Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to file a police report if my license was lost or stolen?

The Oregon DMV advises that you file a police report for your lost or stolen driver s license if you feel that you have been the victim of identity theft or identity fraud. If you are claiming identity theft, you must also contact your bank and the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-438-4338. The DMV can help if you can provide evidence that your driver s license or ID card number was used for fraudulent purposes. Contact the DMV office at 503-945-5000 for questions regarding possible identity theft.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Oregon Driver’s License or ID Card

How can I obtain a copy of the driver manual?

To get your drivers license, you can obtain a copy of the Oregon Driver Manual on the Oregon DMV website. The Class C driver manual is available in both English and Spanish. There, you can also find English and Spanish audio versions of the driver s manual. A CD copy of the audio driver manual is available for check out at most Oregon public and high school libraries. You may also obtain a hard copy at your local DMV office.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Oregon

How can I renew my drivers license?

You can apply for a drivers license renewal at your local Oregon DMV office. Approximately two months prior to your driver s license expiration date, you may receive a postcard from the DMV reminding you to renew your drivers license. As with applying for a new driver s license, you must fill out a Driver License Application and provide the following:

Proof of legal name
Proof of legal presence in the U.S., date of birth, and identity
Proof of your residence address, if it has changed
Social Security Number

Senior drivers 50 years old or more must also pass a vision screening test to renew drivers license credentials.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Oregon

How do I apply for a drivers license?

If you would like to apply for a drivers license in the state of Oregon, you must apply in person at your local DMV office.

If you are 18 and over you must:

Be a resident of Oregon.
Provide the following:
- Proof of full legal name
- Proof of legal presence in the United States, date of birth, and identity
- Proof of residential address
- Social Security Number
Submit a signed and completed Driver License Application
Pass the driving test (You only need to take a driving test if it is your first time ever applying for a driver s license)
Pass the Class C Knowledge Test

If you are less than 18, you must provide proof of name, citizenship status, date of birth, residence, and Social Security Number, in addition to meeting the following requirements:

Be at least 16 years old.
Submit proof of school enrolment status.
Have had a driver s permit from Oregon or another state for at least six months.
Complete the required amount of supervised behind-the-wheel driving experience.
Submit a completed Driver License Application signed by a parent or legal guardian.
Pass the driving test or present the Driver Education Certificate of Completion card.
Pass the Class C knowledge test if you do not have a learner s permit.
Pass the Safe Driving Practices knowledge test.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Oregon

How do I get a hardship license?

To apply for a hardship permit as the result of a drivers license suspension in the state of Oregon you must:

Fill out a Requirements for a Hardship/Probationary Application.
Include any applicable document for the kind of driving privileges you are applying for.
Pay the application fee.

Mail your application packet to:

DMV – Driver Suspension Unit

1905 Lana Ave NE

Salem, OR 97314

For more information: Suspended License Information for Oregon

How do I get a replacement license if I am in the military and stationed elsewhere?

If you are a military member and you are stationed out of state, you can apply for a replacement drivers license through the Valid-with-Previous-Photo (VWPP) Application process. You must have a photo on file with the DMV that is no older than nine years and two months, in order to qualify for the VWPP driver s license. You must request a VWPP packet from the DMV via an online request portal. When your packet arrives, you will be asked to provide the following information before you send it back to the Oregon DMV:

Copy of your military ID
Proof of your Social Security Number
Copy of most recent Leave Earning Statement (LES) with Oregon as your home on record

Military spouses and dependents must follow the same procedure to apply for a replacement drivers license if they are located out of state

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Oregon Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I obtain a duplicate license?

To obtain a duplicate driver s license from the Oregon DMV, you must apply in person at your local DMV office and fill out a Driver License Application. Along with that, you must also provide the following information:

Proof of full legal name
Proof of legal presence in the U.S., identity, and date of birth
Social Security Number
Proof of residence address, if it has changed

You will be issued an interim driver s license to use until your replacement arrives in the mail.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Oregon Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I reinstate after a revocation as a Habitual Traffic Offender?

The Oregon DMV Habitual Offender Program will revoke your driving privileges if you have committed 20 or more traffic violations within a five year period. If you are convicted of three or more criminal offenses within a five-year period, you may also have your driving privileges revoked. To reinstate revoked drivers licenses in the state of Oregon, you need to mail the necessary documents and fees to the DMV Headquarters. For a full list of the reinstatement requirements, you can submit an inquiry via an online form or write to the DMV at:

Oregon DMV Headquarters

1905 Lana Ave. NE

Salem, OR 97314

For more information: Suspended License Information for Oregon

How do I reinstate my suspended license?

