I believe driving without a license in California is considered a misdemeanor. This is of course assuming you were not charged with other things like DUI or in an accident. While a misdemeanor is not a felony, it can still appear on background checks.  If this is your first offense on anything ever, you may wish to contact a criminal defense attorney who is experienced in traffic and such violations and see if he or she can help you get this charged lowered or dismissed with some sort of community service.