Driver’s License for Non-Citizens in California

1. What are the requirements to obtain an instruction permit for driving in California?


In order to obtain an instruction permit for driving in California, you must be at least 15 1/2 years old, have a valid California State ID or Driver’s License, and pass the written exam. You must also provide parental or guardian consent if you are under 18 years old.

2. Can non-U.S. citizens obtain a driver’s license in California?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens can obtain a driver’s license in California. The California Department of Motor Vehicles provides driver’s licenses to eligible immigrants who cannot provide a Social Security Number (SSN) as proof of identity. Non-U.S. citizens can apply for a driver’s license using their passport, I-94, or other approved identification documents.

3. What documents are needed to apply for a provisional driver’s license in California?


To apply for a provisional driver’s license in California, you need the following documents:

1. Proof of identity, such as your passport or birth certificate;
2. Proof of California residency, such as a utility bill;
3. Your Social Security number;
4. A completed driver license/identification card application form;
5. A completed Parent/Guardian Certification form, if you are under 18;
6. Proof of legal presence in the US, if applicable;
7. Payment for the appropriate fee; and
8. A certification of completion from a DMV-approved Driver’s Education or Training Program, if applicable.

4. Is a Social Security Number required to obtain a driver’s license in California?


No, a Social Security Number is not required to obtain a driver’s license in California. However, applicants must provide proof of identity and proof of California residency to receive a driver’s license.

5. What is the minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in California?


The minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in California is 16 years old.

6. Are there any restrictions on non-citizens obtaining commercial vehicle driver’s licenses in California?


Yes. Non-citizens are eligible to obtain a California commercial class A or B general driver’s license, but they must provide proof of authorized presence in the United States. Proof of authorized presence may include a valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), Employment Authorization Document, or an unexpired foreign passport with an approved I-94 form. Non-citizens who do not have authorized presence in the United States are not eligible for a commercial driver’s license in California.

7. What are the restrictions for non-U.S. citizens driving with a foreign-issued driver’s license in California?


Non-U.S. citizens with a foreign-issued driver’s license can drive in California for up to 10 years if the license is valid and in the driver’s possession. After that 10 year period, the driver will need to obtain a valid California driver’s license or an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Non-U.S. citizens are also required to carry proof of legal presence such as a valid passport when operating a motor vehicle in California. The terms of the driver’s visa will also be taken into account when determining if they are legally allowed to drive in California.

8. What type of proof of identity is needed to get a driver’s license in California?


In California, applicants for a driver’s license must provide proof of identity, such as a valid passport or state-issued ID card. They must also provide proof of residency in the form of a utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement. Applicants must also provide proof of their Social Security number and any medical conditions that could impair driving ability.

9. How long do non-citizens need to be residents of California before being able to apply for a driver’s license?


Non-citizens must be permanent residents of California for at least six months or more before they can apply for a driver’s license.

10. Are there any additional requirements for non-citizens seeking to obtain or renew a driver’s license in California?


Yes. In addition to meeting all general requirements for a driver’s license, non-citizens must provide proof of authorized stay in the United States, such as an Employment Authorization Card, I-20A-B or Certificate of Eligibility. Non-citizens must also provide proof of identity and California residency.

11. Which type of tests are required to be taken by non-citizens to obtain a driver’s license in California?


Non-citizens must take the same type of tests as citizens in order to get a driver’s license in California. These include a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a driving skills test.

12. Do non-U.S. citizens need to provide proof of residency for obtaining a driver’s license in California?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens must provide proof of residency in California in order to obtain a driver’s license or state ID card. Documentation may include a valid passport, foreign driver’s license, foreign national identification card, or other acceptable documents.

13. Is there an additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in California?


No, there is no additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in California.

14. Is it possible for non-U.S. citizens to convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in California?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens can convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in California, as long as they meet all the requirements and obtain a valid US visa. Requirements may include taking written tests, passing a vision and road test, and providing proof of identity and residency.

15. What do non-citizens need to bring with them to the DMV when applying for a driver’s license in California?


Non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in California need to bring with them a proof of identity, proof of legal presence in the US, and proof of California residency. Acceptable documents include a passport, I-94, birth certificate, permanent resident card, or foreign driver’s license. They also need to bring proof of their current physical address such as a utility bill.

16. How much does it cost for a non-citizen to obtain a driver’s license in California?


It costs $33 for a non-citizen to obtain a driver’s license in California. However, additional fees may apply to applicants depending on their renewal cycle and other factors.

17. Are there any special laws that apply to drivers holding foreign driver’s licenses while operating motor vehicles in California?


Yes. According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, drivers with a valid driver’s license from their home country are allowed to operate motor vehicles in California for up to 12 months. After that, they must either apply for a California driver’s license or obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP). Additionally, foreign drivers must follow all California traffic laws, including the legal drinking age, speed limits, and seat belt requirements.

18. Can non-citizens obtain an international driving permit while residing in California?


Yes, non-citizens can obtain an international driving permit while residing in California. The International Driving Permit (IDP) is available to holders of a valid U.S. driver’s license who are at least 18 years old. It is available through the Automobile Club of Southern California.

19. Does California recognize foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes?


Yes, California recognizes foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes.

20. Are there any special requirements for renewing a non-citizen’s driver’s license in California?


Yes, non-citizens must show proof of legal presence in the US in order to renew their driver’s license in California. Acceptable forms of proof include a valid permanent resident card (green card), valid employment authorization document, foreign passport with valid visa, or an approved asylum document. Furthermore, non-citizens must also bring their unexpired driver’s license to the DMV office when renewing.