How to Change Your Driver License to California

What you need to do to switch to a California driver license

If you move to California or become a resident, you must get a California driver license within 10 days of establishing residency. You cannot legally drive on an out-of-state license once you live here, even if that license is still valid. The process involves visiting a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office in person, passing a vision test, and paying a fee.

You do not need to take a written or driving test if your out-of-state license is still valid and you are over 18. The DMV will issue you a California license based on your existing driving record. If your out-of-state license has expired, you may need to take the written test depending on how long it has been since expiration.

Key Takeaways

You must change to a California license within 10 days of moving to the state, even if your current license is still valid.
Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of California residency, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your legal name to the DMV.
You will pass a vision test but not a written or driving test if your out-of-state license is current and you are 18 or older.
The fee for a California driver license is $39 for a four-year license or $69 for an eight-year license, and you choose the term length.
Your new California license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks; you can request a temporary paper license to drive when ready.

Documents you must bring to the DMV

The DMV requires six pieces of information before they will issue a California license. You need to bring documents that prove each one. Bring originals or certified copies—photocopies are not accepted.

Proof of identity: Your current out-of-state driver license, passport, or passport card. If you do not have any of these, you can use a military ID or tribal ID.

Proof of California residency: A recent utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail addressed to you at your California address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 62 days. A cell phone bill or credit card statement does not count.

Proof of your Social Security number: Your Social Security card, W-2 form, 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can explore for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and bring the letter from the IRS.

Proof of your legal name: If your name has changed since your out-of-state license was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. If your name on your out-of-state license matches your current legal name, you do not need this document.

Steps to complete your license change at the DMV

Visit a DMV office during business hours. You can make an appointment online at dmv.ca.gov or walk in, though wait times are usually shorter with an appointment. Bring all documents listed above.

At the DMV, you will fill out Form DL 43 (process for California Driver License). The staff will check your documents, take your photograph, and have you sign the form. You will then take a vision test—you must be able to read the eye chart at the required distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test.

You will pay the license fee. A four-year license costs $39; an eight-year license costs $69. You choose which term you want. Pay by cash, debit card, or credit card. The DMV does not accept checks.

The DMV will give you a temporary paper license valid for 60 days. This allows you to drive legally while your plastic card is being made. Your permanent California license will arrive by mail in two to three weeks. If it does not arrive within four weeks, contact the DMV to report it missing.

What happens if your out-of-state license has expired

If your out-of-state license expired more than five years ago, you must take the written knowledge test before the DMV will issue a California license. You can study for this test using the California Driver Handbook, available free on the DMV website or in print at any DMV office.

If your out-of-state license expired fewer than five years ago, the DMV may waive the written test. Ask the staff when you arrive—the rule can vary based on your age and the specific state that issued your old license.

If you are under 18, you must take both the written test and a driving test, regardless of whether your out-of-state license is current. You will also need to complete a driver training course and hold a learner's permit for at least six months before taking the driving test.

Real ID and what it means for your new California license

When you explore for a California driver license, you can choose whether to get a standard license or a Real ID-compliant license. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID license or passport to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building.

Getting a Real ID license requires one additional document: proof of your legal name and date of birth. This can be a birth certificate, passport, or court order. If you already brought a document proving your legal name (such as a marriage certificate), that counts. The Real ID license costs the same as a standard license—$39 for four years or $69 for eight years.

If you do not get a Real ID license now, you can upgrade to one later by visiting the DMV again and bringing the required documents. You do not have to choose Real ID when ready, but you will eventually need one for air travel.

Fees and payment options

A California driver license costs $39 for a four-year term or $69 for an eight-year term. You choose the length when you explore. There are no additional fees for vision tests or photograph processing.

If you are over 70, the license costs $14 for a four-year term. If you are a veteran, you can request a veteran designation on your license at no extra cost.

The DMV accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices also accept checks, but call ahead to confirm. You cannot pay online or by mail when changing your license—payment must happen in person at the DMV office.

Timeline and what to expect after you explore

The entire process at the DMV usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how busy the office is. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready that is valid for 60 days. This temporary license allows you to drive, register a vehicle, and prove your identity while you wait for your permanent card.

Your permanent California driver license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. The envelope will come from the DMV's printing facility, not from the local office. Check your mail regularly. If your license does not arrive within four weeks, go back to the DMV or call 1-800-777-0133 to report it.

Once your permanent license arrives, the temporary paper license is no longer valid. Destroy it or keep it for your records—you do not need to return it to the DMV.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive on my out-of-state license while I wait for my California license to arrive?

Yes. The temporary paper license the DMV gives you is valid for 60 days and allows you to drive legally. Your permanent card will arrive within two to three weeks, so you will have it before the temporary expires.

What if I do not have proof of California residency yet because I just moved?

You need a document dated within the last 62 days showing your name and California address. If you just moved and have not received a utility bill or lease yet, ask your landlord for a signed letter on their letterhead confirming your move-in date and address. Some DMV offices accept this, but call ahead to confirm your local office does.

Do I have to take a driving test to get a California license?

No, not if you are 18 or older and your out-of-state license is still valid. You only take a vision test. If you are under 18, you must take a written test and a driving test, and you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months first.

Can I make an appointment at the DMV or do I have to walk in?

You can do either. Appointments are available on dmv.ca.gov and usually have shorter wait times. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait one to two hours depending on the office and time of day. Weekday mornings are usually less busy than afternoons and weekends.

What if my name has changed since my out-of-state license was issued?

Bring a document proving the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will update your name on your California license. You do not need to do anything else—the name change is handled during your regular process.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.