How to Get a California Driver’s License as a Non-U.S. Citizen
If you're new to California and plan to drive, getting a valid driver’s license is an important step. Whether you’re here for school, work, or a longer stay, the process for non-U.S. citizens can be different—but it doesn’t have to be complicated.
This guide covers everything you need to know: license types, eligibility, documents, tests, and timelines. It’s designed to help you move through the process confidently and get on the road legally and safely.
TL;DR: What You Need to Know
Yes, you can get licensed as a non-U.S. citizen in California.
Three license types: REAL ID (Limited Term), Federal Non-Compliant, and AB 60.
Your immigration status determines eligibility.
Preparation is key: bring the right documents, study the rules, pass the tests.
You must apply in person with an appointment.
Even If...
You just arrived and your SEVIS record isn't active yet
You don't have a Social Security Number
You're here without legal status
...you still have a path to getting licensed. California has options designed to help residents drive safely—no matter their immigration background.
Understanding Your License Options
California doesn't have a one-size-fits-all driver's license. The state offers several types to accommodate residents with different immigration statuses. Each license grants the same driving privileges, but they differ in what they can be used for as a form of federal identification.
REAL ID (Limited Term)
Who It's For: Non-U.S. citizens with verified legal presence (e.g., students, workers)
Perks: Board domestic flights, enter federal facilities, serves as federal ID
Look: Grizzly bear and star insignia, marked "Limited Term"
Important: Expires when your legal presence documents expire
Federal Non-Compliant License
Who It's For: Legal residents who opt out of REAL ID documentation
Perks: Valid for driving and state ID purposes
Look: Similar to REAL ID but stamped "Federal Limits Apply"
Limitations: Can't be used for flights or federal buildings
AB 60 License
Who It's For: California residents who cannot provide proof of legal presence
Perks: Full driving privileges within California
Look: Distinct design marked "Federal Limits Apply"
Limitations: Not valid for federal ID or benefits
Know Your Status: Eligibility by Immigration Type
Your specific immigration status determines which license you qualify for. Here's the breakdown:
Legal Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)
Eligible for: Full-term REAL ID
Required Documents: Unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)
Process: Straightforward, as your status is permanent
Temporary Legal Status
Includes F-1/M-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, work visa holders, DACA recipients, and TPS beneficiaries.
Eligible for: Limited Term REAL ID
Students (F-1/M-1): Passport, visa, Form I-20, active SEVIS record
Exchange Visitors (J-1): Passport, J-1 visa, DS-2019
Work Visas: Passport, visa, I-797 Approval Notice
DACA/TPS: Valid EAD card or I-797 Approval Notice
Note: Legal presence verified through SAVE program. Apply before documents expire.
No Legal Status (AB 60 Eligible)
Primary Requirement: California residency, regardless of immigration status
Must Prove: Your identity and that you live in California
Identity Documents: Foreign passport, consular identification card
Residency Proof: Utility bills, rental agreements, bank statements
Essential Documents Checklist
Walking into the DMV unprepared wastes everyone's time. Here's your comprehensive checklist:
What Everyone Needs
Proof of identity (varies by license type)
Two documents proving California residency (utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements)
Social Security Number (or proof of ineligibility for non-U.S. citizens if you don't have one)
Application fee ($33-$45, depending on license type)
REAL ID Applicants Need
One document proving lawful presence (passport, green card, visa with I-94)
One document with your full SSN (Social Security card, W-2, paystub)
Two California residency documents
AB 60 / Federal Non-Compliant Applicants Need
Proof of identity (foreign passport, consular ID from DMV's approved document list)
Two California residency documents
Pro Tip: If any documents aren't in English, bring certified translations from a qualified translator.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow these steps for a smooth DMV experience:
Step 1: Prepare Before You Go
Complete the online Driver's License Application (eDL44) on the DMV website
Gather and organize all required documents
For international students: Wait at least 10 days after U.S. arrival before applying
Step 2: Schedule Your DMV Appointment
Appointments are mandatory for first-time applications
Book your appointment online through the DMV portal
Plan ahead—appointments can book weeks in advance
Step 3: DMV Visit Day
Complete these quick steps:
Document review: Staff verifies your paperwork
Vision test: Must meet 20/40 vision standard
Photo and thumbprint: For security
Step 4: Pass the Written Knowledge Test
Before you can get behind the wheel, you’ll need to pass a written knowledge test covering California traffic laws, signs, and safe driving practices.
You can take the exam in person at the DMV—available in more than 40 languages and typically offered until 4:30 p.m. In some cases, you may also be eligible to take it online.
You'll have up to three attempts to pass, with a seven-day wait between tries if needed. Reviewing the California Driver’s Handbook is essential—but pairing it with interactive tools can boost your confidence on test day.
Pro Tip: The written exam is included within some of our online drivers ed courses. You can check IDriveSafely.com to see if your state qualifies and if you're eligible to take the knowledge test as part of your course. It's a convenient way to prepare and test all in one place.
Step 5: Behind-the-Wheel Driving Test
After passing knowledge test, get instruction permit for practice.
What examiners watch for: Scanning mirrors/blind spots, speed management, safe following distance, clear signaling
Requirements: Registered/insured vehicle, accompanied by licensed adult 18+
Costs and Timeline Expectations
Application Fee: $33-$45 (covers knowledge and driving tests for 12 months)
After Passing:
Receive temporary license (valid 60 days)
Permanent license arrives by mail in 3-4 weeks
If no license after 60 days, check status on the DMV website
Limited Term License Holders: Must renew in person before expiration with updated legal presence documents.
Common Issues and Solutions
SAVE Verification Delays: If legal presence doesn't verify immediately, DMV initiates secondary review (takes several weeks). You'll get a form to check case status online.
SEVIS Status Problems: Student visa holders need "Active" SEVIS status. Contact your school's designated school official if there are issues.
Document Conflicts: Manual secondary review may be needed. Keep all DMV paperwork and follow up as instructed.
Insurance Requirements
California law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance:
$15,000 for injury/death to one person
$30,000 for injury/death to multiple people
$5,000 for property damage
Driving without insurance can lead to license suspension and heavy fines.
Final Tips for New Drivers
Embrace Defensive Driving: Anticipate hazards before they happen. Be aware of other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. Create enough space and time to react to unpredictable actions.
Language Support: If English isn't your first language, the DMV offers translation services and practice tests in multiple languages.
Continuous Learning: Even after getting your license, consider taking refresher courses to sharpen your defensive driving skills.
You Got This
Getting a California driver's license might feel overwhelming, but with proper preparation, it's completely manageable. You're not just passing a test—you're joining a community of responsible drivers committed to safety.
Remember: Your goal isn't perfection, it's demonstrating that you understand traffic laws and can drive defensively. Study hard, practice regularly, and approach your tests with confidence.
Updated 09/02/2025
