Table Of Contents
- Driving in California with an Out-of-State Driver’s License
- Requirements for Driving with an Out-of-State License in California
- Age Restrictions
- Obtaining a California Driver’s License for New Residents
- Establishing Residency for a Driver’s License
- Mandatory Auto Insurance Coverage for California Drivers
- Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
Driving in California with an Out-of-State Driver’s License
According to BCD, if you hold a driver’s license from another state and plan to visit or relocate to California, it’s important to understand the local laws regarding out-of-state licenses. Each state has its regulations, and knowing California’s rules will help you drive without legal concerns [1].
In California, an out-of-state driver’s license is a valid document in another state. The law considers your driver’s license valid if it allows you in your state to drive the vehicle you will drive in California. The document must also be up-to-date. If caught using a driver’s license from another state to drive a car not covered under your license, you could face charges for driving without a valid license. It is a severe offense that could result in time in jail and a hefty court fine
Requirements for Driving with an Out-of-State License in California
- You must hold a valid and current driver’s license from your state of residence.
- The license must be appropriate for the type of vehicle you are driving (e.g., car, motorcycle, truck).
Age Restrictions
Drivers 18 or older: Can drive in California without time restrictions as long as they are non-residents and their out-of-state license is valid.
Drivers aged 16 or 17: Can drive in California for only 10 days unless:
- They have a valid driver’s license from their state of residence.
- They possess a non-resident minor certificate from the California DMV.
- They have filed proof of financial responsibility with the DMV, showing their ability to cover damages or injuries in an accident.
Understanding and following these guidelines will ensure you can drive legally and safely in California with an out-of-state driver’s license.
Obtaining a California Driver’s License for New Residents
If you move to California and wish to drive, you must apply for a license from the California DMV:
- Within 10 days of becoming a California resident, or
- Immediately if driving is part of your employment, such as for delivery services or rideshare companies like Lyft or Uber.
Driving to and from work does not count as driving as part of employment.
Failing to apply for a California license within 10 days while continuing to drive can result in charges for “driving without a license” under Vehicle Code 12500 VC.
Establishing Residency for a Driver’s License
According to SCLG, you are considered a resident for obtaining a driver’s license if you move to California with the intention of staying [2].
You are definitively considered a California resident if you:
- Register to vote,
- Pay resident tuition,
- File for a homeowner’s property tax exemption, or
- Obtain any other privilege or benefit typically reserved for residents.
Understanding these requirements ensures compliance and helps avoid legal issues when driving in California.
Mandatory Auto Insurance Coverage for California Drivers
California drivers are required to carry the following minimum auto insurance coverage:
Minimum Bodily Injury Liability Limits:
- $15,000 for the death or injury of any one person. If one person is injured in an accident, the coverage pays up to $15,000.
- $30,000 total for the death or injury of more than one person in any one accident. If two or more people are injured, the coverage pays up to $30,000, which will be shared among the injured parties.
This coverage applies to injuries that you cause to someone else.
Minimum Property Damage Liability Limits:
- $5,000 for damage to the property of others. This covers damage you cause to another person’s car or to objects and structures your car may hit.
Having these minimum coverage limits ensures that you meet California’s legal requirements and helps protect you financially in the event of an accident.
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See all related personal injury and accident lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.
Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers
The Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP is an experienced team of trial lawyers that focuses on the representation of plaintiffs in lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new legal challenges in all 50 states.
If you or a loved one was involved with these matters, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.
References:
1. https://www.bakersfieldcriminaldefense.com/dui/out-of-state-driver-s-license
2. https://www.shouselaw.com/ca/blog/driving-in-california-with-an-out-of-state-drivers-license/