California license renewal for older drivers
Drivers 70 or older when their license expires must renew in person and pass a vision test; other exams may be required. If a knowledge test is required, most 70+ drivers may choose the open-book, no-fail online eLearning course. DMV mails a renewal notice about 90 days before expiration. There are no age-based restrictions; restrictions are based on conditions, and reexamination is based on physical/mental condition or driving record, not age. Mature Driver Improvement Program: 8-hour course for drivers 55+ (certificate valid 3 years; 4-hour renewal course). Senior ID card is free at 62+.
Preparing for the renewal test
If you need to take a written or signs test to renew, it covers the same handbook as new drivers' tests. Our California practice tests and road signs test are free to use, and the read-aloud button can help if small print is hard to read.
Rules that may have changed since you first got your license
Some of the rules in today's California handbook are newer than many drivers' first test. Worth a look before renewal:
- Phones: Driving while using a handheld cell phone is illegal for all drivers. Adults should use a phone only in hands-free mode when necessary, mounted on the windshield, dashboard or center console, with a single swipe/touch; do not send or read texts or emails. Drivers under 18 may not use a cell phone or wireless device to answer calls or text while driving (FFDL 19: including hands-free), except to call for emergency help.
- Move over: Move over and slow down for stationary emergency vehicles or tow trucks displaying flashing amber warning lights, stopped road work vehicles with emergency flashing or amber lights, and stationary emergency vehicles with flashing emergency lights. For emergency vehicles using siren and red lights, drive to the right edge of the road and stop until they pass; do not follow within 300 feet of an emergency vehicle with siren or flashing lights on.
- School buses: When a school bus flashes red lights, stop from either direction and remain stopped until the children are safely across and the lights stop flashing. No need to stop if the bus is on the other side of a divided or multilane highway (two or more lanes in each direction). Flashing yellow lights mean slow down and prepare to stop. Failing to stop: fine up to $1,000 and possible one-year suspension. No stopping distance is given in the handbook.
- Alcohol: the limit for adult drivers is 0.08%.
Vision standard
You need 20/40 with both eyes together, and 20/40 in one eye and at least 20/70 in the other, with or without glasses or contacts (Snellen chart). If you fail, you are referred to an eye specialist to complete a Report of Vision Examination (DL 62). Applicants with acuity of 20/200 or worse may not be scheduled for a drive test. Passing with glasses or contacts adds a corrective lens restriction.
Source: California Department of Motor Vehicles, checked 2026-10-27.