On September 30, the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) made a significant announcement: drivers aged 70 and older will no longer need to take a written knowledge test when renewing their driver’s licenses.

DMV Director Steve Gordon explained the rationale behind this decision during a statement. “Previously, all drivers had to pass a written test upon turning 70 and when their licenses expired,” he noted. “Although this policy has been around for some time, it was never legally required.” Gordon believes that eliminating the written test for drivers without traffic violations will significantly improve customer service. “If thousands of drivers no longer have to visit the DMV, it can really help reduce wait times for everyone else.”

However, it’s important to point out that these older drivers will still need to visit a DMV office for a vision test and to have their photo taken to complete their renewal.

Gordon also stressed that first-time applicants and those with poor driving records are still required to take the written test. In addition, several specific conditions will trigger the need for the test: if drivers have had two or more accidents in the two years before their license expiration, three or more accidents in the three years before, a DUI revocation within the last two years, or have accrued more than one point on their driving record in the two years leading up to expiration.

For some individuals with licenses set to expire in 2024, notifications about the knowledge test requirement may have already been received. However, they will be exempt from this requirement when they go to the DMV for their renewal. The DMV encourages drivers to take advantage of its website to minimize or eliminate the need for in-person visits altogether.