All an F-1 or J-1 students or scholars must apply for a California driver's license if you plan to drive a car. Please note that your home country's valid driver's license is acceptable only if you are on a temporary visitor/tourist status.
How to Apply for a Driver's License
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provide an online checklist that will help you apply for your driver's license. If you do not have a Social Security Number, you must present your legal presence documents (I-20 or DS-2019, passport & I-94) as well as sign on the application form that you are not eligible for a Social Security Number.
What to Bring to the DMV
All first-time driver license applicants and/or identification card applicants must present proof of California residency in addition to meeting all other existing DL/ID card requirements. To avoid wasted time at the DMV, please bring with you in addition to your passport and visa 2 acceptable proofs of California residency.
What To Expect
At the DMV you will:
- Fill out a Driver's Identification Card Application (DL44)
- Provide thumbprint
- Take a picture
- Take a vision test
- Take the written test on rules and regulations
To prepare for the written test, you may download the California Driver's Handbook. The handbook is available in the following languages: Chinese, Korean, Spanish, Russian, Tagalog and Vietnamese.
Note: We recommend making an appointment ahead of time to avoid a lengthy wait.
Nearby DMV Offices
Culver City
11400 Washington Blvd.
Los Angeles, 90066
(800) 777-0133
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 8am-5pm
Wednesday: 9am-5pm
Visit the Culver City DMV Office.
Inglewood
621 N. La Brea Ave.
Inglewood, 90303
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 8am-5pm
Wednesday: 9am-5pm
Visit the Inglewood DMV Office.