The Alhambra Police Department in Los Angeles County, California, recently issued an official statement regarding the use of Chinese driver's licenses in California.
WorldWay Immigration Special Reminder: Given that this is a common issue faced by many visitors and businesspeople from China, the Alhambra Police Department, in conjunction with the California Highway Patrol (CHP), has provided clarification on the use of Chinese driver's licenses in California. We hope to alleviate any confusion.
Question: Can I use a Chinese driver's license in California? Can I use an International Driving Permit in California?
Answer: If you are a visitor to California and possess a valid driver's license from your home country, you may drive in California without a California driver's license as long as your home country's license is valid. The California government recognizes driver's licenses issued by the government of the driver's residence (country, state, territory) as valid documents. If you become a resident of California, you must obtain a California driver's license within 10 days.
The California government does not recognize the International Driving Permit as a valid driver's license. The International Driving Permit is merely a translation of your home country's driver's license and is not required for driving in California. We recommend that foreign drivers carry additional identification materials, such as their passport, while driving.
We advise foreign drivers to familiarize themselves with California's traffic regulations to avoid misunderstandings and unnecessary complications.
WorldWay Immigration Special Reminder: To download the 2013 Chinese version of the California Driver's Handbook, please click
Additionally, non-residents under 18 years of age holding a foreign driver's license may only drive in California for 10 days. After 10 days, non-resident minors must obtain a non-resident minor certificate from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to drive. Furthermore, proof of financial responsibility must be provided when obtaining this certificate. Non-resident minors with a foreign driver's license serving in the military have 60 days to drive in California without a California driver's license or a non-resident minor certificate.
Additionally, non-residents under 18 years of age holding a foreign driver's license may only drive in California for 10 days. After 10 days, non-resident minors must obtain a non-resident minor certificate from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to drive. Furthermore, proof of financial responsibility must be provided when obtaining this certificate. Non-resident minors with a foreign driver's license serving in the military have 60 days to drive in California without a California driver's license or a non-resident minor certificate.
