Situation #2: “I have a DL issued by another state.”
Here’s how you apply for a California DL if you already have a valid DL that was issued by another state:
- Complete a Driver’s License or Identification (DL/ID) card application.
- Visit a DMV office, where you will:
- Provide your social security number (SSN).
- Prove your identity with an acceptable identity document (original or certified copy) for either a Federal Non-Compliant or REAL ID Compliant DL/ID Card. Your current name needs to match the name on the identity document (see the FAQs below for more information).
- Present acceptable residency documents (if you have never had a California DL/ID).
- Pay the nonrefundable application fee(application and fee valid for 12 months).
- Have your thumbprint scanned.
- Pass a vision exam.
- Have your photo taken.
- Pass the knowledge test(s). You are allowed three attempts to pass each of the required knowledge tests. If you fail the same test three times, your application is no longer valid and you will need to reapply. To allow for sufficient testing time, we do not administer knowledge tests within 30 minutes of closing.