Driver License (DL) and Identification (ID) Card Information
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The accompanying DL holder must sit in a position close enough to take control of the vehicle, if necessary. If it was stolen, however, the chances of someone using it in nefarious ways increases significantly. Please visit the webpage for the acceptable documents lists.
You may continue to drive as an adult using your DL, which will expire on your fifth birthday after the date you applied. This person must be close enough to you to take control of the vehicle if necessary. When you get back to Florida, change the address back to your regular Florida address. DMV may ask your insurance company to verify that you had coverage in effect at the time of the accident.
Replacing a Lost License - If you make a critical driving error CDE , you will be given an unsatisfactory test score failure.
To incorporate the latest accessibility features download of the latest version of Acrobat Reader may be required. If you have problems with Acrobat Reader, for possible solutions. To learn more about how your information is shared as well as the laws that protect the release of your information visit. If you become a California resident, you must get a California DL within ten 10 days. Residency is established by voting in a California election, paying resident tuition, filing for a homeowner's property tax exemption, or any other privilege or benefit not ordinarily extended to nonresidents. It will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office. If all requirements are not met within 12 months, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the same knowledge test three 3 times the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the driving test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. You will then be issued an instruction permit if you have never been licensed before. When you practice, you must have an accompanying adult who is 18 years of age or older, with a valid California DL. This person must be close enough to you to take control of the vehicle if necessary. It is illegal for you to drive alone. If you have a DL from another country, you will be required to take a driving test. If you have a DL from another state, the driving test may be waived. Driving tests are not given without an appointment. You may also call 1-800-777-0133 during the regular business hours of 8 a. Wednesdays excluding holidays , to make a driving test appointment. After you pass your driving test you will be issued an interim DL valid for 90 days until you receive your new photo DL in the mail. Double check your address and DL classification, including endorsements and restrictions, before you leave DMV. Notify the DMV representative if you have moved or if your information is incorrect. If you have not received your DL after 60 days, call 1-800-777-0133 and they can check on the status for you. Have your interim DL with you to provide information when requested. How to apply for a commercial driver license A commercial driver license CDL is a license issued in accordance with Federal Regulations that allows an individual to operate a commercial motor vehicle CMV. Federal regulations require that an applicant be 18 years or older to apply for a CDL and be issued a commercial learner's permit CLP. Note: If you apply to upgrade or add an endorsement to your driver license DL , you must complete the process within 12 months. Otherwise, you may not receive your renewal notice in the mail. You may drive for hire within California if you are 18 years of age or older and do not engage in interstate commerce activities. VC §12515 VC §12516 You must be at least 21 years old to drive a CMV in interstate commerce or transport hazardous materials or waste. If applying for a CDL, you must provide proof of your Identity, social security number SSN , and residency from the list of acceptable REAL ID document options. TSA's Process Federal regulations require a person who is applying for a California commercial driver license CDL with an original or renewal Hazardous Materials HazMat endorsement to undergo a security threat assessment. The USA Patriot Act requires the Transportation Security Administration TSA to complete a security threat assessment background records check before the DMV issues a HazMat endorsement. Start the TSA background records check after you apply for your CDL at DMV and successfully complete all appropriate knowledge tests. Go online to or call 1-855-347-8371 to make an appointment with a TSA agent. You must submit the applicable federal fee s and any additional required information to the designated TSA agent. The TSA agent will advise you of the fingerprint requirements. A DL 51 is no longer acceptable. It will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office. If all requirements are not met within 12 months, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the same knowledge test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. Important: If you fail any segment of the skills test, all other testing will be postponed and it will count as one 1 failure towards the maximum three 3 attempts you are allowed. If you fail the skills test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing, DMV will not administer knowledge tests within 30 minutes of closing. See hours of operation for the you are visiting. Once you pass your knowledge tests, you will be issued a CLP. If you present limited term legal presence documents, your CLP may expire on the same date as your legal presence documents. The tank must be purged if it previously contained a hazardous material. The CDL holder must possess the appropriate class of CDL and endorsements necessary to operate the CMV. If you fail any segment of the skills test, all other testing will be postponed and it will count as one 1 failure towards the maximum three 3 attempts you are allowed. Both you and your employer are required to sign this form. After you pass your skills test, surrender your out-of-state CDL, or submit your certificate, you will be issued an interim CDL valid for 90 days until you receive your new CDL in the mail. Double