Contenu

• Valid Out of State Licenses
• Applying for the New License
• Penalty for Driving Without a California LIcense
• New California Car Registration

If youre moving to the Golden State, youll soon have to acquire a new drivers license to legally cruise down Rodeo Drive. California allows visitors, as well as new arrivals, to use a valid license from another state, but it sets a tight deadline for anyone who takes up legal residence. Since the states DMV offices require appointments, its smart to get organized for this chore before you arrive.

Valid Out of State Licenses

California requires all drivers to have a valid license. State law also insists that new residents get a California license within 10 days of establishing residency. There are several actions that mean youre now a legal Californian: voting in a state-held election, paying tuition as a resident, or filing for a benefit limited to California residents, such as a property tax exemption.

Applying for the New License

To secure a new California license, youll need to make an appointment with a California DMV office, where youll provide a completed Form DL44, and have your photograph and thumb taken. You also need a Social Security number -- which will be verified by the DMV -- pass an eye exam and pass a 36-question written test. You dont need to pass a driving test unless youve moved from a foreign country.

Penalty for Driving Without a California LIcense

Driving without a valid license is a misdemeanor under California Vehicle Code Section 12500. If youre still carrying a valid license from out of state, you may be let off with a warning and reminder of the law covering new residents. Since police officers may not have access to the date of your legal residency, they may not be able to write a ticket or collect a fine. However, theyll inquire as to the date you moved in, and a second stop for the same reason will probably mean a citation and a fine. This can reach a maximum $1,000, in addition to six months in jail, three years probation and/or a 30-day impound of your car, on top of other penalties for driving on out-of-state plates and car registration.

New California Car Registration

Although you may be able to drive temporarily on a valid out of state license, youll have to register your vehicle in California. This requires the last registration certificate, as well as a California Application for Title or Registration, signed by all owners shown on the old registration. Youll also need a Verification of Vehicle form completed by an appropriate party. California also wants to see the out of state title if theres a change of registered owner. Youll have to turn in the old license plates unless theyre expired or the original state where they were issued requires you to turn them in.