California has over 9 million drivers aged 55 and above, with nearly 3 million over 70 years old. While all drivers follow general traffic laws, the California DMV has extra rules for senior drivers to keep roads safe. If you’re an older driver or caring for one, this guide breaks down the key points you need to know in simple language.
License Renewal Rules for Seniors
If you are 70 or older, you must renew your driver’s license in person every five years. Online or mail renewal is not allowed. During renewal, the DMV will require:
A vision test, either for free at the DMV or done by your eye doctor (the test must be within six months).
A written test to check your knowledge of traffic laws.
A driving test only if there are concerns about your ability, often based on reports from doctors, police, or family members.
Possible License Restrictions for Senior Drivers
As people age, changes in vision, reaction time, or health may make driving harder. The DMV may issue restricted licenses instead of taking away a license. Common restrictions include:
- Wearing glasses or contact lenses while driving.
- No driving at night or during rush hours.
- No driving on highways or freeways.
- Using special mirrors or seat supports.
- Driving only within certain areas.
- Wearing special vision lenses like bioptic telescopic glasses.
Reporting Unsafe Drivers
Anyone—family, doctors, police, or courts—can ask the DMV to check if a driver is safe. Reports cannot be anonymous, but your identity is kept private. You can file a concern by sending a letter or filling out a “Request for Driver Reexamination” form at the DMV.
Mandatory Doctor Reporting
Doctors must report patients with conditions affecting driving, such as Alzheimer’s disease or illnesses causing blackouts. These reports go to the local health department and then the DMV, which may require the person to retake tests or revoke their license.
Driving Improvement Programs
California offers Mature Driver Improvement Courses for seniors who want to improve their driving skills and stay safe. Completing these programs can sometimes lower insurance costs too.
Getting Your License Reinstated
If your license is suspended or revoked, contact the local DMV Driver Safety Office for help. They will explain what steps to take to get your license back.
Disabled Parking Placards and Plates
If you have difficulty walking, standing, or other physical challenges, you may qualify for disabled parking placards or plates. Common reasons include heart, lung, mobility, or vision problems.
Applications must be signed by a medical professional like a doctor, surgeon, chiropractor, optometrist, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. If you have lost both hands or a foot, medical approval isn’t needed.
To apply, fill out the “Application for Disabled Person Placard or Plates (REG 195),” pay a $6 fee for temporary placards (permanent ones are free), and submit it online or by mail. Permanent placards renew every two years.
Support from the DMV Senior Ombudsman Program
The DMV offers Senior Ombudsmen who help older drivers with questions, problems, or concerns about DMV processes. They can guide seniors to make sure they are treated fairly.
- Contact numbers for Senior Ombudsmen:
- 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 supports senior drivers by requiring regular vision and knowledge tests, offering driving improvement courses, and providing help through the Ombudsman program. While seniors can drive safely for many years, the DMV may impose restrictions or require tests to protect everyone on the road. Staying informed and proactive about these rules helps older drivers maintain their independence safely.
