Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to take a motorcycle training course?

When it comes to getting a motorcycle license in CA, if you are under the age of 21, you will be required to complete a motorcycle training course, and thereafter present the certificate at the DMV. Although drivers over the age of 21 are not required to take this course, they are strongly encouraged to do so. For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in California

Am I required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle?

Yes, it is law in California to wear a safety helmet while riding and/or operating a motorcycle. Both the driver and his passenger must wear a helmet. This is part of California’s motorcycle endorsement laws.

For more information:How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in California

Can I renew my commercial drivers license online?

You will receive a renewal notice in the mail notifying you whether or not you have the option to renew online. If so, you can easily renew your California CDL license by visiting the CA DMV Driver License/Identification Card Renewal page.

Can I take the DMV written test online?

No, you cannot obtain a drivers permit online. You are required to take any tests in person at a local DMV office. For more information Provisional Permits for Beginner Drivers in California

Can I use my state CDL anywhere in the United States?

Yes, you can. Your commercial driver s license will be acknowledged regardless of what state you drive to and back from. However, drivers must be at least 21 years of age to obtain a CDL that allows them to drive a commercial vehicle between states. For more information: California Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Do I need a motorcycle license to ride a scooter or moped?

Yes, drivers who operate a moped in California are required to have Class M motorcycle license. If you operate a motorized scooter, holding any class drivers license will be sufficient. Keep in mind that a motorized scooter does not need to be registered.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in California

Do I need to take a drivers ed course?

Yes, the state of California requires young drivers to complete a drivers ed course or a driver training at either a secondary school or a state-licensed school. The classroom instruction you receive must be made up of a minimum 30 hours or two and a half semester periods.

For more information: Provisional Permits for Beginner Drivers in California

How can I get a veteran designation on my ID card?

California currently does not offer veteran designation logos when obtaining an identification card. However, discounted IDs are available to those who meet certain income requirements. For more information: How to Apply for a California Identification Card

How do I apply for a commercial drivers license?

If you are wondering how to get a CDL license, then you will need to be aware of a few, important factors. First, you will need to be at least 18 years of age and have already obtained a commercial instruction permit. In order to get a commercial instruction permit, you will need to schedule your appointment in person. Once there, you will be required to do the following:

Fill out a 10 Year History Record Check (DL 939)
Fill out a California Commercial Drivers License Application.
Present a completed Medical Examination Report (DL 51)
Get your picture taken and provide your thumb print.
Provide proof of your Social Security Number, date of birth and legal presence in the United States.
Pass a required vision test.
Pass the traffic laws and signs test for the vehicle in which you will operate.

In order to apply for your standard commercial drivers license, you will be asked to complete the requirements below:

Schedule your appointment in person.
Pass a pre-trip inspection.
Appear at the DMV with the vehicle for the class you wish to drive.
Pass a skills or driving test or present a Certificate of Driving Skill.

If you wish to obtain a hazmat endorsement, you will be required to undergo a background check by the Transportation Security Administration.

For more information: California Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I apply for a learner’s permit?

For drivers under the age of 18, California issues what is known as a provisional drivers license, also known as a drivers permit. State law requires drivers to obtain a California drivers permit before they are allowed to apply for a standard drivers license. To do so, you will be required to complete the following:

Take a written knowledge exam.
Present proof of driver education completion.
Present proof of your date of birth.
Present proof of your legal status in the United States.
Pass a vision exam.
Provide your fingerprint.
Provide proof of your complete name and proof of Social Security number.
Fill out a Driver License or Identification Application and include your parents signature.
Pay any required fees.

Once you have reached the age of 16 and held your instruction permit for six months, you will then have the opportunity to take your road skills test. For more information: Provisional Permits for Beginner Drivers in California

How do I apply for a motorcycle license?

In order to apply for a motorcycle license in the state of California, you need to be at least 16 years of age and have held your permit for six months. If you are under the age of 18, you will also need to show completion of drivers ed, along with completion of a motorcycle training course.

For those drivers who are over the age of 18, the following requirements must be met:

Pass a vision exam.
Pass the written exam.
Pass a skills test (if you do not have a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training)
Have your photo taken, along with your thumb print.
Complete a Drivers License Application.
Pay any applicable fees.

Additionally, drivers without a CA drivers license will need to present proof of legal status in the country, date of birth, complete name and Social Security Number.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in California

How do I get a duplicate ID card?

If your ID card was lost or stolen, you will easily be able to replace it by visiting a local DMV office. Once there, you will need to fill out a Driver License or Identification Card Application form DL 44 or DL 44C.

Your thumb print and picture will also be taken. To finalize the process, you will be asked to pay the required CA replace ID card fee of $28 before a new card can be issued to you.

