In a major move for older drivers, those who are 70 years old and older will no longer be required to take a knowledge test to renew their licenses, the California Department of Motor Vehicles announced on Monday, Sept. 30.
All drivers had been required to take the knowledge test once their license expired after turning 70, which had been a policy but not a law, DMV Director Steve Gordon said in a press release.
“We are eliminating the written knowledge test for those without traffic violations on their record to improve customer service,” Gordon said in a statement. “If thousands fewer people need to visit the DMV, or can spend less time in an office, the people who need to take care of their business in one of our offices can be better served.”
An office visit is still required for a vision exam and an updated photo for those 70 and older who are renewing a driver’s license.
First-time drivers must still take a knowledge test, which for years had been called the written test. So will newcomers to California who want a license.
For all renewing motorists with poor driving records or found responsible for a collision by law enforcement, there is a requirement to again take the test. Some can opt for the DMV’s eLearning course, which the driver largely can’t fail.
All drivers are still required to take the knowledge test, or eLearning, if their records meet any of the following conditions:
Two or more accidents during the two years immediately preceding the expiration of the license
Three or more accidents during the three years immediately preceding the expiration
A DUI suspension during the two years immediately preceding the expiration date
With two or more violation points within the two years immediately preceding the expiration
Some customers with licenses expiring in 2024 may have already received renewal notices that indicate a knowledge test is required, but it will be waived during an in-office visit.
DMV officials are encouraging customers to start their applications online to lessen the amount of time they are in a DMV office.
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