California road trip!

What are your main interests for this trip?

Your drivers license situation is fine, no worries. Your over all route in 3 weeks is also fine, 2 weeks can be done but rushed. Both using a loop out of LV.
Highly recommend 3 weeks, there is a lot to see and do.

Be aware that Hwy.1 between LA and SF has a detour and will be 50/50 if it's open in September next year, just keep and eye open on it. Very hard to say.
http://bigsurcalifornia.org/highway_conditions.html

September is a fantastic time to travel the west. If you can start after the 3rd, last big summer holiday in the states, it will be better, kids back in school, a little cheaper and a bit less crowded..
You will need to reserve camp spots along the coast and Yosemite Valley now, or when your allowed to, usually about 6 moths prior, they fill up fast.
In September you might get by without reservations along the coast at first come campgrounds on a weekday before noon.

Camping in upper Yosemite along Hwy.12, White Wolf and Porcupine both first come campgrounds will be a bit easier without reservations, more info. if needed.
After Tioga Pass, east side entrance to Yosemite you have Lee Vining, Bodies Ghost Town, Tom's Place ( Rock Creek Road ) outstanding camping and hiking, Mammoth Lakes, Bishop area, north and south lake, so many places.

Maybe look at adding Zion NP plus it makes a good loop, Vegas, Grand Canyon and Zion via Hwy.89A.

The below are perfect for 2 people and easy to drive-park, just like a normal van. Don't get and RV, a real pain.
Here are some campervans that I'm aware of, no recommendation but have seen many folks with them out west camping and they all seem to enjoy them. They rent to 21yrs. and up.

http://www.escapecampervans.com/

https://www.jucyusa.com/

http://lostcampersusa.com

Does this sound possible to do in 2-3 weeks?

3 weeks, yes. Two weeks would be very rushed.

How long would you suggest we stay at each place?
Are there any must sees along the way?

What are your interests? History? Art/ Music? Food? Hikes? Bikes? Night clubs? Strip clubs? Remember, we don't know you and what we like may be what you hate.

leaning towards the side of camper right now!

Be aware that pulling over and camping on the side of the road is generally not tolerated. In many places, it is outright illegal, especially the parks.

Campgrounds are also difficult to find near cities. Camping is generally viewed as a way to get away from cities, not cheap lodging. Even with a camper you may have to book hotels/motels.

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