Rodney King had another clash with police this week -- the day before the 20 year anniversary of his infamous beating -- but this time, Rodney was only hit with a citation for driving without a license ... TMZ has learned.

Cops in Arcadia, CA received a complaint about a man driving recklessly in a green Mitsubishi Tuesday afternoon ... and when they located the vehicle, they saw King behind the wheel.

A spokesman for the Arcadia Police Department tells us King was pulled over when cops witnessed the car making an unsafe lane change -- and when they approached the vehicle, King admitted he had been driving with an expired license.

We're told King was cited for the license -- not the reckless driving -- and immediately called a friend to drive him home.

And absolutely nothing else happened.

If I was Rodney King I might never drive again! But if I did I would have a valid driver's license.

Karl Malone is that you?

Cue CNN Promo!!!!! RACE n RAGE This Saturday.

Media really needs to try harder.

phunkdaddy said:

Karl Malone is that you?

I never saw the similiarity until you just mentioned it.

Oh and thank you, George Holliday, and fuck you, Daryl Gates. Forever.

Is he broke yet? How much was he awarded?

[Edited 3/4/11 5:22am]