Key takeaways
- Most routine tasks, like registration renewal, license renewal, change of address, release of liability and replacement stickers or titles, can be done online at dmv.ca.gov.
- The DMV Virtual Office lets you upload forms and documents for review without visiting an office.
- A first-time REAL ID, drivers 70 and older renewing, and some title transfers still require an office visit.
The California DMV moved many services online. Here's what you can finish at dmv.ca.gov, what the Virtual Office handles, and when you still need to go in. We're an independent guide; always use the official site to complete a task.
Tasks you can complete online
Renew
- Vehicle registration (see how to renew)
- Driver's license or ID card, if you qualify (see renewing your license)
- Disabled person parking placard
- Planned Non-Operation (PNO), for vehicles off the road all year
Report or apply
- Change of address
- Notice of Transfer and Release of Liability when you sell a car (see selling a car)
- Start a driver's license, ID or REAL ID application (finished in person)
- Traffic accident report (SR-1), when required
Replace or order
- Lost license, registration card, sticker, title or plates
- Your driver or vehicle record
- Personalized plates
You can also check the status of some transactions and pay certain fees online.
The DMV Virtual Office
For tasks that need paperwork reviewed, the DMV says you can upload forms and documents through the DMV Virtual Office, and a DMV representative will review them and contact you. Services include registration renewals, PNO, replacement titles or plates, placards, and some commercial license tasks.
DMV Now kiosks
Self-service kiosks in DMV offices and some grocery stores can renew registration and print your sticker on the spot. Card payments carry a 1.95% service fee. Kiosks can't process address changes or accept proof of insurance for a renewal.
When you still need an office visit
- Getting a REAL ID for the first time.
- Drivers 70 and older renewing their license (start online, finish in person).
- License renewals that need a test or a new photo.
- Some title transfers and out-of-state vehicle registrations that need a vehicle inspection.
Book an appointment online at dmv.ca.gov to cut your wait.
Make sure you're on the official site
The DMV warns about fake websites that look like the official DMV site but charge unnecessary fees. Type dmv.ca.gov into your browser rather than clicking ads or unknown links. See How to spot unofficial DMV websites.
What to have ready for common online tasks
| Task | Have this ready |
|---|---|
| Renew registration | Last 5 digits of your VIN, and insurance that reports electronically to DMV |
| Renew your license | Be within 90 days before or 12 months after expiration, with no address or description change |
| Change your address | A California license or ID and a Social Security number |
| Release of liability | Plate number, last 5 digits of the VIN, odometer reading, sale date, and the buyer's name and address |
| Start a REAL ID application | Your identity, address and any name-change documents, ready to upload |
Having these in front of you before you start saves a second attempt.
Frequently asked questions
What can I do online with the California DMV?
You can do most routine tasks online at dmv.ca.gov. These include renewing your registration, renewing a license if you qualify, changing your address, filing a release of liability, and ordering replacement stickers, titles or plates. You can also start a REAL ID application and finish it in person.
Can I get a REAL ID online?
No, not for your first one. You can fill out the application and upload documents online, but you must finish at a DMV office with your originals. See the REAL ID document checklist.
What is the DMV Virtual Office?
It's a DMV service for tasks that need paperwork reviewed. You upload forms and documents, and a DMV representative reviews them and contacts you. It covers things like registration renewals, PNO, replacement titles or plates, placards and some commercial license tasks.
Can I change my address at a DMV kiosk?
No. DMV Now kiosks can't process address changes. Use the online change-of-address system instead. Kiosks can renew registration and print your sticker on the spot.
Can drivers 70 and older renew their license online?
No. Drivers 70 and older must renew in person every five years. They can start the application online to shorten the office visit.
How do I check the status of a DMV transaction?
You can check the status of some transactions online. For example, the DMV says you can check an address change by logging in to your MyDMV account.
Are websites that charge a "service fee" for DMV tasks official?
Not if the address isn't dmv.ca.gov. The DMV warns about lookalike sites that charge unnecessary fees. Learn the warning signs in how to avoid DMV scam websites.
Sources
We use primary sources: statutes, court rules, official forms and government pages. Read our editorial standards.