Ask the DMV – The California DMV offers specialized options for seniors over 70 years old

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Sept. 23, 2022) — The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) wants to help you maintain your driving independence for as long as you can drive safely.

The DMV offers resources to help you take care of your DMV tasks from the comfort of your home or at your local field office.

California drivers, aged 70 years or older, have until the end of 2022 to take advantage of a temporary rule that offers driver’s license or identification (ID) card renewal online or by mail, even if a renewal notice states that the driver is required to visit a DMV field office. If you still need to apply for your REAL ID for the first time you will still need to visit a DMV field office to complete the application process.

You can shorten your in-person visit at the DMV by starting the REAL ID application online and uploading the required documents before making an appointment at a field office.

Q1: Are there other alternatives for DMV services besides online or in-person?

A1: The DMV continues to develop innovative approaches to streamline processes and limit the time customers spend in field offices by offering many services online that used to require an office visit. In many instances, the customer starts the process online and then is contacted later by a DMV representative through email to complete the transaction. The DMV also increased the number of items that can be taken care of at a kiosk as well as increased kiosk language options.

Q2: I am 70 years old and need to renew my license, but do not feel safe coming to a DMV office. What can I do?

A2: Until the end of 2022, eligible senior drivers and REAL ID cardholders can renew noncommercial driver’s license and ID cards at dmv.ca.gov/online or by mail, even if your renewal notice states a visit to a DMV office is required.

Q3: Once I receive my renewal notice in the mail, how long should I wait to renew my driver’s license or ID card?

A3: If you choose to take advantage of the DMV’s online services to renew, you should try to do so upon receiving your renewal notice in the mail. Keep in mind that driver’s licenses and ID cards generally arrive in the mail within two to four weeks following renewal.

For more information or answers to questions not listed here, please visit www.dmv.ca.gov.