Driver's License
The State of California’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does not recognize international drivers’ licenses.
The State of California, however, does recognize your national driver license as long as it is valid and translated
Driving in California
If driving is the best option for you, here are some helpful tips and information to make your drive smooth and safe:
- California and San Diego Driving Facts (PDF)
- California Department of Motor Vehicles
- City of San Diego Parking Tips (PDF)
- Campus Parking Information
- Guide to Fines for Cellphone Usage While Driving
The State of California’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) does not recognize international drivers’ licenses. The State of California, however, does recognize your national driver license as long as it is valid and translated to English. Although the law is ambiguous when dealing with international visitors, we recommend that you get a California driver’s license if you are in California over 2 months. Please contact the California DMV if you have any questions about the process.
Driver's License Application Process
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) requires a written test and a road test. No appointment is necessary for the written test, but an appointment and a car are required for the road test. The DMV is often crowded, so allow ample time to complete the process. Appointments are also available online through DMV’s online services.
Temporary permits can be renewed until the license is received.
International Students: A U.S. Social Security card is not needed to apply for a driver license.
International Scholars: Scholars in J-1, H-1B, TN, and O-1 statuses must have a social security number in order to apply for a license. Dependents must either show proof of ineligibility for a Social Security Number by getting a denial letter from the Social Security Administration or apply for a number, if eligible, prior to applying for a license.
Note: ISEO is not authorized to issue residency verification documents for students' driver license applications. For a full list of what verification documents are accepted, please visit the California DMV website.
Where to Apply for a Driver's License
The closest DMV Office to UC San Diego is located at:
Department of Motor Vehicles
4375 Derrick Drive
San Diego, CA 92117
(800) 777-0133
For a complete list of DMV office locations, visit the DMV website.
Car Insurance
Keep in mind that automobile insurance is required by law in the United States. Most insurance companies require a valid California driver’s license. For more details, read through the. California and San Diego Driving Facts (PDF).
Driving Schools
There are driving schools in San Diego. Please visit the California DMV Driving School List website for more information.
State ID for Non-Drivers
The DMV can also issue a non-driver’s identification (ID) card. This is a very convenient form of identification, since a passport is not always recognized for local transactions, such as cashing checks or admission to an establishment where alcohol is served.
The same documents are needed as if applying for a driver’s license, and USCIS will have to confirm I-94 status in the United States. A temporary identification card will be issued but it will not have a photograph. For more information, visit the California ID DMV page.