Driving without a license in California?

Learning to drive in California (British citizen without a UK driving license)?

• Hi, I'm British. I'm 28 years old. I've never learned to drive (never needed to here in London due to good public transport). I'm moving to California in January. Not having a car is going to make it really difficult to get around. What steps would I need to take to get a California driving licence, including obtaining a driving permit, having lessons and having a test? Also how long will this take. Are there a minimum amount of time I need to have lessons for? Thanks

• Answer:

  How to apply for a driver license if you are over 18 If you are a visitor in California over 18 and have a valid driver license from your home state or country, you may drive in this state without getting a California driver license as long as your home state license remains valid. If you become a California resident, you must get a California driver license within 10 days. Residency is established by voting in a California election, paying resident tuition, filing for a homeowner’s property tax exemption, or any other privilege or benefit not ordinarily extended to nonresidents. To apply for an original driver license if you are over 18, you will need to do the following: •Visit a DMV office (make an Appointment(s) for faster service) • Complete application form DL 44 (An original DL 44 form must be submitted. Copies will not be accepted.) • Give a thumb print • Have your picture taken •Provide your social security number. It will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office. • Verify your birth date and legal presence If your current name no longer matches the name on your birth data/legal presence document, see “True Full Name” and “How to Change Your Name” for more information. •Provide your true full name •Pay the application fee •Pass a vision exam • Pass a traffic laws and sign test. There are 36 questions on the test. You have three chances to pass.(Sample Test) Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing DMV will not be administering written or audio exams after 4:30 p.m. You will then be issued a permit if you have never been licensed before. When you practice, you must have an accompanying adult who is 18 years of age or older, with a valid California license. This person must be close enough to you to take control of the vehicle if necessary. It is illegal for you to drive alone. Being over 18 you can schedule and take the driving test when you feel confident you will pass, and the number of lessons will vary on what practice time you manage, and how quickly you learn the basics of driving.