check your address and CDL classification, including endorsements and restrictions, before you leave DMV. Notify the DMV representative if you have moved or if your information is incorrect. If you have not received your CDL after 60 days, call 1-800-777-0133 to check the status. Have your interim CDL with you to provide information when requested. Out-of-State CDL Skills Test Results If you have a California CLP and have completed your CDL training and CDL skills test vehicle inspection, basic control skills, and road test in another state, the results will be sent electronically from the state you were tested in to the California DMV. You will need to go to a to finalize your CDL application. Failure to return to a DMV CDL office may result in your application expiring. Medical Examination Report for commercial driver license Commercial drivers in interstate commerce and drivers applying for, or who hold, a certificate to drive a School Bus, School Pupil Activity Bus, Youth Bus, General Public Paratransit Vehicle, or Farm Labor Vehicle must use medical examiners listed on the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners National Registry. The National Registry is a Federal program establishing requirements for healthcare professionals that perform physical qualification examinations for commercial motor vehicle CMV drivers. This program was developed to improve highway safety and driver health by requiring medical examiners be trained and certified so they can determine effectively whether a commercial driver's medical fitness for duty meets federal standards. Contact information for medical examiners is available online at the National Registry website. The National Registry website can be found at. If you are required to have a commercial driver license CDL as part of your job, your employer shall pay the cost of the examination unless it was performed before you applied for the job Labor Code §231. The MER and MEC forms must be dated within the last two 2 years. School bus drivers 65 years of age and older must submit a new medical report to DMV every year. The MER and MEC forms must be dated within the last two 2 years. When submitting the MER, you are only required to submit pages 1-4. Page 5 of the MER addresses meeting medical standards with a State variance. A State variance would exempt a driver from the federal physical standards. California does not have any State variances or exemptions from the federal physical standards. The medical examiner will complete and sign a for you to carry when you are driving commercially. You can be given a citation for driving out of class if you drive a CMV after your MEC expires. Any noncommercial driver previously required to submit a DL 51, ambulance drivers, van pool drivers, and Freeway Service Patrol tow truck drivers, are required to submit a MER. A DL 51 in no longer acceptable. A commercial driver who does not pass the medical examination may qualify for a California intrastate restricted medical certificate DL 51B. These drivers must submit a MER to DMV showing they did not pass the medical examination in order to be considered for an intrastate restricted medical certificate. You may take the completed MER and MEC to a DMV field office to be updated. You may also mail the MER and MEC to the address below, at least four 4 weeks prior to the expiration of your previous medical. Department of Motor Vehicles CDL Unit, G204 P. Box 944278 Sacramento, CA 94244-2780 Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation §383. The license does not restrict the transport, origination, or destination of the load to be transported. The cargo and passengers must originate and end in California. While driving commercially you may not cross state or international borders. California does not issue that kind of license. Important: You may be engaged in interstate commerce even if your vehicle does not leave the state. DMV strongly recommends a driver certify a driving type of non-excepted interstate NI if you meet the federal qualifications and there is any chance you might operate a CMV in interstate commerce. To change or update your self-certification status on your driver record, complete a PDF and mail it to the address on the form or drop it off at any DMV field office. If a corrected CDL card is also wanted, you will need to visit a DMV field office and pay for a corrected CDL card. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating GVWR which is not used for hire. GVWR which is not used for hire. GVWR but not over 15,000 lbs. GVWR, and is operated within 150 miles of the farm by a farmer to transport livestock. Exemptions: Holders of a Commercial Class A or B DL, a Noncommercial Class A DL, and all DL classes with a firefighter endorsement. It will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office. If all requirements are not met within 12 months, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the same knowledge test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. Important: If you fail any segment of the skills test, all other testing will be postponed and it will count as one 1 failure towards the maximum three 3 attempts you are allowed. If you fail the skills test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing, DMV will not administer knowledge tests within 30 minutes of closing. See hours of operation for the you are visiting. Once you have completed these requirements, you will be issued an instruction permit. You can only drive with a person who has a California DL in the same class or higher as your instruction permit and meets the age requirements. Noncommercial Class A driving test appointments cannot be made for the same day and cannot be made online. If you fail any segment of the skills test, all other testing will be postponed and it will count as one 1 failure towards the maximum three 3 attempts you are allowed. After you pass your driving test, you will be issued an interim DL valid for 90 days until you receive your new DL in the mail. Verify your address and DL classification, including endorsements and restrictions, before you leave DMV. Notify the DMV representative if you have moved or if your