California is home to over 9 million drivers aged 55 and older, with nearly 2.9 million of them aged 70 or older. While all drivers follow the same general traffic rules, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has specific regulations for senior drivers to ensure road safety. Here’s everything you need to know if you’re an older driver—or helping one—navigate California’s driving rules.
License Renewal Rules for Seniors in California
Who Needs to Renew in Person?
If you’re 70 or older, California law requires you to renew your driver’s license in person every five years. Unfortunately, you can’t renew online or by mail.
What Happens at the DMV During Renewal?
When you renew your license, the DMV will ask you to complete a few steps:
- Vision Test: This is a mandatory test, which you can take at the DMV for free or have it done by your own eye doctor. If you choose the latter, the test must be completed within six months before renewal, and your doctor must fill out a vision report form.
- Written Test: This test checks your knowledge of basic traffic laws.
- Driving Test: A driving test may be required only if the DMV has concerns about your ability to drive. Concerns might arise from a report by a doctor, police officer, or even a family member.
When the DMV Might Restrict a License
As people age, physical and mental changes can make driving more challenging. If the DMV determines that a senior driver is struggling, they may issue a restricted license instead of revoking it completely. Some common restrictions include:
- Must wear glasses or contact lenses
- No driving at night
- No driving on highways or freeways
- Limited driving during specific hours, such as rush hour
- Must use extra mirrors or seat supports
- Only allowed to drive within certain areas
- Special vision lenses, like bioptic telescopic glasses, required
How to Report an Unsafe Driver in California
If you’re concerned about someone’s ability to drive, anyone—family, doctors, police officers, or courts—can request the DMV to assess whether they’re still safe to drive. While you can’t report someone anonymously, your identity can be kept private.
There are two ways to file a concern:
- Write a letter to the local DMV Driver Safety Office explaining your concerns.
- Fill out a Request for Driver Reexamination form and submit it to the DMV.
Mandatory Reporting for Doctors
Doctors in California are required to report conditions that could affect a person’s ability to drive. This includes conditions like:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Conditions causing blackouts or loss of awareness
Doctors send these reports to the local health department, which then passes them along to the DMV. The DMV may require the driver to take additional tests or may revoke their license if needed.
Driving Improvement Programs for Seniors
California offers Mature Driver Improvement Courses for seniors who wish to improve their driving skills. These programs are not only great for boosting confidence behind the wheel but can also help lower car insurance rates in some cases.
How to Get a License Reinstated
If your license has been suspended or revoked, you can contact the local DMV Driver Safety Office for help. They will guide you through the necessary steps to get your license reinstated.
Parking Placards and Plates for Disabled Drivers
If you have physical issues that make walking or standing difficult, you may be eligible for a disabled parking placard or license plate. Common reasons for applying include:
- Heart, lung, or mobility problems
- Vision issues or blindness
- Loss of use of legs, feet, or hands
Who Can Approve Your Application?
A medical professional must sign your application, including:
- Doctor
- Surgeon
- Chiropractor (for foot or leg issues)
- Optometrist (for vision problems)
- Nurse practitioner or physician assistant
If you’ve lost both hands or a foot, you don’t need medical approval.
How to Apply
To apply, complete the Application for Disabled Person Placard or Plates (REG 195) form, get a medical professional to sign it, pay a $6 fee for temporary placards, and submit the form online or by mail. Permanent placards and plates are free and must be renewed every two years, which can be done online or by mail.
Help from the DMV Senior Ombudsman Program
California’s Senior Ombudsman Program offers help to older drivers, ensuring they’re treated fairly. The ombudsman can assist with questions, DMV-related issues, or information about staying safe on the road.
Contact the Senior Ombudsman by phone:
- Sacramento/Northern California: 916-657-6464
- San Francisco/Oakland: 510-563-8998
- Southern California (Orange, San Bernardino, San Diego): 714-705-1588
- Los Angeles/Oxnard: 310-615-3552
California has specific rules for senior drivers to ensure safety for everyone on the road. By staying up-to-date on license renewals, understanding restrictions, and taking part in driving improvement programs, older drivers can continue driving confidently and responsibly. If you’re concerned about a senior driver’s abilities or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact your local DMV or ombudsman for help.
