Key takeaways
- California licenses are generally valid for five years, and you can renew online within 90 days before or 12 months after expiration if you qualify.
- Since October 2024, most drivers with no violations no longer take a written test to renew.
- Drivers 70 and older must renew in person every five years, though they can start the application online.
A California driver's license generally expires on your birthday five years after it was issued. The DMV sends a renewal notice ahead of time. Renew on the official site, dmv.ca.gov; we're an independent guide and can't renew for you.
Can you renew online?
According to the DMV, you can usually renew online if:
- you're within 90 days before, or up to 12 months after, your expiration date;
- you aren't changing your address or personal description (update your address first: see change of address);
- you're not getting a REAL ID for the first time, which requires an office visit; and
- it's not a commercial license.
If you don't qualify, start the application online and finish it at a DMV office with an appointment.
The fee
The DMV's licensing fee page lists $46 for an original or renewed Class C license. Prices can change, so confirm on dmv.ca.gov before you pay. There's no extra late fee for renewing an expired license, but driving on an expired license isn't allowed.
Is there a written test?
Since October 1, 2024, the DMV no longer requires the written knowledge test for most renewals by drivers without traffic violations. A test may still be required if your record shows, for example, two or more accidents or a DUI suspension in the two years before expiration. Drivers with points on their record may be able to take a short online eLearning course instead.
New drivers and people moving to California from another state still take the knowledge test.
Drivers 70 and older
The DMV requires drivers 70 and older to renew in person every five years. You can start the application online to save time, then visit an office to finish. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them to drive.
What to bring to an office visit
- Your current license.
- Payment (card, check or cash, depending on the office).
- Glasses or contacts if you wear them to drive.
- Your confirmation code if you started online.
- If you're upgrading to a REAL ID at the same time, the documents on the REAL ID checklist.
Lost or stolen license?
You can request a replacement online. The DMV's fee page lists $37 for a replacement license.
Your renewal timeline
| When | What happens |
|---|---|
| Before expiration | DMV mails a courtesy renewal notice. If yours doesn't arrive, you can request a paper renewal notice. |
| 90 days before expiration | The online renewal window opens, if you qualify. |
| Your birthday in the expiration year | Your license expires. You can't legally drive on it after this date. |
| Up to 12 months after expiration | You can still renew online if you qualify. There's no late fee. |
| After an office visit | You get a temporary license valid for 60 days. Your new card should arrive by mail within three to four weeks. |
Common mistakes
- Trying to change your address during online renewal. Online renewal can't change your address, date of birth, physical description or license class. Update your address first.
- Expecting a REAL ID from online renewal. A first-time REAL ID needs an office visit.
- Forgetting your glasses at an in-person visit, if you wear them to drive.
- Driving after the expiration date because there's no late fee. Renewing late costs nothing extra, but driving on an expired license isn't allowed.
Frequently asked questions
Can I renew my California driver's license online?
Yes, if you qualify. You must be within 90 days before or 12 months after your expiration date. You also can't be changing your address or personal description, getting a REAL ID for the first time, or renewing a commercial license.
How much does it cost to renew a driver's license in California?
The DMV's licensing fee page lists $46 to renew a Class C license. Fees can change, so check dmv.ca.gov before you pay.
Do I have to take a written test to renew my license?
Most drivers don't. Since October 1, 2024, DMV no longer requires the written knowledge test for most renewals by drivers without traffic violations. A test may still apply if your record shows, for example, two or more accidents or a DUI suspension in the two years before expiration.
Is there a late fee for renewing an expired California license?
No. DMV doesn't charge an extra fee for renewing late. You still can't drive on an expired license, so renew before your birthday if you can.
How long does it take to get my new license?
After you finish an in-person renewal, DMV gives you a temporary license valid for 60 days. Your new card should arrive by mail within three to four weeks. If it hasn't come after 60 days, check your status online.
A temporary paper license isn't accepted at TSA checkpoints. See REAL ID and flying if you have a trip coming up.
Can I renew my license online if I'm over 70?
No. Drivers 70 and older must renew in person every five years. You can start the application online to shorten your office visit. If DMV says you need a knowledge test, you can choose the eLearning option when you complete the online application.
Can I get a REAL ID when I renew?
Yes, but not online if it's your first REAL ID. Start the application online, then visit a DMV office with your original documents. Use the REAL ID document checklist so you bring the right papers.
Sources
We use primary sources: statutes, court rules, official forms and government pages. Read our editorial standards.