Getting license in USA, "direct transfer" - Very helpful tips I learned the hard way

[Yellowhead 12]

Correct on the Cali thing... you need to retake everything and validation is as long as GC. Not sure how it works for a conditional 2 yr GC...

To even apply in California you need your SSN according to the CA DMV site. I have heard this varies from location to location, but this is the standard anyway. Anyone know how long it takes before being able to get a California license after POE and Adjust of Status? Trying to figure out how long I will be traveling by foot..

Does anyone have experience registering their vehicle in Cali from Canada? I have the letter of compliance and everything is on par with Cali regulations (aside from odometer being in KM). Speedometer has both miles and KM thankfully. I would love to hear experiences with this if anyone has any. Import should be a piece of cake (my vehicle is a 2007 Toyota Yaris) but it is registration I am wondering about. I assume I have to do a smog test, etc. ?? Any other documentation needed?

[Tater&Bugger 3]

In NY it was easy, just a long line ... if anyone wants to know for NY here is how it goes;

You need 6 points of ID... DL from your province (valid), copy of Visa or GC, SNN, and anything other 3 thing with your name. I had my passport pic page, credit card and something else... can't remember but it was nothing special. You will fill out a form when you arrive asking for your new address.

Since I had not yet received my GC they needed to confirm my Visa status with Albany and issue me a temporary (1 year) DL based on the assumption my GC will be approved. Once I have my GC I simply show them and get a new NY DL. They took my ON license.

The end

Edit; the border did not properly immigrate my car so I only recently had to go back and do this and will visit the DMV sometime this week if I can find time around my GC interview, or next week. I will post later and let you know how it goes.

Edited February 26, 2011 by Tater&Bugger