The Daly City DMV office is in San Mateo County and handles most driver license and vehicle registration services for that area

The Daly City DMV is located at 333 90th Street, Daly City, CA 94015. This office serves residents of Daly City and surrounding communities in San Mateo County. You can visit in person for services like getting your first driver license, renewing an expired license, taking your behind-the-wheel driving test, or handling vehicle registration and title work.

To visit this office, you need to book an appointment ahead of time. California's DMV does not accept walk-ins at most locations, including Daly City. Booking online through the official DMV website is the fastest way to find a time slot.

Key Takeaways

  • Book your Daly City DMV appointment through the official California DMV website at dmv.ca.gov, not through third-party sites.
  • You must have an appointment; the Daly City office does not accept walk-in customers.
  • Appointment availability changes daily, and popular times fill up quickly, so check early in the morning when new slots open.
  • Bring all required documents for your specific service (license renewal, first license, test, registration) or your appointment may be cancelled.

How to book your appointment online

Go to dmv.ca.gov and click the "Book an Appointment" button on the homepage. You will be asked to enter your zip code or city name. Type "Daly City" or your San Mateo County zip code to find the Daly City office.

Next, select the service you need. Common options include "Driver License" (for first-time licenses or renewals), "Driving Test" (for your behind-the-wheel exam), "Vehicle Registration," or "Title Services." The system will show you available dates and times for that specific service at the Daly City location.

Choose a date and time that works for you, then enter your contact information. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment number, date, time, and a list of documents to bring. Save this confirmation—you will need to show it when you arrive.

What to bring to your appointment

The documents you need depend on your service type. For a first-time driver license, bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of California residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.

For a license renewal, you may only need your current license and payment. For a behind-the-wheel driving test, bring your permit, proof of identity, proof of residency, and a vehicle that is registered and insured. For vehicle registration or title work, bring your vehicle's current registration, proof of ownership, and proof of residency.

The DMV website shows a full checklist for your specific service when you book. Review it before your appointment so you do not arrive unprepared—missing documents can result in your appointment being cancelled.

When appointments are typically available

Appointment slots at the Daly City office open on a rolling basis. New slots are usually released early in the morning, often between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. Pacific time. If you see no availability when you first search, try again the next morning or later in the week, as popular times (lunch hours and late afternoon) fill up fastest.

Wait times for appointments vary by service. Behind-the-wheel driving tests often have longer waits than license renewals. If you cannot find an appointment in Daly City within your timeframe, you can search nearby DMV offices in San Mateo County or other counties, though you may need to travel further.

What to expect on the day of your appointment

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring your confirmation email and all required documents. Check in at the front desk and wait for your number to be called. Processing times vary—a straightforward renewal may take 15 minutes, while a driving test or new license process can take 30 minutes to an hour.

If you are taking a driving test, the examiner will inspect your vehicle, review your permit and documents, and then take you on a short route through Daly City streets. If you are explore for a new license, you will have your photo taken and answer questions about your process. If you are handling registration or title work, staff will process your paperwork and collect payment.

If you need to cancel or reschedule

You can cancel or reschedule your appointment through the DMV website using your confirmation number. Go to dmv.ca.gov, click "Manage Your Appointment," and enter your confirmation details. You can change your date and time or cancel entirely. If you cancel, that slot becomes available for other people to book.

If you miss your appointment without cancelling, you may have to wait longer for the next available slot. If you are running late, call the Daly City office directly at the phone number on your confirmation email to let them know.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book an appointment by phone instead of online?

The DMV prefers online booking through dmv.ca.gov. However, if you cannot book online, you can call the Daly City office directly. The phone number is listed on your confirmation email or on the DMV website's office locator. Phone lines are often busy, so online booking is usually faster.

What if there are no appointments available in Daly City?

Check back the next morning when new slots open, or search for appointments at other San Mateo County DMV offices like San Mateo or Redwood City. You can also expand your search to nearby counties if you are willing to travel. Some services, like written tests, may have more availability than others.

Do I need an appointment for a written test only?

Yes. All services at the Daly City DMV require an appointment, including written tests for your learner's permit. Book online and select "Permit Test" or "Written Test" as your service type.

What if I fail my driving test?

You can reschedule another test through the DMV website or by calling the office. There is usually a waiting period before you can retake the test, and you will need to pay the test fee again. The DMV will tell you the earliest date you can book your next attempt.

Can someone else pick up my documents or license for me?

No. You must be present at your appointment. The DMV requires your signature and photo for most services. If you cannot attend, cancel your appointment and reschedule for a time you can make it.