California Code, Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC § 764

Upon application for an operator's license, the department shall require an examination of the applicant.  The department shall adopt rules and regulations establishing the requirements for the examination which will demonstrate to the department the applicant's competency in the operation of vessels.

If an applicant presents a valid operator's license issued pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Motorboat Act of 1940 (Title 46, U.S.C., Section 526f)   1 or the federal act of May 10, 1956 (Title 46, U.S.C. 390-390g)   2, the department may issue an operator's license without requiring an examination.