Overview: The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has announced that drivers aged 70 and older, whose licenses expire this year and beyond, will no longer have to complete a written knowledge test as of Oct. 1. The DMV is eliminating the written test for those without traffic violations on their record to improve customer service. However, an office visit is still required for an updated photo and a vision exam for those renewing their license, aged 70 and older. The DMV encourages customers to start their applications online to minimize the amount of time it takes for drivers to complete their application process at the office.

Alyssah Hall

The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) announced that drivers 70 years old and older, whose licenses expire this current year and beyond, will no longer have to complete a written knowledge test as of Oct. 1.

According to a statement from DMV Director Steve Gordon, prior to Sept. 30, all drivers were required to take a written test when they turned 70 as a policy requirement and not a requirement of law.

"We are eliminating the written knowledge test for those without traffic violations on their record to improve customer service," Gordon stated. "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."

However, an office visit is still required for an updated photo and a vision exam for those renewing their license, aged 70 and older. For customers with licenses that expire in 2024, some renewal notices may suggest that a knowledge test is essential, but it will be waived during the in-person visit.

To minimize the amount of time it takes for drivers to complete their application process at the office, the DMV encourages customers to start their applications online. The DMV has spent the last few years digitizing and improving services in the hope of enhancing customer service by reducing wait times and office congestion.

"First time drivers and those new to California will still be required to take a knowledge test, as will those renewal customers with poor driving records," according to the press release. "Those drivers up for license renewal who have points on their record will be eligible for the eLearning course, available in English, Spanish and Chinese."

The knowledge test will still be required for drivers who have certain marks on their record such as those who have 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 of the license; and a driving under the influence (DUI) suspension during the two years immediately preceding the expiration date of the license.

For information on the DMV and the their knowledge test update visit dmv.ca.gov.