To reinstate your driver s license in the state of Oregon, you need to mail the necessary documents and fees to the DMV Headquarters. Also, some reinstatement processes can be handled by your local DMV office. You will need to meet all legal obligations for your case and pay a reinstatement fee of $75 to the Oregon DMV. Fees are subject to change without notice. Contact the Oregon DMV at 503-945-5000 for more information on suspended drivers license reinstatement.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Oregon

How do I renew my license if I am in the military and stationed elsewhere?

If you are a military member and stationed out of state, you can renew drivers license through the Valid-with-Previous-Photo (VWPP) Application process. You must have a photo on file with the DMV that is no older than nine years and two months, in order to qualify for the VWPP driver s license. You must request a VWPP packet from the DMV via an online request portal. When your packet arrives, you will be asked to provide the following information before you send it back to the Oregon DMV:

Copy of your military ID
Proof of your Social Security Number
Copy of most recent Leave Earning Statement (LES) with Oregon as your home on record

Military spouses and dependents must follow the same procedure to renew driving licenses if they are also located out of state.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Oregon

How do I replace my license if I am a non-U.S. citizen?

Whether you are a citizen or a non-U.S. citizen, you must show proof of legal presence in the United States to obtain a replacement drivers license in the state of Oregon. Documents such as a permanent resident card, unexpired foreign passport, and stamped I-94 can be used in application for a replacement driver s license. You must also show proof of your residential address, along with your identity verifying documents. An example of proof of residency would be a utility bill in your name.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Oregon Driver’s License or ID Card

How do I replace my license if I lost it out of state?

If you lost your Oregon driver s license and are located out of state, then you may be able to apply for a duplicate driver s license through the mail. You may fill out an online inquiry form to find out if you are eligible to apply for a Valid-with-Previous-Photo (VWPP) drivers license. If you qualify, a packet will be mailed to you. You must submit information verifying your identity and send it back to the Oregon DMV. For assistance, contact the DMV at 503-945-5000.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Oregon Driver’s License or ID Card

How does the DMV check my vision?

The Oregon DMV checks for acuity and field of vision when testing your eyesight during a vision screening for a drivers license. The acuity level must be at least 20/70 when looking through both eyes, and the field of vision must be at least 110 degrees. Your vision test is taken with the use of your corrective lenses, if applicable. If you must wear corrective lenses during your vision test, the DMV will indicate on your license that you must wear your corrective lenses while driving to meet the eyesight standards.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Oregon

How long will I have a suspended license for not taking a chemical test?

The Oregon DMV will suspend your driver s license for one year if you refuse to take a blood test while receiving medical care after a vehicle collision. If you have had a previous vehicle and alcohol violation within the previous five years, then your driver’s license will be suspended for three years. You can also get a suspended drivers license if you refuse a blood test under medical treatment in another state.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Oregon

How soon can I renew my driver’s license?

You may receive a renewal notice in the mail around two months prior to your driver s license expiration date. If you would like to renew your driver s license sooner, then contact your local DMV office to find out the specific rules regarding how soon you can renew your driver s license. To apply for a drivers license renewal, you must appear in person at the DMV office with the following information:

Proof of legal name
Proof of legal presence in the U.S., identity, and date of birth
Proof of residence address, if it has changed
Social Security Number

At the time of application, you will receive an interim driver’s license to use until your permanent one arrives in the mail.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Oregon

If I file a police report, will my replacement fee be waived?

If your driver s license was stolen and you filed a police report, the Oregon DMV may be able to help. In cases of possible identity theft or identity fraud stemming from the use of your driver s license number, the DMV will determine whether or not to issue you a new driver s license with a new driver s license number. The DMV makes decisions on a case-by-case basis, so you must contact the DMV office to determine if your drivers license replacement fee can be waived in cases of identity theft.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Oregon Driver’s License or ID Card

Is there an age limit to renew your license?

There is not an age limit to renew your Oregon driver license. Though, if you will be 50 or older by the time your driver license expires, you must pass a vision screening. Once you reach 50 years old, you will have to pass a vision screening each time you apply for a drivers license renewal. If your license has been expired for more than one year, despite your age, you will have to apply for an original driver’s license. That includes re-taking the driver knowledge and skills tests.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Oregon

What address will my replacement license be mailed to?

Your replacement driver license will be mailed to the address you provide on your application. Your replacement license should arrive via mail within 5-10 business days. If for some reason it is found to be undeliverable to the address you provided, then it will be sent back to the DMV. You will be issued an interim driver s license to use until your replacement license arrives in the mail. You may contact the DMV at 503-945-5000 if you have questions regarding the whereabouts of your replacement card.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Oregon Driver’s License or ID Card

What are requirements for seniors to renew a driving license?

