Final answer:
California residents must have a driver's license to drive on public roads or use public parking, as required by state law. The driver’s license also facilitates civic duties like voter registration, as mandated by the Motor Voter Act.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, California residents who drive on public roads or use public parking must have a driver's license. This is mandated by state law which requires that drivers be licensed to operate vehicles legally on public roads. This law is part of the state's authority over critical issues, such as driving age and qualifications for licensure, and is designed primarily to protect citizens from the potential dangers of unlicensed driving.
Furthermore, having a valid driver's license is not only important for driving but also for other legal matters, such as voter registration. The National Voter Registration Act of 1993 or 'the Motor Voter Act', allows individuals to register to vote when they apply for or renew a driver's license. In California, changes to the voter's address can be made through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), highlighting the interconnectedness between driving privileges and civic responsibilities.
Finally, driver's license information can be used by the DMV to ensure that voter registration is accurate and current, as seen in various states like Oregon which uses this data for automatic voter registration. The reliance on a valid driver's license for both legal driving and voter registration underscores its importance for California residents.