US Driver
Moving to California: exchanging your licence
A licence from another US state: for an adult the DMV page says you take a vision exam and the knowledge test. For a minor, a DMV Fast Facts sheet (revision 7/2019, so 2019 material) says the drive test is normally waived, although the DMV may still require one; a minor who surrenders an out-of-state licence to apply for a California licence is subject to all California restrictions and requirements.
A licence from another country: the DMV page handles it the same way as an out-of-state licence, and adds a drive test. You take the vision exam, the knowledge test and the drive test. You need a licensed driver to go with you to and from the drive test.
The DMV pages we read list no country whose licence can be exchanged without tests, and no exception for any country. That includes a licence from mainland China: its holder takes the same tests as any other foreign licence holder. We did not find a statement on whether you need a translation of your foreign licence.
How many days you have: a DMV Fast Facts sheet (revision 6/2020) says a new resident must get a California driver's license within 10 days. The current DMV page for people new to California gives no number of days, so check it before you move. A 16- or 17-year-old with a foreign licence may drive for at most 10 days. To drive longer you need all three together: a nonresident minor's certificate from the DMV; proof of financial responsibility filed with the DMV; and the licence, the certificate and the proof with you whenever you drive.
Visitors aged 18 or over may drive on a valid licence from their home state or country for as long as that licence stays valid.