Senior citizens age 50 and over must have their vision tested every time they renew their driver s license. If visual acuity is tested to be worse than 20/40, the driver may be restricted to daytime driving only. Those with limited vison who use bioptic telescopic lenses may also be eligible for a restricted drivers license.

You can dispute the DMV vision screening test results and receive unrestricted driving privileges by getting permission from an eye care professional. In this case, submit a completed Certificate of Vision form signed by licensed vision specialist to the DMV office.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Oregon

What are some violations that may constitute in a suspended license?

Some of the most common violations that result in a suspended drivers license or revocation in Oregon are the following:

Failure to appear/comply for a traffic violation
Failure to pay child support
Underage alcohol offense
DUI
Habitual Offender

For more information: Suspended License Information for Oregon

What are the consequences of driving with a suspended license?

There are severe consequences for driving with a suspended drivers license in the state of Oregon. Your driver license could be permanently revoked. You could also face any number of different consequences such as:

Jail time.
Fines.
A longer suspension period.
Reinstatement fees.

Contact the Oregon DMV at 503-945-5000 for specific information regarding consequences for driving with a suspended license.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Oregon

What are the fees for a duplicate drivers license?

There is a fee to apply for duplicate driver s licenses in Oregon. Currently, it costs $26.50 to replace your Oregon driver s license. You must apply in person at your local DMV office. If your driver s license is going to expire within 14 months, you may be eligible to apply for a renewed driver s license instead of a replacement one. The driver s license renewal fee is $40. All prices are subject to change without notice. Contact your local DMV for an up-to-date schedule of fees.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Oregon Driver’s License or ID Card

What are the reinstatement fees I will have to pay for a suspended license?

The current fee to reinstate a suspended or revoked driver license in Oregon is $75. However, depending on the circumstance other fees such as, replacement, renewal, and/or original insurance fees may apply in order to regain your driving privileges. Court fines are also a cost to consider to reinstate suspended drivers license. You may contact the Oregon DMV via mail, phone, or online inquiry for a complete list of reinstatement requirements. Fees are subject to change without notice.

Oregon DMV Headquarters

1905 Lana Ave. NE

Salem, OR 97314

(503) 945-5000

For more information: Suspended License Information for Oregon

What are the suspensions eligible for a hardship license?

In Oregon, certain drivers license suspensions are eligible for a hardship permit. The hardship permit restricts your driving to certain activities such as:

Going to and from work.
On-the-job driving.
Seeking employment.
Participating in a substance abuse program.
Getting required medical treatment.

You cannot qualify for a hardship permit if your license was suspended or revoked for a traffic crime or if you violated the restrictions of another hardship or probationary permit.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Oregon

What do I need to do to get my driver’s license if I fail the driving test?

If you fail the driving test to get your Oregon state driver s license, you must wait a certain amount of time before you attempt to retake the test.

If you are under the age of 18, you must:

Wait at least 28 days after each time you fail to retake the test.
Have had a learner s permit for at least one month before you retake the test.
Wait one year to test again if receiving a failing score five times.

If you are over the age of 18 you must:

Wait at least seven days before retaking the test.
Wait at least 14 days to retake the road skills test if you fail the test a second time.
If you fail more than five times you must wait one year to test again.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Oregon

What documents do I need to get my drivers license?

The documents needed to apply for an Oregon driving license include:

Proof of legal name if different from the name listed on proof of residence documents
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce decree
- Court document
Proof of legal presence, date of birth, and identity
- Birth Certificate
Social Security Number provided on application
Proof of Residence
- Utility bill, letter from financial institution, etc.

If you are under 18 years old, you must also provide the following to get a drivers license in Oregon:

Proof of school enrolment, completion, or exemption
A valid drivers permit

Complete a Drivers License Application signed by a parent or legal guardian

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Oregon

What documents do I need to present to renew my drivers license?

To renew drivers licenses in the state of Oregon, you must present one document from each of the following categories:

Proof of full legal name
Proof of legal presence in the U.S., identity, and date of birth
Proof of residence address, if it has changed

You must also provide your Social Security Number on your Driver License Application at the time of renewal.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Oregon

What documents will I need to present to replace my drivers license?

To replace your driver s license in Oregon, you must provide documents that show proof of your:

Full legal name.
Legal presence in the U.S., identity, and date of birth.
Residential address, if it has changed.

One document from each category will fulfil the requirement. You will be issued in interim driver s license to use until your duplicate drivers license arrives in the mail.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Oregon Driver’s License or ID Card

What languages is the written test available in?

Both the Class C knowledge test and the Safe Driving Practices test for the state of Oregon driving license are available in the following languages:

English
Spanish
Arabic
Chinese
Japanese
Korean
Russian
Vietnamese

Audio assistance is also available in languages listed.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Oregon

What penalties will I face if I do not renew my expired drivers license?

