Starting October 1, California drivers aged 70 and older will no longer be required to retake the written knowledge test when renewing their driver’s license, as long as they have no disqualifying factors, according to an announcement by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
The DMV has decided to ease the renewal requirements for senior drivers, a rule that had been in place for 40 to 50 years, in response to the growing aging population. Below is a Q&A summary of the key points from the DMV’s announcement.
– What is the most significant change?
“Previously, drivers aged 70 and older were required to take the written knowledge test when renewing their driver’s license. However, starting this year (2024), seniors will no longer need to retake the test, even if their license expires.”
– Why was the policy changed?
“With the increasing senior population, the DMV aims to help over three million seniors save time and money by eliminating the requirement for the written knowledge test.”
– What if a senior has already been notified to retake the test?
“The DMV has been sending notices requiring seniors to retake the written test. However, those visiting a DMV office for renewal will no longer be required to take the test.”
– What are the disqualifying factors for being exempt from the test?
“Drivers who have violated traffic laws will still need to retake the written test. This includes drivers who, have been involved in two or more accidents in the past two years, or three or more accidents in the past three years. Also, those who received a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) suspension in the last two years. And those who have accumulated more than one point on their driving record in the past two years will have to retake the test.”
– What steps must still be completed for renewal?
“While the written test is no longer required, seniors aged 70 and older still need to visit a DMV office for a vision exam and to have a new photo taken for their license.”
– Is the written test available online?
“Yes. For those still required to take the test, it can be completed online through the DMV website, offering a time-saving option.”
– What other online services are available?
“The DMV has expanded its online services from 20 in 2019 to 50 today. These include vehicle registration renewal, address changes, license renewals, requesting copies of driving records, reporting lost or stolen licenses, and applying for Real ID online.”
BY HYOUNGJAE KIM, YOUNGNAM KIM [kim.ian@koreadaily.com]
