Posted: Sat Oct 27, 2007 9:22 pm Post subject: Learning to drive
California laws are a little different from mine.
As I understand it, before you can get your Provisional Permit, you must take a driver's education class either in the classroom or online.
I think you will also have to have some "behind the wheel" instruction with a California approved instructor before you can actually drive with a permit in your boyfriend's car.
I would call the California Department of Motor Vehicles and they can explain it all to you.
I would concentrate on getting my permit and then your boyfriend can call his insurance agent and see what needs to be done to get you insured. _________________
If you don't have a valid license, you need to obtain one before you can actually drive your boyfriend's car and for that you should be at least 16 yrs old.
To obtain the first driving license in CA you have to apply for the learner's permit. For that you have to clear the test of traffic signs and state vehicle laws. Additionally, you have to pass the hearing and vision test to receive the CA driving license.
However, if you are an out-of-state residence with a valid driving license, you don't have to undergo the driving tests for a CA license. But need to apply for the license within 10 days of establishing yourself as a permanent residence of CA. Don't forget to carry your existing license to the CA DMV dept. and surrender it there to receive the new CA license.
If you drive your boyfriend's car with his permission then you should be covered under his renter's policy. Check that out with his insurance company. Otherwise, you can also buy non-owners insurance. It will keep you covered through-out the year. _________________ Register Now to have your Insurance queries solved.
OK...here's the info. Just about all insurance policies allow for "permissive use" of the vehicle, and you would have coverage under your boyfriend's policy.
What bothers me is that no reply to the post actually answered your question!
You asked how you could be covered as a "permitted driver" in order to drive your boyfriend's car. You received reponses dealing with how to get a drivers license, what you need for a drivers license, etc. Additionally, you heard about "renter's insurance." What does renter's insurance have to do with auto coverage? The term "renter's insurance" normally applies to the apartment or rental dwelling that you live in, NOT auto insurance!
You don't NEED A DRIVERS LICENSE TO BE COVERED UNDER INSURANCE! How the heck would anyone learn how to drive in California, or anywhere else for that matter, if they had to have an actual license? Just about all carriers will cover driver's with learners permits. How would your 15 year old learn how to drive otherwise?
So...just ask your boyfriend to call his agent and check! Chances are, you're already covered. The trend is to NOT charge permitted drivers additional premium in MOST states as they must be under the supervision of a licensed driver, normally at least 21 years old. Some carriers WILL charge for permitted driver usage.
Now, if you are planning on using his vehicle regularly after you get your license, you need to be added to the insurance policy.
Hope this helps...let us know if there's anything else!
