Hello! This is Nami from Los Angeles.
Today, I’m going to share my experience of getting a driver’s license in California! If you’re planning a long-term stay in the U.S. — especially in California — this post will guide you through everything you need to know about the written test portion of the process.
You Must Get a License Within 10 Days of Arrival!?
Surprisingly, California law requires you to obtain a driver’s license within 10 days of entering the U.S.
If you’re thinking, “Wait, 10 days? That’s way too fast!” — don’t worry. It often takes time to gather all the necessary documents, and in practice, some flexibility is commonly allowed. However, delaying too long can lead to issues, so it’s best to complete the process as early as possible.
The License Process in California
To get a driver’s license in California, you must pass two tests:
- The written test
- The driving test
This post will focus on the written test. Here’s the basic flow:
- Study for the test
- Go to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) with your documents
- Take the written test
- Receive a learner’s permit if you pass
Let’s go step-by-step!
1. Study for the Written Test
The written test consists of multiple-choice questions (3 options each). It’s easier than the Japanese version, but the traffic rules and signs differ between the U.S. and Japan, so you should definitely study in advance.
I skimmed through the official Driver Handbook, and also used YouTube videos and sample questions to prepare. Be sure to study American road signs in particular—they’re quite different!
👉 Tip: Taking practice tests ahead of time really helps you get a feel for the actual exam.
2. Go to the DMV with Required Documents
Here’s what you need to bring:
- Passport (including visa page)
- SSN (Social Security Number)
- Proof of address (in my case, SSN alone was accepted)
- I-94 (entry record)
- DS-2019 (depends on visa type)
- Application fee: $45 (fees may vary, so check in advance)
💡 Tip: Go early in the morning! The DMV gets extremely crowded in the afternoon.
I went around noon due to work and ended up waiting 40–50 minutes outside and another 20 minutes inside.
Once your turn comes, you’ll submit your documents at the counter and receive a queue number. When called, go to your assigned booth for document review, fingerprinting, and a vision test. You’ll also pay the fee at this time.
You’ll be asked if you want a REAL ID. Say yes — without a REAL ID, you won’t be able to use your license as valid ID for domestic flights starting May 7 of this year.
Before the test, you’ll receive paperwork — be sure to double-check that your name and address are correct! Pay special attention to apartment numbers and avoid simple typos like confusing 1 with 7.
Then you’ll have your photo taken. Unlike in Japan, you don’t have to look serious — most people smile!
3. Take the Written Test
Time for the test! You can take it in Japanese, but I heard the translation is awkward and unnatural, so I chose to take it in English.
The test only took about 15 minutes, and I passed with no problems 😊
4. If You Pass, You’ll Get a Learner’s Permit
Once you pass, head to the booth near the testing area to receive your learner’s permit.
You’ll be asked to sign a few forms, and that’s it — you’re done!
Keep your permit with you at all times until your official license arrives (after passing the driving test).
In the U.S., licenses are not issued on the same day like in Japan — it usually takes 4 to 6 weeks, and in some cases, even over 2 months. Be extra careful not to lose your permit during that time!
Summary
Today, I shared my experience taking the California written driver’s test. How are you preparing for your test?
Let me know in the comments!
In the next article, I’ll walk you through the driving test process — stay tuned!
See you next time 😊