This guide probably doesn't apply exactly if you are trying to get a license in other states of the USA. It is heavily skewed towards that of California.
This is what I did in my initial days here in California:
Getting a license in California is fairly easy here in San Francisco and actually a lot less hassle than in Pennsylvenia. There is no medical examination required, no proof of residence required. So essentially, you can get your permit/driving license on the 1st day you are here if need be.
Here are the steps in general (for learners permit/driving license):
1. Print your I-94 for registration of learners permit. The federal government done away with the white slip of paper call I-94 which was handed to you when you first enter the country and taken back each time you leave. But they have since do away with that and you basically need to go http://www.cbp.gov/i94 to print it out. And you need this in case you get pulled over by the police.
2. Get your SSN from an SSN office in the USA. This will take a few weeks and probably proof of residence etc.
3. Find the nearest DMV (you can do so by googling for DMV San Mateo, DMV Daly City, DMV Santa Clara). I did this on google maps.
3. Study for your Written Test. Trust me, you really need to read this. Do you know if you can actually cross the bicycle lane while driving/turning? Which freezes faster? Intersection or bridges? Better start studying if you want that learners permit on first try.
http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/
Common Questions
1. I have a driving license in Singapore and have been driving for ten years, do I need to take the drivers test all over again (including written + behind the wheel?)
- Sadly, this is not recognised. So yes, you have to take the test all over again - as if you do not know how to drive.
2. I have an out of state license (e.g. PA, NY etc) which has expire, do I actually need to sit for the test all over again?
- California state allows non out of State Drivers License (eventhough they have expired) to be exchanged for a California license. However, you are expected to take the written test before the license will be issued to you.
3. Do I need an IDP (International Drivers Permit) to drive in the USA?
No you do not. Not for the USA.
4. So what should I get a california driver's license?
If you are interested to buy a car, or get insurance for your car (its cheaper if you have a california license).
5. What proof of identity do I need to buy a car in California?
All you need is your checkbook and a valid california drivers license. Was told that you could actually register a car even if its just a drivers permit.
This is what I did in my initial days here in California:
Getting a license in California is fairly easy here in San Francisco and actually a lot less hassle than in Pennsylvenia. There is no medical examination required, no proof of residence required. So essentially, you can get your permit/driving license on the 1st day you are here if need be.
Here are the steps in general (for learners permit/driving license):
1. Print your I-94 for registration of learners permit. The federal government done away with the white slip of paper call I-94 which was handed to you when you first enter the country and taken back each time you leave. But they have since do away with that and you basically need to go http://www.cbp.gov/i94 to print it out. And you need this in case you get pulled over by the police.
2. Get your SSN from an SSN office in the USA. This will take a few weeks and probably proof of residence etc.
3. Find the nearest DMV (you can do so by googling for DMV San Mateo, DMV Daly City, DMV Santa Clara). I did this on google maps.
3. Study for your Written Test. Trust me, you really need to read this. Do you know if you can actually cross the bicycle lane while driving/turning? Which freezes faster? Intersection or bridges? Better start studying if you want that learners permit on first try.
http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/
Common Questions
1. I have a driving license in Singapore and have been driving for ten years, do I need to take the drivers test all over again (including written + behind the wheel?)
- Sadly, this is not recognised. So yes, you have to take the test all over again - as if you do not know how to drive.
2. I have an out of state license (e.g. PA, NY etc) which has expire, do I actually need to sit for the test all over again?
- California state allows non out of State Drivers License (eventhough they have expired) to be exchanged for a California license. However, you are expected to take the written test before the license will be issued to you.
3. Do I need an IDP (International Drivers Permit) to drive in the USA?
No you do not. Not for the USA.
4. So what should I get a california driver's license?
If you are interested to buy a car, or get insurance for your car (its cheaper if you have a california license).
5. What proof of identity do I need to buy a car in California?
All you need is your checkbook and a valid california drivers license. Was told that you could actually register a car even if its just a drivers permit.
