Understanding the fees at the California DMV can be confusing, but planning ahead ensures a smooth transaction. The cost for a new driver’s license is different from a replacement, and ID card fees vary by age.
This guide provides a clear and concise breakdown of the most common licensing fees, including driver’s licenses, REAL ID, ID cards, and reinstatement.
(Note: These fees are subject to change. It is always a good idea to check the official DMV website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.)
Driver’s License (DL) Fees (The Most Common)
This section covers standard, non-commercial (Class C) licenses.
How much is a new driver’s license or a renewal?
The fee for a new Class C driver’s license or a renewal is $41.
This $41 application fee is good for 12 months and pays for:
- Your learner’s permit.
- Three (3) attempts at the written (knowledge) test.
- One (1) attempt at the behind-the-wheel driving (road) test.
Is a REAL ID more expensive than a standard license?
No. The fee for a first-time REAL ID or a REAL ID renewal is $41, the same as a standard Class C license.
What if I fail my driving (road) test?
You must pay a $8 retest fee for each additional behind-the-wheel test after the first one.
How much is a replacement driver’s license?
The fee for a replacement (duplicate) Class C license (if yours is lost, stolen, or damaged) is $33. This is also the fee if you need to update your information, like getting a new card after an address change on your CA license.
California ID Card Fees
| ID Card Type | Who It’s For | Fee |
| Regular ID Card | Any eligible person | $35 |
| Senior Citizen ID | Persons age 62 or older | No Fee |
| Reduced-Fee ID Card | Persons on public assistance programs (SSI, CalWorks, etc.) | $10 |
License Reinstatement Fees (After a Suspension)
This is one of the most confusing fee structures. The reinstatement fee you pay depends entirely on the reason for your suspension. You must pay this fee after your suspension period is over.
- DUI (Standard First Offense): $55 (DUI Reissue Fee)
- DUI (Admin Per Se, 21+): $125 (Reissue Fee)
- DUI (Admin Per Se, Under 21): $100 (Reissue Fee)
- Financial Responsibility (No Insurance): $55 (FR Reissue Fee)
- Driving Record Points: If your license was suspended due to accumulating too many points (you can check your points on your CA license here), you will pay the specific reissue fee listed on your suspension notice.
To reinstate your license, you must first clear all your compliance items. You can learn the full process in our guide to reinstating a suspended CA license.
Other Common DMV Fees
| Service | Fee |
| Driving (behind-the-wheel) retest | $8 |
| Copy of a Driver Record | $5 |
| Dishonored Check (Bounced Check) | $30 |
FAQs
No. The $41 application fee gives you three (3) attempts at the written test within 12 months. If you fail all three, your application is voided, and you must start over and pay a new $41 fee.
You only pay the $8 retest fee for your second and third attempts. If you fail the road test three times, your application is voided, and you must start over with a new $41 application.
Yes. If you are 62 or older, you can get a new or renewal ID card for no fee. Note: This does not apply to a driver’s license, which still has the $41 renewal fee.
You must schedule your visit online. You can learn the full step-by-step process in our guide to making a CA DMV appointment.
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