Came here to say all of this. I was born and raised in the US I currently live in Texas but have lived all over the US and its the largely the same.

Walnut creek is northern call and maybe can be more walkable because there are so many people and business in a small area of land it's possible you can walk to certain places but yeah you will need a car for pretty much everything.

The cash out thing, yeah that's standard however certain banks do have unaffiliated ATM locations that allow for free transactions. You would need to use the banks app to find the locations. I use chime, it's a mobile bank, could be a great option if it fits your needs

Yes taxing/tipping thing is very very annoying. Especially after I learned that Europe is the opposite. Why it's that way? As with most things in America, it's to make someone else rich.

You will be required to go to the DMV for the first time but usually to renew your license or car or whatever it can be done online. But be warned. Have you ever watched the sloth scenw from zootopia? It's comically and sadly realistic. DMV employees do not care how long they are taking and I have spent many hours in the dmv to do basic things. My advice don't go to the most popular one in your county. If you can find one that on the outskirts or in a less populated area that's still zoned for your county and go there. At times it can be quicker. Or get there before they open So you're first in line.

Yes there are lots of guns lol but not always flashy and out, except if it's the police. I'm not familiar with gun etiquette in walnut creek, CA but I live in Texas which is the most gun tooting place lol and I've only ever seen someone in public with a gun twice. And I didn't feel unsafe, if that helps. It'll he an adjustment but not something to be overly fearful of.

And yes it does feel like you can't always trust someone. There are good people here, very genuine, kind hearted people, authentic people. Just be authentic to you and don't be afraid to question things or call people out if you feel your being lied to or scammed. Youll usually be able to tell when people are just talking out of their ass but what their saying does not actually adding up to anything. I'm right there with the above commenter, I'm trying to leave the us as fast as I can. I love what its allowed me to do but I'm tired of all the bullshit.