DMV Extends Temporary Halt to Behind-the-Wheel Driving Tests Until January 4

This press release has been updated as of December 30, 2020: DMV Extends Suspension of Behind-the-Wheel Driving Tests Until January 11

Contact:  Office of Public Affairs
2415 First Avenue
Sacramento, CA 95818
(916) 657–6437 | dmvpublicaffairs@dmv.ca.gov

Offices remain open. Customers encouraged to go online first

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 21, 2020

Sacramento – The California Department of Motor Vehicles will continue its temporary suspension of behind-the-wheel driving tests until at least January 4. The DMV previously announced a two-week suspension through at least December 28. The DMV is taking this step for the health and safety of customers and employees during the current statewide surge in COVID-19 cases.

Customers with scheduled appointments through January 4 will be notified their tests are canceled. The DMV will automatically reschedule the tests at a later date. DMV drive test examiners will be redirected to assist with other customer transactions.

In-vehicle testing is a requirement for first-time driver’s license holders and commercial license applicants. The temporary suspension includes commercial and noncommercial tests, but does not apply to motorcycle drive tests, which can be conducted at a safe distance.

To protect customers and employees, the DMV requires everyone who enters the DMV to wear a face covering, physically distance and have their temperature checked. To best serve customers and maintain appropriate distance, the number of people allowed in the office is limited, chairs are appropriately spaced, and plexiglass has been installed.

Safety measures in place for behind-the-wheel tests include required face coverings, temperature checks, cracked windows for increased air circulation and seat covers.

While DMV offices remain open to serve the public, the DMV continues to encourage all customers to use its online services, expanded virtual services and other service channels to complete transactions, including eligible driver’s license and vehicle registration renewals. Nearly all Californians can now renew their driver’s license online – even if the renewal notice states an office visit is required. Customers can also use the Service Advisor on the DMV website to learn their options to complete DMV tasks.