Your Oregon driver license is valid up to eight years, and the DMV will mail out a driving license renewing reminder card two months before the expiration date. You have up to one year to renew your driver s license after it expires. After one year, you will have to follow the process of applying for an original driver s license. The process for a new driver license involves retaking the driver knowledge and skills tests.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Oregon

What should I do if I have not received my renewed license?

Once you apply for a drivers license renewal at your local DMV office, you will be issued an interim license to use until your new one arrives in the mail. At the time of your renewal application, your old driver s license will be hole punched and you may use that in conjunction with your interim driver s license to serve as proof of your identity until you receive your new driver s license in the mail.

If you have not received your new driver license in the mail, contact your local DMV office for more information.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Oregon

What tests will I need to take for my drivers license?

To apply for a drivers license in the state of Oregon you will need to take a computer-based knowledge test in person at the DMV office. Applicants under 18 and without a learners permit must also take the Safe Driving Practices knowledge test in addition to the Class C knowledge test. If you are under 18 or if it is your first time applying for a driving license, you will also need to take the driving test. Though, if you are under 18 and have passed a state-approved driver education course, you do not need to take the driving test at the DMV office.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Oregon

What type of noncommercial license will I need?

There are two types of noncommercial licenses in the state of Oregon. The Class C drivers license is for operation of a single motor vehicle not over 26,000 pounds and that does not carry more than 16 passengers total. Firefighters operating emergency vehicles are also included in this class. The other type of noncommercial license is a Class C restricted driver s license. It is issued for the operation of a moped, golf cart, or for a student permit.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Oregon

When can I reinstate my license after it has been suspended?

If you get your Oregon driver s license suspended, you will receive a notice in the mail of such action. The notice will also state how long you must wait before you can apply for reinstatement of driving privileges. A reinstatement code printed on your notice will advise you on what specific actions to take to reinstate your driving privileges. Most codes require you to pay a reinstatement fee of $75.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Oregon

When will I need to renew my license?

You will need to renew your driver s license before it expires. Oregon driver s licenses are valid up to eight years. As a courtesy, the Oregon DMV will send out a reminder postcard to your address on record approximately two months before your license is set to expire. You are still responsible for applying for your drivers license renewal even if you do not receive a reminder postcard. If you do not renew within a year of your drivers license expiring, you will have to apply for a brand new driver license.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Oregon

When will I receive a replacement license after applying?

After applying for a duplicate drivers license, your new driver s license will be sent through the mail. At the time of application, you will be issued an interim license to use until your duplicate license arrives. You should expect to receive your replacement license in five to 10 business days at the address you provided at the time of application. Keep in mind that DMV mail is not forwarded to other addresses, mail will instead be returned to the Oregon DMV. Contact your local DMV office if you have not received your replacement license after 10 business days.

For more information: Replace a Lost, Stolen, or Mutilated Oregon Driver’s License or ID Card

Where can I check to see if my license is suspended?

If your driver s license was suspended by the Oregon DMV, a notice will be sent to your address on record. You must surrender your driver s license to the DMV upon learning of your suspension, and stop driving on any roadways open to the public under your suspended drivers license. Many common offenses such as DUI and non-payment of child support can result in your driver s license being suspended. Contact the DMV to find out if a particular offence is subject to having your driving privileges revoked.

For more information: Suspended License Information for Oregon

Where can I get a new drivers license?

You can obtain a new drivers license in Oregon at any of the DMV offices located around the state. All Oregon DMV offices are closed on weekends. You can check for wait times online at the Oregon DMV website. Note that the Oregon DMV only accepts cash or checks as forms of payments at all of its locations. Credit and debit cards are not accepted. However, there are ATMs available at most locations for your convenience.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Driver’s License in Oregon

Will I be required to take a vision test for a drivers license renewal?

If you will be 50 years or older by the time your driver s license expires, you will be required to pass a vision screening at the DMV office. If you are less than 50, you do not need to have your vision checked. All drivers license renewal applicants will have to have their photograph taken along with providing the required documentation to renew a driver s license. You must also pay a renewal fee. All renewal applicants must declare that they are medically fit to drive on their Oregon Driver License Application.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Oregon

Will I get a drivers license renewal notice in the mail?

Yes, you will receive a drivers license renewal notice in the mail from the Oregon DMV. Approximately two months before your driver license expires, you should receive a postcard reminding you to renew your driver s license. In the case that you do not receive a driving license renewal notice, you are still responsible for making sure that you apply for a driver s license renewal before your current license expires. You must apply in person at your local DMV for a renewed driver s license. Oregon DMV offices are closed on weekends, hours vary by location.

For more information: How to Renew a Driver’s License in Oregon