Moving to California: what is different for newcomers

Most first steps are the same in every U.S. state, and our first 30 days checklist covers them. A few rules work differently in California, and it helps to know them early.

Your driver’s license comes first. If you become a California resident, the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) says you must get a California license within 10 days (California DMV). Visitors over 18 may drive on a valid license from home for as long as it stays valid (California DMV). California also offers driver’s licenses to all residents, regardless of immigration status (California DMV). Documents, tests and each step: California driver’s license and ID.

State income tax can apply from the year you arrive. California residents are taxed on all income, regardless of source (California FTB). If you move here during the year, you may be a part-year resident, taxed on all income received while a resident plus California-source income from before (California FTB). How state taxes work: state and local taxes.

Evictions must go through the courts. A California landlord cannot lock a tenant out, shut off utilities or throw out belongings to make the tenant leave; the landlord must go through the court process (California Courts). The courts’ free Self-Help Guide explains each step of an eviction case (California Courts). Your rights day to day: tenant rights.

Earthquakes and wildfires are part of life here. Earthquake Warning California, run by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), could give you crucial seconds to take cover before you feel shaking (Cal OES). Its alerts reach you through the free MyShake app, Android Earthquake Alerts and Wireless Emergency Alerts (Cal OES). Each county also runs its own alert program; if you live in one county and work in another, you can sign up for both (Cal OES). In an earthquake, Ready.gov says to Drop, Cover and Hold On (Ready.gov). For wildfires, it says to learn your evacuation routes and to evacuate immediately if authorities tell you to (Ready.gov). Make your plan with our emergency preparedness guide.