information is incorrect. If you have not received your DL within 60 days, call 1-800-777-0133 to check the status. Have your interim DL with you to provide information when requested. It will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office. If all requirements are not met within 12 months, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the same knowledge test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. Important: If you fail any segment of the skills test, all other testing will be postponed and it will count as one 1 failure towards the maximum three 3 attempts you are allowed. If you fail the skills test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing, DMV will not administer knowledge tests within 30 minutes of closing. See hours of operation for the you are visiting. Once you have passed your test, you will be issued an instruction permit. You can only drive with a person who has a California DL in the same class as your instruction permit or higher and meets the age requirements. Noncommercial Class B driving test appointments cannot be made for the same day and cannot be made online. If you fail any segment of the skills test, all other testing will be postponed and it will count as one 1 failure towards the maximum three 3 attempts you are allowed. NOTE: If your housecar is equipped with air brakes, you are not required to pass an air brake law test or perform an air brake system check. After you pass your driving test, you will be issued an interim DL valid for 90 days until you receive your new DL in the mail. Verify your address and DL classification, including endorsements and restrictions, before you leave DMV. Notify the DMV representative if you have moved or if your information is incorrect. If you have not received your DL within 60 days, call 1-800-777-0133 to check the status. Have your interim DL with you to provide information when requested. How to apply for a motorcycle driver license if you are over 18 There are two 2 classes of motorcycle driver licenses DL , Class M1 and Class M2. The scooter may also have a driver's seat. Refer to the for more information. For more information about the motorcyclist training course visit , or call 1-877-743-3411. It will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office. If all requirements are not met within 12 months, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the same knowledge test three 3 times the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the driving test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing, DMV will not administer knowledge test within 30 minutes of closing. See hours of operation for the you are visiting. After studying both the , call 1-800-777-0133, visit your , or make an online for the knowledge test. After completing the requirements, you will be issued an instruction permit to allow you to practice driving a motorcycle. You may not drive at night, on the freeway, or have any passengers with you. Note: If you apply to upgrade or add an endorsement to your DL, you must complete the process within 12 months. Otherwise, you may not receive your renewal notice in the mail. The skills test may be waived for a person presenting a valid DL 389. You may also call 1-800-777-0133 during the regular business hours of 8 a. You have three 3 chances to pass the skills test. For information about the motorcyclist training course visit , or call 1-877-743-3411. After you have submitted your Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training DL 389 or passed your skills test, you will be issued an interim DL valid for 90 days until you receive your new DL in the mail. Double check your address and DL classification, including endorsements and restrictions, before you leave DMV. Notify the DMV representative if you have moved or if your information is incorrect. If you have not received your DL after 60 days, call 1-800-777-0133 to check on the status. Have your interim DL with you to provide information when requested. It will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office. If all requirements are not met within 12 months, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the same knowledge test three 3 times the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. You must wait 14 days 2 weeks , not including the day the test was failed, before you are retested. If you fail the driving test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail, you must wait seven 7 days before taking it again. Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing, DMV will not administer knowledge tests within 30 minutes of closing. See hours of operation for the you are visiting. Obtain a DL 33 form from your local DMV office or by calling DMV at 1-800-777-0133. Send the DL 33 form to your out-of-state secondary school to complete. An out-of-state driving instructional permit is not acceptable proof of driver education and driver training. If you are over 17 ½ but under 18 years of age, you may get your provisional instruction permit without the driver education and driver training certificates; however, you will not be able to take the driving test until you turn 18. Once you pass your knowledge test, you will be issued a provisional instruction permit. A parent, guardian, spouse or adult 25 years of age or older, who has a valid California DL, must be with you when you drive. The accompanying DL holder must sit in a position close enough to take control of the vehicle, if necessary. It is illegal for you to drive alone at any time. The adult must have a valid California DL and certify to the 50 hours of practice. At least ten 10 of the 50 hours must have been done at night. Driving tests are not given without an appointment. You may also call 1-800-777-0133 during the regular business hours of 8 a. Wednesdays excluding holidays , to make a driving test appointment. After you pass your driving test you will be issued an interim DL valid for 90 days until you receive your new photo DL in the mail. Check your address and DL classification, including endorsements and restrictions, before you leave DMV and tell the DMV representative if you have moved or if your information