How to Convert Your International Driver’s License to a California License
How to Convert Your International Driver’s License to a California License
Moving to California and need to drive? If you hold an international driver’s license, you’ll need to convert it to a California driver’s license. The DMV requires you to start this process within 10 days of becoming a California resident.
This guide covers what triggers the need to switch, the documents you’ll need, and the exact steps to complete the process—plus how we can help make your DMV road test stress-free.
What Triggers the Need to Convert Your International License
You are considered a California resident for driver licensing purposes if you do any of the following (CA Vehicle Code §12505):
- Register to vote in California
- Reside in California for 6+ months within 12 months
- Accept a job in California
- Rent or lease property in California
- Claim residency-based benefits (e.g., in-state tuition, homeowner’s property-tax exemption)
- Enroll your children in California schools
Once you establish residency, you must obtain a California driver’s license within 10 days.
For more details on test-day rules, see:
What Happens if Your Car Has a Mechanical Failure During the DMV Drive Test?
Required Documents to Convert / Transfer Your International License
Bring original documents (not photocopies) to your DMV appointment.
1) International Driver’s License
- Valid and unexpired
2) Proof of Identity (one):
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- Permanent Resident Card (green card)
3) Proof of California Residency:
- REAL ID: two proofs (e.g., utility bill, lease, bank statement, government mail)
- Standard (non-REAL ID): typically one proof accepted — check the current DMV list
4) Social Security Number (if eligible):
- Social Security card or W-2 showing full SSN
- If ineligible: proof of ineligibility and immigration documentation
5) Proof of Legal Presence:
- Visa, Green Card, I-20 (student), DS-2019 (exchange visitor), or I-94 record
6) DL/ID Application
- Start online or complete at the DMV
Process to Convert an International License
- Confirm residency status (see “Triggers” above).
- Start your application on the DMV website.
- Book a DMV appointment and gather documents.
- At the DMV, you will:
- Submit documents
- Pay the application fee (check current fee; ~mid-$40s recently)
- Provide thumbprints and photo
- Pass a vision test
- Pass the written knowledge test (based on the California Driver Handbook)
- Schedule and take the behind-the-wheel driving test.
- Arrive with an insured, DMV-approved rental car
- Have a licensed accompanying driver
- If using a rental: your name must be on the contract and the contract must not exclude drive tests
- Receive a temporary paper license (generally 60–90 days).
- Your official license arrives by mail.
Curious what examiners score? Read:
California DMV Driving Test Scoring Criteria (San Francisco Bay Area Guide)
Important Notes (Updated)
- Knowledge test retakes: You have 3 attempts per application.
- Minors (<18): data-preserve-html-node="true" must wait 7 days to retake (not counting the day of failure).
- Adults (18+): no DMV-mandated wait; retakes depend on office availability/appointments.
- Driving test retakes: All applicants must wait 14 days to retake and a retest fee applies.
- Documents: Originals or certified copies only.
- REAL ID: Optional now, but required for U.S. domestic flights and certain federal facilities starting May 7, 2025.
Concerned about failure patterns by location? Start here:
San Jose DMV Fail Rate Hits 40% — Don’t Let Vehicle Issues Be the Reason You Fail
Quick Document Checklist
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Quick Document Checklist
| Document Type | Examples / Notes |
|---|---|
| International Driver's License | Valid, unexpired |
| Proof of Identity | Passport, Birth Certificate, Green Card |
| Residency Proofs | REAL ID: 2 proofs; Standard: 1 proof (check DMV list) |
| Social Security Number | SS card, W-2, or proof of ineligibility |
| Legal Presence | Visa, Green Card, I-20, DS-2019, I-94 |
| DL/ID Application | Online or at DMV |
Need a DMV-Approved Car for Your Test?
One of the biggest challenges for international drivers is the behind-the-wheel test. The DMV requires:
- A safe, insured, DMV-approved vehicle
- A licensed accompanying driver
If you don’t have access to a car that meets DMV standards, we’ve got you covered.
At DMVRentalCar.com, we provide DMV-approved rental cars for international drivers, licensed drivers, and optional warm-up lessons so you can feel confident on test day.
Book your DMV test car rental today →
Final Thoughts
Converting your international license to a California driver’s license can feel overwhelming, but with the right documents and preparation, you’ll be on the road legally in no time.
And when it comes time for your driving test, don’t risk failing because of car issues—rent a DMV-approved vehicle with us and focus only on your driving.
Explore more guides on our DMV Test Blog.
Related Posts
- What Happens if Your Car Has a Mechanical Failure During the DMV Drive Test?
- California DMV Driving Test Scoring Criteria (San Francisco Bay Area Guide)
- San Jose DMV Fail Rate Hits 40% — Don’t Let Vehicle Issues Be the Reason You Fail
Need a DMV-approved rental car for international drivers?
Book your DMV test car rental →
