DMV Appointments in California

Before you visit a branch office, save yourself some time by booking any CA DMV appointments. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offers an Online Appointment System for scheduling driver- and vehicle-related services.

Services Covered by the DMV Appointment System

You can make your DMV appointments ahead of time for the following tasks:

Don't see your task listed?

If your task is not among those listed here, you cannot make an appointment for it—it's served on a walk-in basis only. Contact your local branch office if you have questions.

  • Behind-the-wheel driving tests.
  • Apply for, replace, or renew a California:
    • Driver's license.
    • ID card.
    • Instruction (learner's) permit.
  • Re-take a written knowledge test.
  • Register or title a vehicle or vessel (boat).
  • Order special license plates.
  • Request driver license or vehicle registration records.

Trying to avoid a trip to the DMV? Keep in mind that you may also be able to use the online services provided by the state and various third-party companies.

How to Schedule a DMV Appointment

Make an Appointment

Visit the California DMV's online appointment system to schedule your DMV appointment.

As previously mentioned, you can use the CA Department of Motor Vehicles' online appointment system to schedule most types of DMV visits.

You must, however, schedule an appointment by phone at (800) 777-0133, if you:

  • Want to schedule a commercial driver's license (CDL) road skills test.
  • Have specific questions about your appointment.

Confirming or Canceling Your Appointment

To view or cancel an upcoming appointment, visit the CA DMV's Appointment System and choose the "View or Cancel Appointment" tab.

What to Bring to Your CA DMV Appointment

Depending on what you'd like to do at the DMV, the documents you'll need to bring in will differ. Check out our checklists and guides for specifics on what you should bring when heading out to your various appointments.

CA Driver License and ID Appointments

Make sure you have the right documentation before heading out the door to your appointment for:

California Title and Registration Appointments

For your title and registration-related DMV visits, make sure you have everything you need when going in to request:

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