is incorrect. If you have not received your DL after 60 days, call 1-800-777-0133 to check on the status. Have your interim DL with you to provide information when requested. If you fail your driving test, you must wait 14 days 2 weeks , not including the day the test was failed, before you can take the test again. You have three 3 chances to pass. If driver education and driver training were taken in a state other than California, DMV will accept either a To Secondary Schools Other Than California Schools form DL 33 completed by the out-of-state school, or a letter on the out-of-state school's stationery signed by a school official stating that the courses are equivalent to California's requirements. Instructional permits issued by another state are not acceptable proof. Provisional instruction permit - cumulative credit Your driver license DL application is valid for 12 months from the application date. If your application will expire before you have held your provisional instruction permit for six 6 months, you must return to DMV and start a new application. You will need to pay the application fee and fulfill all. Take your instruction permit with you to DMV. You will be credited for the time you have held your instruction permit and receive cumulative credit towards your subsequent provisional instruction permit to meet the six-month requirement before taking your driving test. You must keep the expired instruction permit with your new instruction permit until you pass your driving test. The new instruction permit and the expired provisional instruction permit is the only proof of credit that satisfies the six-month requirement. When a new application is started, DMV does not retain the previous application information. If you lose your expired instruction permit, without the necessary proof of a previous application, the full six-month waiting period will be required before you will be allowed to take your driving test. Bring both your provisional instruction permits with you when you take your driving test. NOTE: Nonresident parents cannot sign the application form and cannot accept liability for a minor in California. Nonresident military parents stationed and living in California can sign the application form and accept liability for a minor. When parents or guardians sign for a minor to get a DL, they are stating that they will accept financial responsibility for that minor. Most Californians maintain financial responsibility through insurance companies, which provide the policy holder with an identification card to be used as evidence of coverage. The card must state the insurance company's name and address, the period of coverage, and policy number. Driver education and driver training information You may take driver education classroom training or driver training behind-the-wheel in a California secondary school, or in a state licensed, professional driving school. A California secondary school is a private or public high school, technical school, or adult school. Driver Education and Driver Training courses must be conducted as prescribed by the Department of Education. Driver training must consist of at least six 6 hours of behind-the-wheel professional instruction. Professional schools and instructors in California are licensed by the DMV. Schools must carry liability insurance, be bonded, and maintain complete records for DMV inspection. Their teaching cars are subject to inspection every six 6 months. Instructors must pass qualifying examinations every three 3 years, or show proof of continuing education in traffic safety. Obtain a DL 33 form from your local DMV office or by calling DMV at 1-800-777-0133. Send the DL 33 form to your out-of-state secondary school to complete. An out-of-state driving instructional permit is not acceptable proof of driver education and driver training. Persons under 18 may not be employed to drive a motor vehicle. When you turn 18 years of age, the provisional part of your driver license DL ends. You may continue to drive as an adult using your DL, which will expire on your fifth birthday after the date you applied. Exceptions to Restrictions When reasonable transportation is not available and it is necessary for you to drive, the law grants the following exceptions for minors to drive between 11 p. The following exceptions are allowed when reasonable transportation is not available and it is necessary for you to drive. A signed note must be kept in your possession for any of these exceptions explaining the necessity and the date when the driving necessity will end except emancipated minors. The note must be signed by your physician, and contain the diagnosis and probable date of recovery. The note must be signed by your school principal, dean, or designee. The note must be signed by your employer verifying employment. The note must be signed by your parent or legal guardian. However, you must have already declared yourself emancipated and provided DMV with Proof of Financial Responsibility SR 1P in lieu of your guarantors' signatures. Questions and Answers-Changes to Provisional Driver License Restrictions For questions and answers regarding the provisional driver license DL restrictions, see our new. Related Links: How to apply for a motorcycle driver license if you are under 18 There are two classes of motorcycle driver licenses DL , Class M1 and Class M2. The scooter may also have a driver's seat. Refer to the for more information. For more information about the motorcyclist training course visit , or call 1-877-743-3411. It will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office. If all requirements are not met within 12 months, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the same knowledge test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If all requirements are not met within 12 months, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the same knowledge test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing, DMV will not administer knowledge tests within 30 minutes of closing. See hours of operation for the you are visiting. After studying both the , call your 1-800-777-0133 or visit you to schedule your for the test. After completing