As of October 1, 2024, most Californians who are 70 and older, without traffic violations, are no longer required to take the written knowledge test, which was once required by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). This means that if you are 70 and older, with a poor driving record, the DMV still mandates that you take the written knowledge test. Be aware that the renewal notice that you receive in the mail might still indicate you have to take the written test, however the DMV will waive this for you once you go in for your in-person visit.
“All drivers have been required to take a written test once they turn 70 as a policy requirement and not a requirement of law,” said Steve Gordon, the Director of the California DMV. “We are eliminating the written knowledge test for those without traffic violations on their record to improve customer service.”
So what’s the catch? Those who are 70 and older, still need to make an in-person appointment with the DMV to complete a required vision exam and updated photo. Since the DMV implemented the new policy in an effort to lessen the number of visits people have to make to their office, they have provided other avenues for those who do not qualify to partake in the new policy.
What’s the other catch? Those who are 70 and older must renew their driver’s license in-person every 5 years. However, rest assured that you will be notified plenty of time in advance, as the DMV will send renewal notices 60 days from the time your license expires. Once you receive your renewal notice, you simply visit the DMV website to start your driver’s license renewal application.
Those who are up for renewal, but have a poor driving record, may opt to take an eLearning course. The course is a 20-30 minute no-fail, self-paced, exam that you may take from the comfort of your home. The course also bridges the language gap for those not fluent in English by providing the course in Spanish, Traditional Chinese, Korean, Kher, Thai, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Japanese, and Hindi. The DMV mandates drives who meet the following conditions to take the knowledge exam:
- Tow 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 of the license;
- A DUI suspension during the two years immediately preceding the expiration date of the license; or
- A violation point count greater than one within the two years immediately preceding the expiration date of the license.
The DMV strongly encourages those who are required to take the written knowledge exam to partake in the online program. If you are 70 and older, and are due for a renewal, start your application today!
