How To Make An DMV Appointment California (CA)

The California DMV is famous for its long lines. A simple walk-in visit can turn into an all-day event. The “secret” to beating the system is to never walk in for a service you can book online.

While most DMV field offices do accept walk-ins, you will be given the lowest priority. An appointment is your #1 toolto get in and out in under an hour.

This guide will show you how to skip the trip entirely with online services, how to book the correct appointment for your needs, and the “pro-tips” for what to do when the system is full.

First: Can You “Skip the Trip” Entirely?

The best appointment is no appointment. Before you start, check if you can complete your task 100% online. You DO NOT need an appointment for:

• Renewing Your Driver’s License (if eligible)
• Renewing Your Vehicle Registration
• Changing Your Address
• Replacing a Lost/Stolen License or ID
• Paying a Reinstatement Fee

If your task is on this list, you can complete it on the official DMV Online Services Portal.

How to Schedule Your In-Person DMV Appointment

If you must go in (for a REAL ID, permit test, or drive test), here is the step-by-step process.

1. Go to the Official Portal: Navigate to the California DMV Appointments Page.
2. Choose Your Appointment Type: This is the most important step. You must choose one of two paths:
   • “Office Visit Appointment”: This is for all in-person services done inside the building (Permits, REAL ID, Renewals, etc.).
   • “Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test”: This is only for your driving test.
3. Log In or Continue as Guest: You will need to enter your name and phone number.
4. Select Location & Time: Choose your preferred DMV field office and select an available date and time from the calendar.
5. Confirm & Save: You will receive a confirmation email and/or text. You must bring this confirmation with you to your appointment.

What to Book: A “Cheat Sheet” for DMV Services

The appointment system can be confusing. Here is exactly what to book.

If you need a… Learner's Permit (Written Test)

• Service to Select: Book an “Office Visit Appointment.”
• What to Know: The “Permit Test” and “Written Test” are the same thing. You will take the knowledge test on a touch-screen terminal (TST) during your “Office Visit” appointment.

If you need a… REAL ID (First-Time)

• Service to Select: Book an “Office Visit Appointment.”
• CRITICAL: You MUST have an appointment for a new REAL ID. Do not walk in.
• Pro-Tip: Start your REAL ID application online before your appointment. This will give you a “confirmation code” to bring, which speeds up your visit.

If you need to… Take Your Driving Test

• Service to Select: Book a “Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test Appointment.”
• What to Know: This is a separate system from the “Office Visit.” You must have a valid learner’s permit to book this. Appointments fill up weeks or months in advance, so book it early.

Required Documents for Your Visit (The REAL ID Checklist)

For any first-time driver’s license, permit, or REAL ID, you must bring the following original documents.

1. Proof of Identity (One required):
   • U.S. Passport or U.S. Birth Certificate
   • Permanent Resident Card
2. Proof of Social Security Number (One required):
   • Social Security Card
   • W-2 or 1099 form (must show full SSN)
3. Proofs of California Residency (TWO required):
   • You must bring TWO recent (within 60 days) documents from different sources with your name and CA address.
   • Examples: Utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or vehicle registration.

FAQs from California Drivers