the requirements, you will be issued an instruction permit to allow you to practice driving a motorcycle. You may not drive at night, on the freeway, or have any passengers with you. Note: If you apply to upgrade or add an endorsement to your DL, you must complete the process within 12 months. Otherwise, you may not receive your renewal notice in the mail. You will not be required to take the motorcycle skills test at DMV. For information about the motorcyclist training course visit , or call 1-877-743-3411. After you submit the CHP completion certificate, you will be issued an interim DL valid for 90 days until you receive your new DL in the mail. Double check your address and DL classification, including endorsements and restrictions, before you leave DMV. Notify the DMV representative if you have moved or if your information is incorrect. If you have not received your DL after 60 days, call 1-800-777-0133 and they can check on the status for you. Have your interim DL with you to provide information when requested. How to apply for or renew an identification card DMV issues two 2 types of identification ID cards. A regular ID card valid for six 6 birthdates from the date of application, and a senior citizen ID card valid for eight 8 birthdates from the date of application. To qualify for a senior citizen ID card, you must be age 62 or older. It will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office. No fee for a senior citizen ID card. If applying for an original identification card or converting to a REAL ID identification card, you must provide proof of your Identity, SSN, and residency from the list of acceptable REAL ID document options. Check your address before you leave DMV and tell the DMV representative if your address is incorrect. If you have not received your ID card after 60 days, call 1-800-777-0133 to check the status. DMV will exchange a valid DL for a no-fee ID card to applicants who are no longer able to drive safely because of a physical or mental condition. Please call your for additional information. No fee for a senior citizen ID card. Double check your address before you leave DMV and tell the DMV representative if your address is incorrect. Your new ID card will be mailed to you within 60 days. If you have not received your ID card after 60 days, call 1-800-777-0133 and they can check on the status for you. You can see if you are eligible to renew your ID card by mail by completing and submitting the. Identification Cards DMV issues identification ID cards to persons of any age. The ID card looks like a driver license DL but is used for identification purposes only. A regular ID card is valid for six 6 birthdates from the date of application, and a senior citizen ID card is valid for eight 8 birthdates from the date of application. To qualify for a senior citizen ID card, you must be age 62 or older. If applying for an original or first time conversion identification card, you must provide proof of your Identity, SSN, and residency from the list of acceptable REAL ID document options. Reduced-fee Identification Card You may pay a reduced application fee for an original or renewal identification ID card if you meet income requirements from a public assistance program. If you are eligible, the governmental or non-profit program will give you a completed Verification for Reduced Fee Identification Card form DL 937 to take to DMV to apply for your reduced fee ID card. See your local public assistance program agency for information about eligibility requirements and obtaining a DL 937 form. Cross out any old information on the renewal notice and write in the current information. Submit the DL 939 with your Commercial Driver License Application. If all requirements are not met within 12 months, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the same knowledge test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. It will tell you if you need to take a test. Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing, DMV will not administer knowledge tests within 30 minutes of closing. See hours of operation fro the you are visiting. After you complete the requirements you will be issued an interim DL valid for 90 days until you receive your new DL in the mail. If you have not received your DL after 60 days, call 1-800-777-0133 to check the status. Have your interim DL with you to provide information when requested. If your DL has expired, it is illegal for you to drive. There are no late fees to renew your DL. While there are no penalties, you may be cited by a police officer for driving with an expired DL. If you are a commercial driver and your CDL has been expired over two 2 years, you will need to take a skills test in the type of commercial motor vehicle you will be driving. Important: CDL holders are not eligible for renewal by mail or renewal by Internet as of May 10, 2017. Immediate Attention: You will need a federal compliant card such as a passport, military ID, or Real ID to board an airplane or access some federal facilities beginning October 1, 2020. DMV began offering REAL ID DL and ID cards on January 22, 2018. If you qualify and have not received a notice to renew by mail, complete a and send it along with a check for the renewal fee to: Department of Motor Vehicles ATTN: Renewal By Mail Unit PO Box 942890 Sacramento, CA 94290-0001 If you need further information, please call 1-800-777-0133. If eligible, you can register to vote during your renewal by mail process, or directly with the. If you qualify and wish to renew by Internet, go to , click on the Online Services tab and then choose and complete the instructions to renew your DL online. If you have recently submitted or intend to submit within the next 7-10 days an online change of address, we recommend that you mail in your renewal notice and change your address on the back of the form. This will avoid delays in receiving your DL or ID card. Please have your RBM notice and credit card handy before starting your transaction. If you would like further information, please visit our web page, or call 1-800-777-0133. If eligible, you can register to vote during your renewal by Internet process, or directly with the. How