For more information: How to Apply for a California Identification Card

How do I renew my driving permit?

The state of California requires drivers with an expired permit for driving to re-apply all over again. As a result, you will be asked to:

Present proof of full name, Social Security Number, legal presence and birth date.
Pass the written exam and vision test.
Pay the applicable fee.

Furthermore, if you are under the age of 18, your parents or legal guardian will need to provide their signature on the learners permit application.

For more information: Provisional Permits for Beginner Drivers in California

How do I renew my ID card?

The process to renew your California DMV ID card is very similar to applying for the first time. For example, an in-person visit to the local DMV office will be required to renew your ID card. However, you do not need to present verification of your birth date, legal presence in the United States or Social Security Number. Arrive with your $28 renewal fee and be ready to fill out the appropriate application.

For more information How to Apply for a California Identification Card

How do I renew my medical report for a commercial license?

Every two years, in order to maintain your license to drive commercial, you will be required to resubmit your medical certification. You can do so by asking your doctor or physician to fill out a new Medical Examination Report (DL 51) for you and submitting it to the DMV.

For more information: Commercial Driver s License

How do I renew my motorcycle license?

California offers the option to renew motorcycle credentials by mail, in person or online.

By Mail

To renew your motorcycle license by mail, there are certain requirements you must first meet. For example, you cannot have your license expiring within the next 60 days nor will you be allowed to renew if your license is suspended.

After filling out the appropriate application, mail your form along with any applicable fees to the below address:

Department of Motor Vehicles ATTN: Renewal By Mail Unit PO Box 942890 Sacramento, CA 94290-0001

In person

When renewing your motorcycle license in person at a local DMV office, make sure to present the appropriate application and have payment ready for any fees.

Online

To renew online, simply visit the Driver License / Identification Card Renewal page to get started. Only individuals who receive a renewal notice in the mail will have the option to renew online.

For more information: How to Renew/Replace a Motorcycle License in California

How does a military member obtain a motorcycle license?

In order for a military member to apply for a motorcycle license, you must fulfill the same requirements as other non-military individuals.

If you are currently stationed outside of California, you are not required to renew your motorcycle license upon its expiration date. Instead, you will have up to 30 days to renew upon returning to your home state. You will need to set an appointment in person at a local DMV office to get everything underway.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in California

How long do I need my learners permit before I can get my drivers license?

Before applying for your standard drivers license, California requires individuals to have an instruction permit. They must hold this CA learning permit for at least six months.

For more information: Provisional Permits for Beginner Drivers in California

How long will it take to get my new ID card?

When you apply for ID card credentials, it takes roughly 60 days to receive your ID card in the mail. If more than 60 days have passed since you applied, you are advised to call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to find out the status of your card. For more information: How to Apply for a California Identification Card

If I’m out of state and lost my ID, how can I get a new one?

If you lost your ID while traveling out of the state, you will need to wait until you are back home in order to replace your ID. Once you have returned home, you can simply visit your local DMV office, fill out a Driver License or Identification Card Application form and pay the $28 fee to obtain a California identification card replacement.

Be aware that you may also be asked to have your picture and thumbprint taken.

For more information: How to Apply for a California Identification Card

Is there a minimum age I have to be to get a commercial drivers license?

Yes, to obtain a commercial driver s license permit, you must be at least 18 years of age. If you wish to operate a commercial vehicle with a hazardous materials endorsement, or if you intend to drive it across state lines, then you must be 21 or older. For more information: California Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the age restrictions to ride a motorcycle?

If you are under the age of 18, you must obtain a motorcycle learners permit. You must hold this permit for at least six months before you eligible to take the motorcycle skills test.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in California

What are the available commercial license endorsements?

California allows drivers to apply for one of five different commercial endorsements:

P Passenger
S School buses
N Tank Vehicle
H Hazardous Materials
T Double/Triple Trailers

To get the proper endorsement on your driving license, you will need to bring proof of insurance, your permit and the vehicle in which you wish to drive. To apply for a CDL license, an in-person appointment at a l ocal DMV office will be necessary.

For more information California Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the fees associated with an ID card?

If you are a senior citizen, your CA ID card application fee will be waived. However, for a standard ID card whether you are renewing, replacing or obtaining an original, the fee is $28.

For a reduced-fee ID card (available to those who meet certain income requirements), the fee is $8. For more information: How to Apply for a California Identification Card

What are the learners permit restrictions during my first year?

The restrictions for driving with a California learning permit are as follows:

During the first twelve months of driving with your permit, if you are transporting passengers under the age of 20 and driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m., you must have a 25-year-old licensed driver accompany you.
You cannot be employed to drive a vehicle if you are under 18.

