Last Updated on April 2, 2020 by CCAR Staff
Californians over 70 years old with an upcoming expiring driver license will automatically receive a 120-day extension during the coronavirus pandemic, officials said Wednesday.
DMV offices across the state closed on Friday. Two weeks ago, to reduce foot traffic, the California Department of Motor Vehicles stopped behind-the-wheel driving tests and taking walk-in customers and went to appointments only – those appointments have now been canceled.
Offices will re-staff on Thursday so people can be assisted online.
“The DMV is providing a 120-day extension to Californians age 70 and older with a driver license that expires from March 1 to May 31, 2020,” the DMV said in a statement. “This action ensures this vulnerable group can avoid a DMV office visit during the (coronavirus) pandemic.”
Officials said no individual action is required by people 70 or older with driver licenses expiring in the given time window. Those eligible drivers will receive a paper license in the mail starting in the next two weeks.
Additionally, all people with safe driving records who last visited the DMV within the last 15 years will not be required to renew in person for the next 60 days, and will be able to renew online or by mail, the department said.
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order on March 30, temporarily waiving the requirement for Californians with safe driving records to renew their licenses in person at a DMV office, for the next 60 days. In-person renewals for identification cards have also been temporarily suspended.
Those who meet the criteria for renewals who are under 70 will be able to renew online starting on Wednesday, April 8.
People who lost or had their license stolen can request a duplicate license online for $30, but only if that license doesn’t expire in the next 30 days.
DMV officials said that offices will continue to provide essential services through mail, online, kiosks and its call center at 800-777-0133. A list of ways the DMV provides service is on the DMV’s website here.
The DMV also requested that law enforcement agencies throughout the state utilize more discretion in issuing citations for expired licenses and vehicle registrations.