to renew an instruction permit If your instruction permit has expired, you must reapply. This means completing a new application, resubmitting documents, paying the application fee, and taking the required tests. If you are under 18 years of age, you will need your parent s or guardian s signature on the application form. For a duplicate DL, minors must have on the application. Please visit the webpage for the acceptable documents lists. To ensure your identity is secure, the DMV will validate your photograph, social security number, and your personal information. Check your address and DL classification, including endorsements and restrictions, before you leave DMV and tell the DMV representative if your information is incorrect. If changing your name and applying for a REAL ID Compliant DL or ID card, you must first visit a DMV field office in person and present Identity, SSN, and residency documents from the acceptable documents list. Please visit the webpage for the acceptable documents lists. Acceptable evidence of your new name may be provided by showing an original or certified copy of an document or a document. Please contact the Social Security Administration SSA to change your name on SSA records before you make an appointment with DMV to have your name changed on DMV records. DMV electronically verifies your name, birth date and social security number with the SSA. If your information does not verify, you will not receive your new California DL or ID card. Check your address and DL classification, including endorsements and restrictions, before you leave DMV, and tell the DMV representative if you have moved or your information is incorrect. Note: A name change on your DL or ID card will not change your vehicle registration information. Interpreter Services The DMV provides interpreters, including American Sign Language ASL interpreters, at no cost to the customer. If you need an interpreter, please let our staff know and an appointment will be scheduled when a foreign language or an ASL interpreter is available. Appointments may also be scheduled by calling 1-800-777-0133 during the regular business hours of 8 a. For the California Relay Telephone Service from TDD phones, call 1-800-735-2929 or, from voice phones, call 1-800-735-2922 for assistance in contacting DMV and making arrangements for an ASL interpreter. Interpreters cannot be used to administer a commercial driver license knowledge test or skills test. Social Security Number Requirement The Social Security Act allows any state to use the social security number SSN to establish the identification of an applicant. The California Vehicle Code requires the collection of the social security number. All applicants must submit to DMV their social security number. The SSN is considered confidential and will not appear on the DL or be encoded on the magnetic stripe. Any documents that the DMV is authorized to release to the public will have the SSN masked. Your SSN document must show your full SSN to be acceptable. Armed Forces Identification Cards: Active-DD 2. Note: Photocopies, alterations, and illegible documents are not acceptable. Note: Photocopies, alterations, and illegible documents are not acceptable. Exception to the SSN requirement: If you are legally present in the US, but ineligible for an SSN, you are exempt from SSN requirements. True Full Name Your true full name first, middle, last appears on your Identity document. This document must be issued by a government agency within the United States or a foreign jurisdiction that is authorized to issue such documents. The document must be a legible and unaltered original or certified copy with a government seal, stamp or other official imprint. If applying for a DL or ID card, you must provide proof of your Identity, SSN, and residency from the list of acceptable REAL ID document options. Eligibility for government services, issuance of various licenses, assessment of taxes, the right to vote, etc. It is critical that identification documents be authenticated and accurate in identifying each applicant. The California driver license DL and identification ID card have been declared as primary identification documents in this state by the California legislature. State law requires every applicant for an original California ID card and DL to show verification of Identity to help safeguard the accuracy and integrity of departmental documents. If applying for a DL or ID card, you must provide proof of your Identity, SSN, and residency from the list of acceptable REAL ID document options. Limited Term Legal Presence All original and pending driver license DL or identification ID cards will expire on the expiration date of their document issued by the Department of Homeland Security DHS. Your Identity document must have an expiration date 30 or more days from your application date. If your Identity document has an expiration date less than 30 days, you will not be able to start a DL or ID card application. If applying for a limited term DL or ID card, you must provide proof of your Identity, SSN, and residency from the list of acceptable REAL ID document options. Residency Document Requirements You must provide one 1 form of acceptable residency when applying for an original California driver license DL or California identification ID card. When using a mailing address that is a post office PO box or general delivery, you must provide an actual place of residence on your application. The address on the residency documents must match the residence address on your application. NOTE: If you are applying for a DL in compliance with AB 60, you are only required to provide one 1 residency document. The departmental authority for administering the vision exam is 12804. Visual acuity measurements are obtained for both eyes together and for each eye separately while both eyes remain open, as in normal driving. There are two 2 methods of testing, a Snellen chart or Optec 1000 Vision Tester. The Snellen chart contains five 5 lines of letters and measures the portion of an applicant's general seeing ability, known as visual acuity or keenness of vision. The Optec 1000 Vision Tester obtains a more precise vision