If you have a current and valid driver’s license from a foreign country, you can legally drive in California. You do not need to get a California driver’s license or international driving permit (“IDP”) as long as:
- You are at least 18 years of age,
- You are a resident of the country that issued your license,
- The license was lawfully issued in the country where you reside and is not expired,
- The license covers the type of vehicle you are driving in California (car, truck, motorcycle, etc.),
- Your automobile insurance (whether from your home country or bought as traveler’s insurance) meets California’s 15/30/5 minimum standards, and
- The license is in your possession while you are driving.1
Should I get an IDP?
Getting an international driving permit (IDP) is not required in California but is always recommended, especially if your driver’s license is not in English. An IDP translates your identification information into 10 languages, and it is recognized as a valid form of ID.
IDPs are also useful if you are pulled over for a traffic stop. Law enforcement will have an easier time verifying your credentials to drive if you have an IDP.
In addition, some rental car agencies require an IDP in addition to a foreign license. So your driving options might be limited if you do not have an IDP.
You can obtain an IDP only in your country of residence.2
What if my country does not issue driver’s licenses?
If you live in a country that does not require driver’s licenses, you may drive in California if:
- You are at least 18 years old, and
- You are operating a foreign vehicle you have owned for a maximum of 30 days.3
What if I am under 18?
If you are 16 or 17, you may drive in California for a maximum of 10 days immediately following your entry into the state.
You are not subject to the 10-day limitation if:
- You have a valid, current driver’s license issued by your country of residence, AND
- You have obtained a nonresident minor’s certificate from the California DMV and have filed proof of financial responsibility in connection therewith.
All these documents must be in your immediate possession whenever you drive in California.4
What if a foreigner moves to California?
Once you establish residency in California, you have only 10 days to obtain a California’s drivers license. After 10 days, the DMV will not recognize your foreign license.
Why does California allow foreigners to drive with a foreign license?
Perhaps more than any other state, California has a vibrant tourist community that is friendly to:
- business travelers,
- vacationing visitors, and
- international guests, such as diplomats and ambassadors.
Requiring foreigners who are in California temporarily to get a state license makes no practical sense. Also, it may hurt international relations and hinder the state’s economy.
What happens if I get caught driving without a valid license?
It is a California crime under Vehicle Code 12500(a) VC to drive without a valid driver’s license. This offense is a wobblette that can be prosecuted either as
- a misdemeanor or
- an infraction.
As a misdemeanor, driving without a valid license carries up to:
- 6 months in jail and/or
- $1,000 in fines.
As an infraction, driving without a valid license carries a maximum $250 fine.5
If you are a non-citizen, driving without a valid license could have negative immigration consequences, including deportation.
Related Offenses
- Possessing a Fake ID (VC 470b)
- Driving on a Suspended License (VC 14601.1(a))
- Making False Statements to Police (PC 148.5)
Additional Resources
If you are considering getting a California driver’s license, refer to these informational articles by the California DMV.
- New to California – Guide for new state residents.
- Applying For a New Driver’s License – Step-by-step guide for getting a DL.
- Processing Times – How long you can expect to wait to get a license.
- Knowledge and Driving Test Preparation – Explanation of the tests required to get a California DL.
- New Registration – How to register your vehicle.
- California Driver’s Handbook – Comprehensive guide to California driving laws.
Also see this Triple A “how to “guide on IDPs.
Legal References
- California Driver Handbook, section 5, The California Driver License, California DMV.
- See also Applying for a Driver’s License or State Identification Card, ICE. See also Foreign Nationals Driving in the U.S., USA.gov.
- California Vehicle Codes 6700-6703 VC.
- California Vehicle Code 12504 VC. California Driver Handbook, section 3, The California Driver License, California DMV. California Driver Handbook, section 9, Minors’ Permit Requirements, California DMV. See also Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual, chapter 12.145 Privileges of Nonresidents (CVC §6700), California DMV. See also Vehicle Industry Registration Procedures Manual, chapter 12.145 Privileges of Nonresidents/CVC §6700, California DMV.
- California Vehicle Code 12500(a) VC.
(a) A person may not drive a motor vehicle on a highway unless the person holds a valid driver’s license under this code, except those persons expressly exempted.
(b) A person may not drive a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle upon a highway unless the person then holds a valid driver’s license or endorsement issued under this code for that class, except those persons who are expressly exempted under this code, or those persons specifically authorized to operate motorized bicycles or motorized scooters with a valid driver’s license of any class, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 12804.9.”