Some exceptions do apply to these restrictions. For more information: Provisional Permits for Beginner Drivers in California

What are the medical certifications required to obtain a CDL?

The state of California requires CDL license drivers to present a Medical Examiner s Certificate completed by a licensed doctor in the United States. The physician may be a doctor of osteopathy (D.O.), a licensed physician assistant (P.A.), a chiropractor or an advance practice registered nurse. For more information: California Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the penalties for getting a traffic ticket with a driver’s permit?

The state of California is very strict with drivers who are 21 or younger. If drivers with a learners permit commit any of the following violations and are caught by a law enforcement official, the penalties will include a suspension of driving privileges and traffic fines:

Not appearing in court after receiving a traffic ticket
Not paying CA traffic ticket fines
Three at-fault collisions and/or convictions in 12 months
Alcohol or drug use convictions
Habitual truant convictions, if you are between 13 and 18 years old
Fleeing an officer
Driving under the influence
Assaulting a driver
Committing a misdemeanor or felony
Driving recklessly
Hitting and running
Speeding

For more information: Overview of California Traffic Ticket and other Traffic Violation Issues

What are the requirements to operate a three-wheel motorcycle?

Drivers who wish to operate a three-wheel motorcycle are required to obtain a Class C driver license. Additionally, the motorcycle must be registered. For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in California

What documents do I need to get a learner’s permit?

In order to complete your California drivers permit application, you will need to present:

Proof of your date of birth
Proof of your legal presence in the U.S.
Proof of your full name
A drivers education completion certificate

If you are over 17 and a half years of age, your drivers ed completion will not be necessary. For more information: Provisional Permits for Beginner Drivers in California

What documents do I need to get a motorcycle license?

If you do not currently have a California drivers license in your possession, then you will be required to present the following when applying for a motorcycle driving license:

Proof of legal presence in the United States.
Proof of date of birth.
Proof of Social Security Number.
Verification of full name.

You will also be asked to complete a drivers license application.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in California

What exams do I need to pass to get a motorcycle license?

The exams you need to pass depends on your age at the time of applying for a California motorcycle endorsement. Overall, all soon-to-be motorcycle drivers must pass both a vision test, a written exam and a skill test (if they do not have a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training). However, if you are under 18, you must also complete drivers ed and a motorcycle safety training course.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in California

What happens to my commercial driver license if I am convicted of a DUI?

If you are convicted of driving under the influence and it is your first offense, your commercial driving license will then be suspended for a year. If you hold a hazardous materials transport commercial license, this CDL suspension will increase to three years. For second or more offenses, your license will be banned for life. You may also face additional consequences as the result of drinking and driving.

For more information: California DMV.com’s Commercial Drivers

What is an ID card?

An ID card is a form of identification that is often used by individuals who do not drive but wish to carry an identification document on their person. This is essential because a DMV ID card will allow you to enter government buildings, as well as travel at ease. Basically, anything that requires proof of identification, using your ID card will suffice.

For more information: How to Apply for a California Identification Card

What is the passing score for a written test?

You will be given three chances to pass the standard traffic laws and sign test, but you must wait seven days before re-examination should you fail the first or second time. In order to successfully pass the learners permit test, you will need to get at least 38 questions out of 46 correct. To obtain your CA driving permit on the first try, it is strongly encouraged that you study the Driver s License Manual and take the Driver s Practice Test beforehand.

For more information: Provisional Permits for Beginner Drivers in California

What test do I need to take for my learners permit?

In California, drivers obtaining a learning permit are required to pass a vision test and a traffic laws and sign test. You can find an office near you by using our CA DMV locator.

For more information: Beginner Drivers in California

What tests do I have to take to obtain a CDL?

To obtain your CDL, you will be required to pass a skills and driving test in the vehicle you intend to operate, as well as pass a pre-trip inspection. You may have the option of having your driving test waived if you are able to submit a Certificate of Driving Skill from your employer.

For more information: California Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

When does my ID card expire?

In the state of California, your ID card will be valid for six years. If you are a senior citizen, your ID card will be good for 10 years. In order to be considered a senior citizen, you must be over the age of 62. For more information: How to Apply for a California Identification Card

Where can I obtain an ID card?

You can obtain your California identification card at a local DMV office. You can find one in your area by using our DMV locator. For more information:How to Apply for a California Identification Card

Who can sign for my permit or license if I am under 18?

When getting drivers permit credentials, your parents or legal guardian can sign your application form. If their signature is not present, you will not be able to submit the application.

For more information: Provisional Permits for Beginner Drivers in California