Cal-Driver-Ed.Com

Nonresidents who possess a valid diplomatic driver license issued by the Diplomatic Vehicle Office of the Office of Foreign Missions of the U.S. Department of State are exempt from California’s driver licensing requirement.

DRIVING SCHOOLS

The driver training you receive establishes your driving habits for the rest of your life. When learning to drive, you should seek qualified instruction either in public or private high schools or in state licensed professional driving schools.

Professional schools and instructors in California are licensed by the DMV after meeting rigid qualifying standards. Schools must carry liability insurance, be bonded, and maintain complete records for DMV inspection. Vehicles are subject to annual inspection. Instructors must pass a qualifying examination, both written and driving, every three years, or show proof of continuing education in the traffic safety field. If you use the services of a professional driving school, ask to see the instructor’s identification card.

MATURE DRIVER PROGRAM

The Mature Driver Program is an eight-hour course available from some insurance companies for drivers aged 55 and older. The course covers a variety of topics of special interest to the mature driver. Health and driving performance, the effects of medications on driving, and compensating for vision and hearing impairments are a few of the subject areas covered in the class.

The insurance company may offer discounts for those who complete the class and receive a completion certificate.

RENEWAL BY MAIL

Many drivers may renew their licenses by mail without taking a law test. They can do this if:

• Their current license expires before age 70.
• They do not have a probationary license (VC §14250).
• They did not violate a written promise to appear in court within the last two years.
• They are not suspended for driving with an illegal BAC level, or for refusing, or for failing to complete, a chemical or preliminary alcohol screening test within the last two years.
• They do not have a total violation point count greater than one.
• They have not already received two consecutive four- or five-year extensions.

AVAILABILITY OF PUBLIC INFORMATION AND CONFIDENTIALITY OF RECORDS

Your Record Is Public

Most information in your driver license file is available to the public. Your residence address may only be viewed by law enforcement agencies, courts, other govern-mental agencies, and certain commercial requesters. Police, insurance companies, and others examine hundreds of thousands of driver records each year. Your mailing address, if different from your residence, is less restricted and may be given to requesters who provide a valid reason for wanting the information. If you receive mail at your residence, then giving DMV your mailing address is optional. Records on the physical or mental condition of a driver, and Social Security Numbers however, remain confidential.

You may obtain a copy of your driving record at any DMV office for a small fee. You will be required to show valid identification before the information is released.

previous | table of contents | next