California Driver’s License Renewal [2026] – DMV Guide

How to renew your California driver’s license online or at the DMV in 2026. Complete guide with REAL ID requirements, vision test info, and renewal fees.

Replace or Renew Your Driver’s License in California

In Person

Currently, only four offices accept walk-ins as well as appointments; the rest are by appointment only. You can make an appointment online or by calling the DMV at 1-800-777-0133. You will receive a temporary license that will be valid for the next 90 days. You should receive your permanent license in the mail in the next 60 days.

Find a DMV office near you

Make an appointment online

Download DL 44 form

By Mail

Fill out either the renewal notice or the form. You are eligible to renew your license by mail if you meet the following requirements:

1. Your license will expire no later than 60 days from now.
2. You will be younger than 70 years of age on the day that your license expires.
3. You do not have a driver’s license from more than one jurisdiction.
4. You have not received two consecutive renewals by mail.
5. You are not on any kind of driving probation or license suspension.
6. You have not violated a written promise to appear in court within the last two years.

Online

You are eligible to renew online if you are eligible to renew by mail and meet the following additional requirements:

1. You have registered as a certified user with the DMV.
2. Your address and personal description have not changed.
3. The DMV has verified your Social Security number.
4. You can pay the $33 renewal fee electronically by credit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa), debit card, or eCheck.

Renew online