Scheduling Appointments at California DMV Offices

Navigating the California DMV can be significantly easier with a scheduled appointment. Whether you're applying for a new license, registering a vehicle, or upgrading to a REAL ID, the California Department of Motor Vehicles offers convenient appointment options online and by phone.

Services Requiring an Appointment

While many DMV services are available online, several require an in-person visit and benefit from booking an appointment in advance. These services include:

Applying for a new driver’s license or identification card
Taking a behind-the-wheel driving test
Registering a vehicle for the first time
Applying for a REAL ID
Correcting documents or name changes

For a comprehensive breakdown of license application steps, visit Steps to Obtain a California Driver's License.

How to Schedule an Appointment

Online

The fastest and most efficient way to schedule an appointment is through the official California DMV appointment system. Users can book appointments for:

Office visits
Driving tests
Vehicle registration tasks

To schedule online, you’ll need to provide basic personal information and the type of service you need.

By Phone

Appointments can also be made by calling 1-800-777-0133 during regular business hours. This method is recommended for individuals who may have trouble navigating the online system or who require accommodations.

Appointment Tips

Arrive early: DMV offices often have security checks and lines even for appointment holders.
Bring all required documents: Missing paperwork is a common reason for delays. If you're upgrading to a REAL ID, refer to California REAL ID: What You Need to Know.
Confirm your appointment: Check your email or the DMV portal to ensure your booking is confirmed.
Use the DMV Now kiosks: For simple tasks like registration renewals, you can often skip the line using a DMV Now self-service terminal.

Walk-Ins vs Appointments

While some DMV locations accept walk-ins, these are often limited and involve long wait times. Scheduling ahead is strongly encouraged, especially in high-traffic areas like Los Angeles, San Diego, and the Bay Area.

DMV Locations with High Demand

Certain locations have significantly higher wait times. These include urban offices in:

Los Angeles
San Francisco
San Jose
Sacramento

To avoid long waits, consider scheduling at nearby suburban offices when possible.

Understanding the process ahead of time ensures you’re prepared. For more helpful guidance, check out:

For the most accurate and up-to-date appointment options, always refer to the official California DMV site.

Services Requiring an Appointment

While many DMV services are available online, several require an in-person visit and benefit from booking an appointment in advance. These services include:

Applying for a new driver’s license or identification card

Taking a behind-the-wheel driving test

Registering a vehicle for the first time

Applying for a REAL ID

Correcting documents or name changes

How to Schedule an Appointment

Online

The fastest and most efficient way to schedule an appointment is through the official California DMV appointment system. Users can book appointments for:

Office visits

Driving tests

Vehicle registration tasks

To schedule online, you’ll need to provide basic personal information and the type of service you need.

By Phone

Appointment Tips

Arrive early: DMV offices often have security checks and lines even for appointment holders.

Bring all required documents: Missing paperwork is a common reason for delays. If you're upgrading to a REAL ID, refer to California REAL ID: What You Need to Know.

Confirm your appointment: Check your email or the DMV portal to ensure your booking is confirmed.

Use the DMV Now kiosks: For simple tasks like registration renewals, you can often skip the line using a DMV Now self-service terminal.

DMV Locations with High Demand

Certain locations have significantly higher wait times. These include urban offices in:

Los Angeles

San Francisco

San Jose

Sacramento

To avoid long waits, consider scheduling at nearby suburban offices when possible.

Understanding the process ahead of time ensures you’re prepared. For more helpful guidance, check out:

For the most accurate and up-to-date appointment options, always refer to the official California DMV site.