1. California DMV
  2. DMV Services and Procedures
  3. Transferring an Out-of-State Driver's License to California

Transferring an Out-of-State Driver's License to California

Learn how to transfer your out-of-state driver's license to California, including what documents you need, fees, and the steps you will need to take to complete the process.

Transferring an Out-of-State Driver's License to California

Are you looking to transfer an out-of-state driver's license to California? The process of transferring a driver's license from one state to another can be complicated and time consuming. Fortunately, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides a comprehensive guide to help make the process as simple and straightforward as possible. In this article, we will provide an overview of the steps involved in transferring an out-of-state driver's license to California, along with helpful tips and advice. So, if you're ready to get started, read on!The first step in transferring your out-of-state driver's license to California is to gather the necessary documents.

You will need to provide proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of insurance. You must also have a valid out-of-state driver's license. Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you will need to visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. At the DMV office, you will be required to fill out an application for a new California driver's license.

The application must be signed and dated before it can be processed. Once the application has been completed, you will be required to pay the appropriate fees. Fees vary by state, but typically range from $25-$50. After the application and fees have been submitted, you will then be asked to take a written test and/or a driving test. The written test covers basic knowledge of traffic laws and safe driving practices. The driving test is designed to assess your ability to operate a motor vehicle safely and competently. Once you have successfully passed the written test and/or driving test, you will then be issued a new California driver's license.

Your new license will be valid for up to five years.

Taking Written & Driving Tests

After the application and fees have been submitted, you will then be asked to take a written test and/or a driving test. The written test is a multiple-choice exam that is designed to assess your understanding of California's traffic laws. The test typically takes about 30 minutes and consists of questions about road signs, road rules, and safe driving practices. The driving test is a practical assessment of your ability to safely and correctly operate a vehicle. The test typically takes 15 minutes and is conducted in an area determined by the DMV.

During the test, you will be asked to demonstrate basic driving skills such as starting, stopping, turning, and parallel parking. You must pass both the written and driving tests in order to successfully transfer your out-of-state driver's license to California. If you fail either of the tests, you may retake them after a certain period of time has passed.

Submitting Fees

Once the application has been completed, you will be required to pay the appropriate fees. Fees vary by state, but typically range from $25-$50. The exact fee that you need to pay will depend on your state of residence and which license type you are transferring.

Be sure to check with your local DMV for more information regarding specific fees. In California, the fee for transferring an out-of-state license is $35. In addition to the transfer fee, you may also be required to pay a late fee if your license has expired or is close to expiring. This fee can range from $12-$25, depending on how long it has been since your license expired. When submitting payment, make sure to bring accepted forms of payment, which may include cash, check, credit card, or money order. Additionally, some states may accept online payments via credit card.

Be sure to check with your local DMV for more information about accepted forms of payment.

Receiving New Driver’s License

Once you have successfully passed the written test and/or driving test, you will then be issued a new California driver’s license. The new license will be valid for up to five years and will be printed with your photograph and other identifying information. The license will also come with an expiration date, which is listed on the front of the card. After you receive your license, you will need to keep it in a safe place and always carry it with you when you are driving. In order to keep your license up-to-date, you will need to renew it before the expiration date.

You can do this either online or in person at a local DMV office. When renewing, you will need to provide proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number. Depending on your age, you may also need to take a written test or a vision test in order to receive a new license.

Gathering Necessary Documents

When transferring your out-of-state driver’s license to California, you will need to provide proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of insurance, and a valid out-of-state driver’s license. When gathering the documents, make sure that they are all up-to-date and valid. To prove your identity, you will need one of the following documents:
  • A valid U.S.

    passport or other U.S. government-issued photo ID

  • A valid foreign passport with an I-94 or visa
  • A valid military ID card
To prove your residency, you will need two of the following documents:
  • A rental agreement
  • A utility bill
  • A bank statement
  • A paycheck or pay stub
  • A voter registration card
To prove your insurance, you will need one of the following documents:
  • Proof of insurance from a licensed carrier in California
  • Proof of financial responsibility from a licensed carrier in California

Filling Out Application

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you will need to visit your local DMV office and fill out an application for a new California driver’s license. This application will ask for your name, address, date of birth, and other personal information. You may also be asked to provide your Social Security number, so make sure you have it with you. You will also need to provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number.

Acceptable forms of identification include a valid driver's license or state-issued ID card from another state, a passport, birth certificate, or other government-issued documents. You may also need to provide proof of residency in California. This can include a utility bill, mortgage statement, rental agreement, or other documents that show your current address in California. Once you have filled out the application, you will be asked to take a vision test. If you pass the vision test, you will be required to take a written knowledge test. This test includes questions about traffic laws and safe driving practices. If you pass both the vision and knowledge tests, you will be given a temporary driver's license.

Your permanent driver's license will arrive in the mail within 15 days. Transferring your out-of-state driver’s license to California is relatively easy, and can be done in a few simple steps. Make sure you have all the necessary documents, submit the required fees, and pass any tests that may be necessary. Once you have completed these steps, you will be able to receive your new California driver’s license.