You must apply in person for a driver license at any DMV office. If you move to California, you’ll need to get a CA drivers license within 10 days of becoming a resident. If you're a new driver or from another country, you'll be issued a learner's permit first.

New Driver License Documentation and Fees

You will need the following to get a new drivers license:

• Application form DL 44, available at the DMV. This form isn't downloadable from the DMV website.
• Your Social Security Number (the DMV will verify the number with the Social Security Administration).
• Proof of birth and citizenship or legal presence. Check with the DMV for a full list of acceptable documents.
• Your full true name; it should match your proof of identity documents, such as birth certificate or passport.
• Fee of $31. No credit cards.

Drivers License Testing

In addition to the documentation, the CA DMV requires:

• A thumbprint.
• A vision exam.
• A written drivers license test.

Drivers License Appointments

Make an appointment to get your new drivers license by phone or through their online system. Appointments may not be made after 4:30 p.m. to allow time for testing before the office closes. Also note that DMV offices may be subject to budgetary closures on certain days; make sure your office will be open before you go in, if you have no appointment.

Practice the written test before you go in, or you’ll be forced to return another time and try again. There are some free practice test questions on the CA DMV Web site. You can also purchase practice tests with California material on them from several online drivers ed sites; these have more questions than the free tests. Practice, as always, makes perfect, and is especially important if you are not great at test-taking.

Road Testing

If you have a driver license from another state, your driving (road) test may be waived.

Those with a drivers license from another country must take the road test; no waiting period required, but you do need a road test appointment.

If you have never had a license before, the DMV issues you a learners permit and requires you to practice with another licensed adult driver with you at all times. Fifty hours of practice is recommended for first-time drivers, but there is no set practice requirement for adult drivers.

To take the behind the wheel or road test:

• Make an appointment online or by phone.
• Bring your California proof of insurance with you.

Before you begin driving with your permit or with your new license, make sure your car insurance is up to date. It’s a good time to contact your insurer and get a new quote.

 Once you pass the road test, the DMV issues you a 60-day license to tide you over until the driver license gets to you in the mail.

Failing the Driver License Road Test

You have to wait two weeks to re-take the test, and you get three tries.