Today, the DMV offers many services. They are responsible for
registering California vehicles, collecting taxes on them, and making
sure that vehicles driven in California meet California pollution
control standards. They are also responsible for managing California
drivers, making sure that all licensed drivers are not only physically
and mentally capable of driving, but also that they have enough
knowledge to be able to drive safely. The California DMV accomplishes
this task by testing new drivers, issuing licenses, and revoking them
when it becomes obvious that a driver is abusing his or her driving
privileges.
Naturally, the driver's license program is one of the most commonly
used DMV services. What do you need to do to get a California driver's
license? If you are over 18, you'll need to visit your local DMV
office, pass the written driving exam and a vision test, and provide
the following documentation:
- A completed driver's license application form (DL 44)
- A picture and a thumbprint
- Proof of social security number (Social Security card, Medicare
card, US Army ID Card, or a Military Separation Document)
- Verification of birth date and legal presence in the US
- Proof of your true full name
If this is your first driver's license ever, you'll then be issued a
learner's permit so that you can practice driving with a licensed
driver in the vehicle with you. If you were licensed in another
country, you can get your license immediately as long as you pass the
road test demonstrating that you understand the rules of the road in
California. If you have a valid license from another state, the road
test is not a requirement.
If you are under 18, you will get a permit before you get your actual
license. To get your permit, you'll need all the documents listed
above, plus:
- A parent or legal guardian must sign for you, agreeing to be
responsible for any damage you cause while you are behind the
wheel.
- You provide proof that you have taken and passed the classroom
portion of driver's ed.
Driving University offers an excellent online course that is
approved by the DMV!
To get your license, you'll have to practice driving with your
permit for 6 months, take the required driver training class for
behind-the-wheel practice, show proof of insurance, and pass the road
test.
When you apply for your driver's license, remember that you can also
register to vote at the DMV.
Other Services
The California DMV also tracks accidents and violations for drivers
with California licenses. These are recorded on your California driving
record. The DMV monitors the number of incidents on your driving record
through its negligent operator point system. If you get too many
points, you could be deemed a negligent operator and have your license
suspended. You can request a copy of your driving record either by
going to your local DMV office with your ID or by mail. You'll need to
complete form INF 1125 and pay
a $5 fee to the DMV to get a copy of your record. If you are requesting
your record by mail, send your request to the following address:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Office of Information Services
Public Operations Unit G199
P. O. BOX 944247
Sacramento, California 94244-2470
Also, for your convenience, California DMV offices offer the option of
making an appointment to see a DMV representative instead of having to
wait in line. You can even make an appointment online, by clicking here.
One other lifesaving service operated by the California DMV is the
California Donate Life Organ Donor Registry. This registry gives people
aged 18 or over the option to register as a donor with the state of
California. Previously, donors would simply have their desire to be a
donor noted on their driver's license, but the donor's family often was
not aware of their decision and would sometimes decline to donate their
organs after death. By signing up with the California Donate Life
registry, your intent to donate is on file with the state of
California, and if the opportunity arises for you to be a donor, your
wishes are guaranteed to be respected.
