Fisket

Hey everyone! I'm new on here but it seems like there's loads of people who know a lot about all these kinds of things, so I'd be really grateful if anyone could help

I'm moving to California, and I currently have a learner's UK driver's license. Does anyone know how it would work for me over there? Can I take my test there and get a US license?

I don't want to be doomed to never having a full license!

Does anyone know? Thanks so much!

lisa67

Hi and welcome
Take a look at this http://www.dmv.ca.gov/dl/dl.htm
It should give you all the help you need.
Whatever you have already done in the UK won't translate to the US and "i think" you'll have to start the process again....no big deal though the tests are nothing like the UK one..much easier

dbj1000

Lisa's right - you'll just "study" for and take the piss-easy California test.

Do it ASAP when you arrive - it's basically impossible to live here without driving. You may think you'll be able to use public transport, but after your first few bus rides, you'll change your mind.

mayhemuk

Piss easy maybe but still get plenty of road time in. If you're a confident and competent driver you'll be fine. Where will you be in CA? I wouldn't fancy LA much from what I've heard though maybe the gridlock would give you lots of decision making time.
Here in the bay area it can be pretty hectic sometimes but mostly it's OK but I would say it's easier driving in the UK than here since it's more of a freeforall here.

Good luck.

Fisket

Hey everyone, thanks for your help

I'll go and check out that link Lisa, thank you

I'm a pretty experienced driver over here, I've just had problems passing my test! I'll be sure to get in a good amount of practice first, since I'll have to get used to being on the other side of the road etc, though hopefully it won't be too hard to adjust.

Well I'll be working in San Diego and living around Oceanside, it looks like, so I won't have to cope with LA traffic straightaway

Bob

without a UK license though, you'll have to use a school car as you wouldn't be able to rent a car for the test, and you'll need someone with a license to take you to the test centre etc...

Patrick Hasler

In the USA you will pass if you actually only kill 1 person whilst driving the 4 minute course on the test

sime303

Only 1? Maine is way more lenient we were allowed 2 and a moose.

Fisket

Damn, I can kill a person? I thought I was only allowed to get away with maiming someone!

See this is why I haven't been able to pass in the UK... They're so strict! 'Watch out for that telephone box', 'That was someone's cat', 'Dear God pull over, we need to go back and check his pulse'...

Alan17

Don't worry - if you're an inexperienced driver with little road experience you'll fit in fine around here. Just don't hit my car on the 5 down to San Diego