A California driver’s licence (DL) is a card that grants you the authority to drive a motor vehicle.
A driver’s licence contains all the necessary information to identify you, including your complete name, date of birth, address, signature, photo, and physical description. It is essential to have the card with you whenever you drive a motor vehicle.

Thinking about your next adventure? Starting from the new May 7, 2025 deadline, it will be mandatory to have a REAL ID compliant driver’s licence in order to board a domestic flight. Discover more.

A valid California driver’s licence is required to operate a motor vehicle. Discover the various DL options available and familiarise yourself with the application prerequisites.

• Types de licences

DLs can be divided into two primary categories: noncommercial and commercial. Under the noncommercial category, there are different types of licences that allow drivers to legally operate certain types of motor vehicles. Information about the categories and sub-types of licences can be found below, as well as in the California

There are four different categories of noncommercial DLs:

A basic DL (Class C) is a standard vehicle or truck that is suitable for personal use on California roadways. When you possess a Class C driver’s licence, you have the ability to tow:

A vehicle that weighs 10,000 lbs. or less, including a tow dolly.
If you have a vehicle that weighs 4000 lbs. or more when it’s not carrying any additional weight:
Trailer coach or fifth-wheel travel trailer weighing less than 10,000 lbs. GVWR when towing is not intended for compensation.

Fifth-wheel caravan weighing between 10,000 lbs. and 15,000 lbs. When towing is not for compensation and with endorsement, it is important to consider the GVWR.
A motor powers a particular type of two-wheeled vehicle called a motorcycle. Discover the process of obtaining a motorcycle licence.

Travel trailer/fifth wheel (Noncommercial Class A): For vehicles weighing over 15,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR), or caravan coaches weighing over 10,000 pounds GVWR (when the towing is not for compensation).
Housecar/motorhome (Noncommercial Class B): Between 40 and 45 feet in length (with endorsement).

You have the option to choose between REAL ID compliant or federal non-compliant cards for all noncommercial DLs.