Driving in Los Angeles
Visitors to California who are over the age of 18 and have a valid driver’s license from the home country may drive in California without getting a California driver’s license, as long as the home country license remains valid. However, when purchasing a motor vehicle and auto insurance, most insurance companies require a valid California Driver’s license.
Obtaining a California Driver’s License
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website outlines the process of obtaining a California Driver’s License. The application process includes a written test and driving skills test administered by the DMV. The California Driver’s Handbook is an indispensible resource when preparing for these tests. Samples of written tests are also available online for reference.
Obtaining a California Identification Card
A California driver’s license is commonly used as an important form of identification. International students and scholars who do not drive are instead able to obtain a California Identification (ID) card. The DMV website offers detailed guidelines on obtaining an ID card.
Required Documents at the DMV
In order to verify the applicant’s birth date and legal status for a driver’s license or ID card application, the DMV requires the following documents:
- Valid passport
- I-94 card
- I-20/DS-2019
International Driving Permit
The State of California does not recognize an International Driving Permit (IDP) as a valid driver license. However, California does recognize a valid driver license that is issued by a foreign jurisdiction (country, state, territory) of which the license holder is a resident.
The IDP is only a translation of information contained on a person’s foreign driver license and is not required to operate a motor vehicle in California.
The IDP is also referred to as an International Driver License or International License.
Visiting the DMV
The DMV office located closest to the USC main campus:
3615 S. Hope St.
Los Angeles, CA 90007
(800) 777-0133
Office Hours and Customer Wait Time Information
DMV Office Map in Google Maps
OIS advises USC international students and scholars to visit this office not only because it is the office closest to campus, but also because they are familiar with assisting the USC international community.
To reduce the waiting time at the DMV office, OIS recommends making an appointment online.