score by providing a test situation, which is equivalent to placing the applicant at the end of a room 26 feet long to read a test target at the opposite end of the room. Applicants who do not pass either exams may, depending on the circumstances, be referred to a vision specialist. The vision specialist may prescribe eye glasses or a stronger prescription for the current eye glasses worn. Military Personnel Away From Home If you are out of state on active military service in the United States Armed Forces, you and your spouse's California driver licenses DL will continue to be valid beyond the normal expiration date. If your DL has expired and you are out of state, call 916 657-7790 to update your driving record. DMV will send you an Extension of License for Person in Armed Forces DL 236 card to carry with your DL. The DL 236 card shows California Vehicle Code CVC §12817 which authorizes the extension of you and your spouse's DLs. It is important to update your driving record to prevent it from being purged. Ask the authorities in the state or country where you are on duty if they will honor your extended DL. Your DL is not valid if it has been suspended, canceled, or revoked. You and your spouse's extended DLs are good for 30 days after you or your spouse return to California. If honorably discharged, carry both your DL and discharge papers during those 30 days. If all requirements are not met within 12 months, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. If you fail the same knowledge test three 3 times, the application will no longer be valid and you must reapply. Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing, DMV will not administer knowledge tests within 30 minutes of closing. See hours of operation for the you are visiting. If your dependent's California DL expires soon, they can apply for a renewal of their DL by calling DMV at 916 657-7790 or they can request a no-fee one-year extension by writing to DMV at: Department of Motor Vehicles PO Box 942890 Sacramento, California 94290-0001 Be sure to include the name as it appears on the DL, DL number, birth date and address in the request. Negligent Operator Violation Point Count Once you are licensed to drive in California it is important that you continue to follow all the laws and practice safe driving habits. If you start accumulating tickets for moving violations, which count as one 1 or two 2 points, you may be considered a negligent operator and may lose your privilege to drive. Most driving offenses, such as hit and run, reckless driving, and driving under the influence, are designated as two 2 points and will remain on your record for seven 7 years from the violation date. Most other offenses are designated as one 1 point and will remain on your record for three 3 years from the violation date. International Driving Permits The State of California does not recognize an International Driving Permit IDP as a valid driver license DL. California does recognize a valid driver license that is issued by a foreign jurisdiction country, state, territory of which the license holder is a resident. The IDP is only a translation of information contained on a person's foreign driver license and is not required to operate a motor vehicle in California. Citations issued to a person in California who has an IDP, but does not have a California driver license will be placed on the Department of Motor Vehicle database. The IDP is also called an International Driver License, International License, etc. For more information about travel and driver licensing requirements outside of the US, visit. The length of the DUI program you are required to complete varies from 12 hours to 30 months, and is based on the violation, number of prior DUI-related convictions, and type of program offered in a specified county. For a directory of licensed DUI program providers, click on the following link: For more information about which DUI program you are required to complete, contact the Municipal Court in the county where you appeared for sentencing for the DUI violation, or DMV at 916 657-6525. I was on a court-ordered probation for a driving under the influence DUI conviction and have been arrested for DUI. An officer will serve you an immediate order of suspension if you have a blood alcohol content level BAC of 0. This is an action. You are not eligible for a restricted driver license DL during your suspension. The chart below shows the length of your suspension. Administrative Per Se APS Action Chart While on court-ordered probation for a DUI conviction, you... You may request a hearing from DMV within ten 10 days of receipt of the suspension by contacting a local. When are you required to report an accident to DMV? Each driver must make a report to DMV within ten 10 days, whether you caused the accident or not and even if the accident occurred on private property. You must complete a PDF and submit it to the DMV, either in person or you may mail the SR1 to the address below for processing. Department of Motor Vehicles Financial Responsibility Mail Station J-237 PO Box 942884 Sacramento, California 94284-0884 If you do not submit this report, your driving privilege will be suspended. DMV may ask your insurance company to verify that you had coverage in effect at the time of the accident. If you did not have insurance, your driving privilege will be suspended for one 1 year. To get your driver license DL back, after the suspension, you will need to provide proof of financial responsibility and maintain it on record for three 3 years. The accident may count as one 1 point on your driving record. For information about violation points and your driving record, see For information about what vehicle section violations count as negligent operator points, see common California For additional information regarding accident reports, call the Financial Responsibility section at 916 657-6677. What alternative methods are available for completing the driver license knowledge tests? DMV offers alternative methods for completing the driver license DL knowledge tests including audio and Person-to-person examiner asks the questions. It is advisable for an applicant with special needs to discuss those needs with a DMV supervisor to allow them to better assist the applicant. Interpreters cannot be used to administer a commercial driver license CDL knowledge test. Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing, DMV will not administer knowledge tests within 30 minutes of closing. See hours of operation for the you are visiting. What languages is the knowledge or audio test available in? The commercial driver license CDL knowledge tests are available in English and Spanish. Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing, DMV will not administer knowledge or audio exams within 30 minutes of closing. See hours of operation for the you are visiting. What is the California motorcyclist training course? The California motorcyclist training course Basic Rider Course is provided by the California Motorcycle Safety Program CMSP and is administered by the California Highway Patrol CHP. The CMSP is California's official motorcycle safety and training program. All riders in California under 21 years of age must successfully complete this course to obtain a motorcycle driver license DL or endorsement. Upon successful completion of the course, you will be given a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training DL 389. For information about the motorcyclist training course visit , or call 1-877-743-3411. What happens if I fail my Noncommercial Class C or motorcycle driving test? To make a driving test , go online or call 1-800-777-0133 during regular business hours of 8 a. What do I need to do to get my driver license if I fail the driving test on all three 3 tries? If you fail your driving test on all three 3 tries, you will need to start another driver license DL application. NOTE: If you are under 18, your parent s or guardian s must sign the application form. If you are under 18 years of age, you must provide your driver education and driver training certificates again. After you are issued a new instruction permit, you may schedule an to retake your driving test. What happens if I lose my instruction permit? If you lose your instruction permit, you may apply for a duplicate. Make an to apply for your duplicate instruction permit. Why do I need to bring my instruction permit to my driving test if I am over 18 years of age? Regardless of age, a person must have in their immediate possession a driver license DL or Instruction permit of the appropriate class to operate a motor vehicle. If I lose my driver's education certificate, will I be able to take my driving test? If you lose any of your completion certificates driver's education, driver's training or motorcycle course completion , contact the issuing school and request a duplicate. What can I expect during the Noncommercial Class C driving test? The Noncommercial Class C driving test is used to determine your driving competency. You must provide a vehicle that is safe to drive and insured. When you appear for your driving test, the driving test examiner will ask to see your if you are a minor , and for your vehicle. Your driving test begins with a vehicle safety check. This pre-drive inspection demonstrates that you are familiar with your vehicle and that your vehicle meets the DMV's minimum safety requirements. If your vehicle does not meet the minimum safety requirements, your driving test will be rescheduled. You will also be asked to demonstrate the arm signals for right and left turns, and for stopping or slowing down. The examiner will ask you to drive out of the DMV driving test line and the driving portion of your test will begin. Your examiner is an observer only and will only speak to give you instructions ahead of time on what driving maneuvers you are to perform. The examiner will not try to trick you or ask you to do drive illegally. Your examiner will be marking your score sheet during your driving test. If you make a critical driving error CDE , you will be given an unsatisfactory test score failure. A CDE is a dangerous or potentially dangerous driving maneuver. The examiner will also go over your score sheet with you, and explain any mistakes you made and stress areas that need improvement. If you are under 18 years old, you are required to wait 14 days 2 weeks , not including the day the test was failed, before taking another driving test. Study the to help you with practicing your driving skills and the to familiarize yourself with the laws of the road. Review the brochure for additional information. What is a suspended driver license? A suspended driver license DL means a person's privilege to drive a car is temporarily withdrawn. The DL may be suspended by either DMV or the court. How long will my DL be suspended? The length of your suspension depends on the reason for the action. Contact DMV at 1-800-777-0133 during regular business hours of 8 a. Please have your DL number and any other information sent to you from DMV available. If my DL is suspended, how can I get it back? The steps you take to get your DL back depend on the reason s it was suspended. The following examples give you an idea of what you might need to do. If your DL was suspended for: Being a negligent operator. NOTE: A restricted DL may be issued prior to the completion date of the mandatory suspension period if certain restriction requirements are met. Was involved in a car accident and did not have proof of financial responsibility car insurance. You will be given an FTA abstract that says you fulfilled this requirement from the court. Contact DMV at 1-800-777-0133 during regular business hours of 8 a. Please have your DL number and any other information sent to you from DMV available.
Note: Messenger service fees may apply for these services. To replace your stolen card, follow the steps on replacing your card and bring a copy of your police report with you. It is illegal for you to drive alone at any time. Replacing a Lost License Our goal is to give you the most up-to-date, accurate information about your state DMV's processes. To ensure your identity is secure, the DMV will validate your photograph, social security number, and your personal information. This person must be close enough to you to take control of the vehicle if necessary.
