Visitors over 18 years old with a valid driver’s license from their home state or country may drive in California without getting a California driver’s license as long as their home state license remains valid.
However foreign driver’s licenses are only valid for 10 days for non-tourists and international driving permits are not recognized in California.
Visiting California With a Foreign License
Generally speaking visitors who are over 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license from their home state or country are allowed to drive in California without getting a California driver’s license as long as their home state license remains valid.
So if you plan to visit California make sure your license is up to date and valid before you come.
Driving in California With a Foreign License
If your home state license is still valid you can legally drive in California for as long as you’re visiting provided that you also have your license with you at all times.
However it’s important to note that foreign driver’s licenses are only valid for 10 days for non-tourists.
So if you plan to stay in California for longer than 10 days and you have a foreign license you’ll need to get a California driver’s license.
Obtaining a California Driver’s License
If you do need to obtain a California driver’s license you’ll need to visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.
You’ll also need to pass both a written and a driving test.
You may also need to provide proof of your identity residency and legal presence in the United States.
International Driving Permits
It’s important to note that international driving permits are not recognized in California and are not accepted as a valid form of identification or proof of insurance.
So if you’re travelling to California from a foreign country and plan to drive while you’re here make sure you have a valid driver’s license from your home state or country.
California Vehicle Registration
If you’re planning to drive a vehicle in California you’ll also need to make sure the vehicle is registered in California.
You’ll need to provide proof of ownership such as the vehicle’s registration or title and you may need to provide proof of California liability insurance.
California Insurance Requirements
California has some of the strictest insurance requirements in the United States.
Drivers must have liability insurance that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements which are 15/30/5.
In addition all vehicles must be covered by uninsured motorist coverage and underinsured motorist coverage of at least 15/30/5.
California Traffic Laws
It’s also important to familiarize yourself with California’s traffic laws before driving in the state.
Be sure to obey all posted speed limits signal when turning and yield to pedestrians.
You should also remember that California has strict laws regarding the use of cell phones and other electronic devices while driving.
Other Important Information
Finally it’s important to remember that if you’re driving in California with a foreign license you may be asked to provide proof of insurance at any time.
It’s also a good idea to carry your home state license with you in case you’re stopped by law enforcement.
Conclusion
As long as you have a valid driver’s license from your home state or country and you comply with California’s insurance requirements and traffic laws you’ll be able to legally drive in California without getting a California driver’s license.
Just remember that foreign driver’s licenses are only valid for 10 days for non-tourists and international driving permits are not recognized in California.