How to Make an Appointment at Oakland DMV

If you are trying to visit the DMV in “The Town,” you need to know exactly where you are going.

Oakland has two major field offices. If you book an appointment at one and show up at the other, they will turn you away.

• Oakland Claremont: (North Oakland/Rockridge) – Generally busier, tighter parking.
• Oakland Coliseum: (East Oakland) – Larger, but historically subject to closures/repairs.

This guide explains how to use the new “Get In Line Now” virtual queue, how to skip the visit entirely using the Service Advisor, and why you should probably drive to Hayward or El Cerrito instead.

Oakland Claremont vs Coliseum DMV: Locations, Hours, and Closure Warnings

Before you book, confirm which location is open and convenient.

Office Name	Address	Best For
Oakland Claremont	5300 Claremont Ave, Oakland, CA 94618	Residents of North Oakland, Berkeley, Piedmont.
Oakland Coliseum	501 85th Ave, Oakland, CA 94621	Residents of East Oakland, San Leandro. (Check status: Frequent maintenance closures).

Pro-Tip: If Oakland appointments are booked 3 weeks out, check El Cerrito (6400 Manila Ave) or Hayward (150 Jackson St). They often have sooner availability.

California DMV Service Advisor: Skip Oakland Trips with Online Renewals First

California DMV has aggressively moved services online. Before you fight for a parking spot on Claremont Avenue, try this:

1. Go to the CA DMV Service Advisor.
2. Click “Start Service Advisor.”
3. Answer 3 questions about what you need.
   • Result: 80% of users will be told they can finish online, including License Renewals (even if you need a new photo in some cases) and Title Transfers.

Oakland DMV “Get In Line Now”: Virtual Queue at 9 AM (No Long Physical Waits)

This is the best-kept secret of the CA DMV. You don’t always need an appointment weeks in advance. You can “get in line” digitally on the day of your visit.

1. Time: The queue opens at 9:00 AM (Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri) and 10:00 AM (Wed).
2. Action: Visit the DMV Office Locator.
3. Select: Choose “Oakland Claremont” or “Oakland Coliseum.”
4. Click: “Get In Line Now.”
5. Result: You will receive a text message with your wait time. Go grab coffee; the system will text you when it’s time to head to the office.

Schedule Oakland CA DMV Appointment Online (Real ID, Road Tests, Service Centers)

If you need a Real ID, Road Test, or Original License, you must go in person.

Step-by-Step Booking:

1. Visit: dmv.ca.gov/appointments.
2. Select Service:
   • Real ID (Requires uploading documents before the visit to save time).
   • Behind-the-Wheel Drive Test (Booking is separate from counter service).
3. Choose Location: Type “Oakland” and select Claremont or Coliseum.
4. Confirm: Enter your phone number. You will receive a confirmation code. Screenshot this code. The security guard at the door will demand to see it.

Real ID Checklist (May 2025 Deadline)

If you are visiting to get a license, ensure you upgrade to the Real ID (Golden Bear/Star). After May 7, 2025, your old standard license will not be accepted at Oakland International Airport (OAK) or SFO.

Required Documents:

1. Identity: Passport or Birth Certificate.
2. SSN: Social Security Card or W-2.
3. Residency: Two printed proofs (PG&E bill, Lease, Bank Statement) showing your Oakland address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Don’t just drive to “the DMV.” Check Claremont vs. Coliseum status first. Try the Service Advisor to see if you can skip the trip. And if you must go, use the “Get In Line Now” tool at 9:00 AM to secure your spot without standing on the sidewalk.