Obtaining a California driver’s license can be a confusing process if you’re coming from out of state, another country or you are a first-time driver. There are several steps you need to follow to obtain your license. Infinity Insurance Agency Inc. (IIA) has compiled some helpful information and tips to help with the process.
California Driver’s License Requirements
Getting your driver’s license and having personal auto insurance are musts because both are required by law. To learn more about coverage options and which ones are right for your current driving situation, you can read our blogs in our Knowledge Center.
There are a few of requirements you must meet before getting your driver's license in California. Below is a short list of some of those requirements.
- The driver must be at least 16 years of age to start the process of getting a driver’s license.
- If the driver has never had a driver's license in any other state, the driver must complete the instruction permit test then hold the permit before taking the driving test.
- To apply for the written permit test or driving test you must provide:
- Proof of identity like a certified birth certificate or U.S. passport
- Proof of residency requirements are two different proofs of residency showing that you live in California like a home utility bill or a rental/lease agreement or a cell phone bill
- A legal full name document that proves your current name if your name doesn’t match on your proof of identity documentation
- Your social security card
For individuals who are unable to provide proof of legal presence in the US but meet California DMV requirements, proof of identity and California residency, an AB 60 license may be an option.
Transferring an Out-of-State License to California
If you are relocating from out of state to California, you will need to follow steps:
- Confirm your resident status. You must show that you are a current resident of California to proceed.
- Complete the California driver’s license application online.
- Along with the proof of residency you must also have proof of identity ready.
- You must take the written knowledge test at the DMV before you transfer your license. To prepare for this you might want to take a couple of days to study.
After you complete these steps, you are ready to go to the DMV and to get your temporary license.
The Instruction Permit
One of the first steps for new drivers is to pass the instruction permit test. This is a required written test given by the DMV before taking the driving test. Here are a few helpful tips to prepare for the written test:
- You must receive a passing score of 80% or higher. Study before you take the exam.
- Become familiar with the state’s driver handbook which covers road signs, laws, and safe driving practices. You will have 36 multiple choice questions from this handbook in your written test.
- Understand traffic laws. Some key areas to focus on include right-of-way rules, speed limits, and the consequences of traffic violations.
- The California DMV issues an interim driver’s license after you pass the behind-the-wheel test and it’s valid for 90 days while you wait for your official card in the mail.
The Vision Test
Another common test you must take and pass before you get behind the wheel is the vision screening. The DMV’s vision screening checks the driver’s ability to see 20/40 with both eyes, with or without glasses. You must pass this exam before you are allowed to take the written permit exam.
Driver Training
Once the written exam is completed and the provisional instruction permit is issued, a driver under 18 must do the following in order to receive a driver’s license:
- Have the instruction permit for at least 6 months before taking the driver’s license test.
- Provide signatures from a guardian or instructor that 50 hours of driving practice was finalized (10 of those completed at night.)
- Provide proof that driver’s education and driver training was completed.
Preparing for the Driving Test
Once you are ready to take your driving test it is best to practice driving beforehand. This could mean driving around your neighborhood and on the highway. Be sure to practice in different driving conditions like rain or in heavy traffic. To take the driving test, you must have your own vehicle and provide the current registration and proof of insurance. Make an appointment with the DMV beforehand.
What is the REAL ID?
The REAL ID is a recently accepted form of a driver’s license or identification card. It can now be used to board domestic flights within the U.S. and other secure federal locations like courthouses and military bases.
Receiving your Driver’s License
Once you have completed all the necessary requirements and passed all the tests you will finally receive your driver's license! Consider these next steps when you ask yourself what now?
- Follow restrictions: If you are a driver under 18, there are license restrictions that you must follow. These include no driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. and no passengers under the age of 20 for the first year.
- Practice safe driving: Now that you have your license don’t forget the important information you studied for within the written test. Always follow traffic laws and practice defensive driving.
- Keep your license updated: Don’t forget to renew your license as required and update your address as you move.
After going through the process of getting your driver’s license, don’t forget you must also have proper insurance for your car.
Get your free quote today by calling one of our agents at 1-855-478-3705!