Can You Drive in California With a Foreign License?

If you’re an international tourist planning a trip to the United States, you may be wondering if you can drive in California with a foreign license. While the rules may differ slightly by state, California is lenient about its driving requirements for international tourists.

But you should still be aware of some important things, especially if you plan to attend school in the state or establish residence there.

Here’s what you need to know about driving in California with a foreign license, including how long your driver’s license is valid there, California car insurance requirements, and more.

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Driving in California with a foreign license

Rules about driving with a foreign license in California vary a bit depending on your age at the time of your visit. Generally, there’s more flexibility for international tourists older than 18. In this case, your foreign driver’s license will be valid in California, provided you meet these requirements:

• You have a valid license from your home country.

• Your license matches the vehicle you plan to drive during your visit (such as your personal driver’s license versus commercial driver’s license).^[1]

The rules are slightly different if you’re a 16- or 17-year-old international tourist. In this case, your license will only be valid in California for 10 days following your entry into the state, unless you meet these conditions:^[2]

• You have a valid license from your home country.

• You have a non-resident minor’s certificate issued by the California DMV.

If you plan on moving to California temporarily or permanently, you’ll need to apply for a California driver’s license to be roadworthy. Non-U.S. citizens can apply, though the state requires you to provide proof of lawful presence, such as a permanent residency card or I-94.^[3]

You’ll also need two documents to prove state residency, which could include a rental agreement, mortgage statement, utility bill, or another valid document. Refer to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Real ID Checklist for more information about documentation.

How long can you use a foreign license in California?

If you’re vacationing in California, you can likely use your foreign driver’s license for the duration of your visit. Other rules apply when you’re attending school or becoming a resident of the state. Here are some cases and time frames for using a foreign license, depending on your situation:

• International tourists: International tourists typically travel to the United States with a B-2 visa, which is valid for up to six months. You can extend it in six-month increments and generally drive for up to one year with a B-2 visa in the U.S.

• Business travelers: International business travelers typically travel to the U.S. with a B-1 visa, which is valid for up to six months. You can extend it in six-month increments and generally drive for up to one year in the U.S.^[4]

• Students: Students entering the U.S. on an F, J, or M visa should contact their international student office or the California DMV for more information on timing and licensing requirements.^[5]

• New residents: If you establish residency in California, you’ll need to get a California driver’s license within 10 days to remain roadworthy.

Steps to drive legally in California with a foreign license

While your foreign license won’t need to be in English under California law, rental car companies may require it. So it makes sense to get an official copy in English if you plan on renting a car. Contact the California DMV before traveling for more information on how to get an official copy of your license in English.

Some states require visitors to get an International Driving Permit (IDP) before traveling, but California isn’t one of them.^[6] That said, rental car companies may require an IDP from your home country before you can rent a car.

If you’re a student or a new resident, here’s the process for getting a California driver’s license:

1. Schedule and pass the driving and knowledge tests.

2. Gather appropriate documentation, including proof of financial responsibility (insurance), your Social Security number, passport, immigration document, visa, and valid I-94.

3. Complete the driver’s license application.

4. Visit your local DMV branch and provide:

   • Social Security number

   • Proof of identity

   • Proof of residency

   • Application fee

   • Thumbprint

You’ll also need to pass a vision test and have your photo taken at the DMV.^[7]

Car insurance requirements for foreign drivers in California

California requires drivers to purchase a minimum amount of car insurance, including these coverages:^[8]

• 

  Bodily injury liability insurance

  $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident

• 

  Property damage liability insurance

  $15,000

If you’re attending college in California or establishing residency, you’ll need to prove you meet California’s minimum car insurance requirements before taking your driving test. Some larger car insurance companies will allow you to purchase a policy with a valid foreign driver’s license or IDP. Insurers typically issue policies in six- or 12-month increments.

International tourists and business travelers can generally get car insurance through a rental car company. But before renting a car, make sure the company you’re considering offers California’s required coverages.

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Renting a car in California with a foreign license

You can typically rent a car in California with a valid foreign driver’s license. Depending on the rental company, you may need to have your driver’s license translated into English by a professional translator. In some cases, companies may require you to get an IDP from your home country before you can rent a car.

Here are a few things to consider when renting a car in California:

• Car insurance coverage: California requires drivers to meet its coverage minimums for bodily injury and property damage liability insurance. You’ll want to make sure your rental car company has these coverage options.

• Vehicle type: Consider your vehicle preferences. For example, decide if you want a standard but dependable car or a luxury vehicle.

• Rental terms: Before proceeding, familiarize yourself with the company’s car rental terms. These terms detail everything from return requirements to options for emergency roadside assistance.

Tips for safe driving in California as a foreign driver

Safe driving tips in California are likely similar to those of your home country. Here’s what to know if you want to stay safe on the road during your visit to California:

• 

  Know road signs and traffic signals

  Familiarize yourself with local road signs and be aware of traffic signals while driving.

• 

  Be mindful of posted speed limits

  Follow posted speed limits to reduce your risk of car accidents.

• 

  Know the rules of the road

  Understand that the rules of the road may differ slightly from those of your home country, and learn about them before traveling.

• 

  Avoid using your cell phone

  Don’t use your cell phone while driving.

Driving in California with a foreign license FAQs