How to Renew Your California Drivers License
California drivers license renewal doesn't have to be complicated. We've collected helpful information that will save you some time, and we offer links to resources that will get you going in the right direction. Select from the options below to get started.
1: Online application and checklist download
2: By mail, if eligible (read below for instructions)
3: In-person at a local DMV office
How to Perform California Drivers License Renewal In Person:
Drivers who wish to renew their California driver's license should adhere to the following steps:
- Visit the California Drivers License Renewal Department at their local DMV Office. Drivers who call ahead for an appointment may expedite the process.
- Fill out a California Drivers License Renewal Application Form (DL44). Drivers renewing a Commercial License will need to fill out a different form (DL44C).
- Present originals documents. Copies will not be accepted. Alternatively, a driver can bring their California driver's license renewal notice that they have received in the mail.
- Drivers may also be required to complete one of the following tasks: provide a thumb print, have a new photo taken, or pass a vision test.
California Drivers License Renewal of Commercial License
Commercial License holders seeking a renewal will need to fill out a 10 Year History Check Form (DL939). A commercial driver from another state, however, must use an alternate 10 Year History Check Form to renew their license (DL 10Y). Commercial driver's license holders are also required to produce a medical certificate (DL51A). They may also need to give a thumb print, have a photo taken, or pass a vision test. They will also be required to pay a $31 California Department of Motor Vehicles fee.
Commercial License holders will receive a renewal notice in the mail once expiration approaches. This notice will inform drivers if they are required to take a written exam on traffic rules and sign identification for renewal. If they are required to take this test, they must correctly answer fifteen of eighteen questions to pass the exam. Drivers are allowed three attempts to pass this test. After checking all personal details and informing the representative of any irregularities, drivers will be provided with a ninety day provisional license, which will be valid until their photo license arrives in the mail.
California Drivers License Renewal By Mail
Drivers may renew a California drivers license by mail if:
- Their old license expires in less than 60 days.
- They are under the age of 70 on the date of expiration.
- Their license is not currently suspended or probationary.
- They have not violated any court orders in the last two years, and have not been issued a renewal by mail in the last five years.
A driver that has not received a renewal notice should fill out the appropriate renewal form (DL410 F0). Upon completion of their renewal form they will need to remit a $31 renewal fee to the California DMV.
Renew California Drivers License Online
A California drivers license renewal applicant that has received their renewal notice by mail (RBM), with a renewal identification number (RIN), may renew their driver's license via the internet if:
- They have secure internet access.
- Have had no changes in personal details.
- Have a verified Social Security Number (SSN) in the DMV's records.
- Have an active credit card (Visa, Master Card, American Express or Discover).
Drivers seeking to perform a California drivers license renewal online can go to the California DMV website. There they can locate the online services tab and select California drivers license renewal. They will be required to follow the instruction to complete their renewal online. A driver who is seeking to renew California drivers license and has questions can either visit the websites FAQ section or call the number listed for a local DMV for answers.
How to renew your California CDL License here.
