rule
DMV process Drive test California Driver Handbook: The Testing Process
Driver-assist technologies such as automated parallel parking, lane-departure assist, and adaptive cruise control are banned on the drive test; backup cameras and blind-spot monitors are allowed, but you must still look yourself.
New York differs: On the road test you may use warnings (backup camera, blind-spot, collision and lane-departure alerts, parking sensors) and assists such as emergency braking and lane keeping, but not cruise control (adaptive included) or parking assist such as automatic parallel parking. The examiner checks that you didn’t rely on them. New York rule
DMV process Drive test California Driver Handbook: The Testing Process
After moving, update your address with DMV within 10 days. Your card isn’t reissued automatically; a replacement showing the new address costs a fee.
Law Written test California Driver Handbook: Changing, Replacing, and Renewing Your License
It’s illegal to drive on an expired license. Renewals and replacements for lost, stolen, or damaged cards can be done online or at a DMV office.
Law Written test California Driver Handbook: Changing, Replacing, and Renewing Your License
If you’re out of state and can’t renew, email DMV before your license expires to request a one-year extension; limited-term licenses don’t qualify.
DMV process California Driver Handbook: Changing, Replacing, and Renewing Your License