How to Obtain a California Driving License Following Military Separation or Retirement

Active duty personnel are entitled to keep a driving license from their home state for the duration of their career in the military. They do not need to obtain new licenses every time they move to a new state, as civilians are required to do. But the rules change once they decide to separate or retire from the military. Unless they return home to their home state after they leave the military, they will need to go through the same requirements as other drivers. Here's how to obtain a California driving license if you decide to settle in California following military separation or retirement.

How to Obtain a California Driving License Following Military Separation or Retirement: Time allowed

Once an active duty member separates or retires from the military, they are given 10 days in the state of California to obtain a driving license if they wish to take up residence and settle there. This 10 day period does not begin following their last day at work, as many active duty members still have weeks or months of leave saved up. It is only once this "terminal leave" has been used up and their official separation or retirement date has come into effect that this 10 day period begins. For example, if an active duty member's last day of work was 1st May and they had 60 days of leave left, they will not have to worry about taking the driving test until the week beginning 1st July. This gives them plenty of time to study for their test.

How to Obtain a California Driving License Following Military Separation or Retirement: Eyesight test

An eyesight test is performed on people who are taking both the written and practical test. So be prepared to have your eyesight checked when you visit the DMV to take your written test. If your eyesight has deteriorated, you will need to correct your vision before you are allowed to proceed. After this has been done and you take your test, you must make sure you wear corrective lenses whenever you drive, if advised to do so.

How to Obtain a California Driving License Following Military Separation or Retirement: Test