What you need to do to transfer your driver license to California

If you move to California from another state, you must get a California driver license within 10 days of establishing residency. You cannot legally drive on your out-of-state license once you become a California resident, even if that license has not expired. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) handles all transfers, and the process involves visiting a DMV office in person, bringing specific documents, and passing a vision test.

You do not need to take a written driving test or a behind-the-wheel test if your out-of-state license is valid and you are under 70 years old. However, you will pay a fee and your new California license will have a different number than your old one.

Key Takeaways

  • You must transfer your license within 10 days of moving to California, even if your out-of-state license is still valid.
  • Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of California residency (like a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number to the DMV.
  • You will pass a vision test but skip the written and driving tests if your out-of-state license is valid and you are under 70.
  • The DMV charges a fee for the license transfer, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at most offices.
  • Your new California license arrives by mail within two to three weeks; you can request a temporary paper license to drive while you wait.

Documents you must bring to the DMV

Bring your valid out-of-state driver license as your primary identification. You will also need proof of California residency dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and California address. A bank statement or credit card statement also works if it shows your current address.

You must also prove your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

If your name has changed since your out-of-state license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal change — bring the document that proves the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Steps to complete your transfer at the DMV

First, find your nearest DMV office on the California DMV website and check whether you need an appointment. Many DMV offices now require appointments, which you can book online. Walk-ins are accepted at some locations, but wait times can be several hours.

When you arrive, take a number and wait to be called. Tell the DMV staff member that you are transferring your license from another state. They will ask you to fill out Form DL 43 (process for California Driver License), which takes about five minutes. You will answer questions about your driving history, any medical conditions, and whether you have been convicted of certain crimes.

After you complete the form, you will go to the vision station and read letters on a chart from about 20 feet away. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test. You do not need to pass a written test or a driving test. Finally, you will pay the fee — currently $36 for a standard license valid for five years — and have your photo taken.

Timeline and what to expect after you explore

The DMV will mail your new California license to the address you provided, usually within two to three weeks. During that time, you can drive on your out-of-state license only if you also have the temporary paper license the DMV gives you at the counter. Keep both documents with you while driving.

If you need to drive before your new license arrives and did not receive a temporary paper license, return to the DMV and ask for one. Some offices issue them automatically; others issue them only if you request them.

Your new California license will have a different number than your old one. Write down your new number once it arrives, because you will need it for insurance, vehicle registration, and other purposes.

Special situations: age 70 and older, or suspended licenses

If you are 70 or older, you must take a written test in addition to the vision test. The written test covers California traffic laws and road signs. You can study using the California Driver Handbook, available free on the DMV website or in print at any DMV office. You do not need to take a behind-the-wheel test.

If your out-of-state license is suspended, revoked, or expired, you cannot transfer it. Instead, you must take the full written and behind-the-wheel driving test as if you were a new driver. Contact the DMV before you visit to understand what tests you will need and what documents to bring.

If you have an out-of-state commercial driver license (CDL), you cannot straightforward transfer it to California. You must take California's CDL written test and a behind-the-wheel test. The process is more complex and takes longer than a standard transfer.

Fees and payment methods

The standard fee for a five-year California driver license is $36. If you want a Real ID-compliant license — which you will need to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 2025 — the fee is $39. The difference covers the extra security features and verification process.

The DMV accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at most offices. Some offices have ATMs on-site if you need cash. If you pay by check, write it to "State of California."

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, if you have the temporary paper license the DMV gave you at the counter. You must carry both your out-of-state license and the temporary paper license together. If you did not receive a temporary license, return to the DMV and request one before you drive.

What if I moved to California but have not updated my address on my out-of-state license?

You still must transfer your license within 10 days of establishing residency. Bring proof of your California address (like a lease or utility bill) to show the DMV when you explore, even if your out-of-state license still shows your old address.

Do I need to take a driving test if my out-of-state license is valid?

No, if you are under 70 and your out-of-state license is valid and not suspended. You will take only a vision test. If you are 70 or older, you must also take a written test about California traffic laws.

What happens if I drive on my out-of-state license after 10 days in California?

You can be cited for driving with an invalid license, which is a traffic violation. It can result in a fine and a point on your driving record. Transfer your license within the 10-day window to avoid this.

Can I transfer my license online or by mail?

No. You must visit a DMV office in person because you need to pass a vision test and have your photo taken. The DMV does not process license transfers by mail or online.