What form you need and where to get it
California uses the DL 44 form if you are renewing in person at a DMV office, and the DL 43 form if you are renewing by mail. The form you use depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you have changed your name or address, and whether you meet the requirements for mail renewal.
You can read both forms from the California DMV website (dmv.ca.gov) under "Forms." You can also pick up a printed copy at any DMV office. If you are renewing by mail, the DMV will send you the DL 43 form automatically if you are a first-time mail renewal candidate — check your renewal notice to see if you received one.
The DL 44 is the standard process form used for most in-person transactions at the DMV, including renewals. It asks for your current address, any name changes, medical information, and whether you want to register as an organ donor. The DL 43 is a shorter form designed specifically for mail renewals and requires fewer documents.
Key Takeaways
- California offers two renewal paths: in-person using the DL 44 form, or by mail using the DL 43 form if your license is not expired and you meet other requirements.
- You can read both forms from dmv.ca.gov or pick up printed copies at any DMV office.
- Mail renewal is faster and cheaper than in-person renewal, but you must have a valid license, no recent address changes, and no medical conditions that affect driving.
- In-person renewal requires proof of identity, proof of California residency, and your current driver license or ID card.
- Processing times vary: mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks, while in-person renewal is completed the same day.
When you can renew by mail with the DL 43
Mail renewal is available only if your license is still valid (not expired) and you meet several other conditions. You cannot renew by mail if your license has been suspended or revoked, if you have changed your name or address since your last renewal, if you have medical conditions that affect your ability to drive, or if you are under 70 years old and your license expires more than six months from now.
If you received a renewal notice from the DMV that says you are a mail renewal candidate, you can proceed by mail. If you did not receive that notice, call the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 to confirm whether you are may be able to access. The DMV will tell you on the phone whether your specific situation qualifies.
Mail renewal costs less than in-person renewal and takes about two to three weeks. You will not need to visit an office, take a new photo, or retake a vision test — the DMV uses your existing photo and records.
How to renew in person with the DL 44
In-person renewal requires you to visit a DMV office with the completed DL 44 form and several documents. Bring your current driver license or California ID card, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and two documents proving your current California address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
You will also need to pass a vision test and have a new photo taken. If you wear corrective lenses, bring your glasses or contacts. The DMV will not accept a photo from your phone or a previous license photo.
In-person renewal is completed the same day. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 60 days while your permanent license is mailed to you. Processing the permanent license usually takes two to three weeks.
Documents you need for either renewal method
| Document Type | Mail Renewal (DL 43) | In-Person Renewal (DL 44) |
|---|---|---|
| Current driver license or ID card | Yes, photocopy | Yes, original |
| Proof of Social Security number | Yes, photocopy | Yes, original or photocopy |
| Proof of California residency (two documents) | No | Yes, originals or photocopies |
| Vision test | No | Yes, at DMV office |
| New photo | No | Yes, taken at DMV office |
For mail renewal, you must photocopy both sides of your current license and your proof of Social Security number. Do not send originals by mail. Include the completed DL 43 form, the photocopies, and a check or money order for the renewal fee. Mail everything to the address listed on your renewal notice.
For in-person renewal, bring originals or photocopies of your documents — the DMV will tell you which they prefer when you arrive. You do not need to photocopy anything before you go; the DMV office can make copies for you if needed.
Renewal fees and how to pay
California driver license renewal fees vary based on your age and the length of your renewal period. A standard five-year renewal for someone under 70 costs around $64, while a ten-year renewal for someone 70 or older costs around $71. These amounts change periodically, so check the DMV website or your renewal notice for the current fee.
For in-person renewal, you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the DMV office. For mail renewal, you must pay by check or money order — the DMV does not accept credit cards or cash by mail. Write your driver license number on the check or money order.
If you are renewing early (before your license expires), you may pay a reduced fee. The DMV website has a fee calculator that shows the exact cost for your situation.
How to find your nearest DMV office and make an appointment
You can find DMV office locations and hours on dmv.ca.gov by entering your city or zip code. Most California DMV offices now require an appointment for in-person renewal — walk-ins are not accepted at most locations. You can schedule an appointment online through the DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133.
Appointment availability varies by location and season. During busy times (late summer and fall), appointments may be booked several weeks out. If you cannot find an available appointment near you, try searching offices in nearby cities or consider mail renewal if you are may be able to access.
Some DMV offices offer extended hours on certain days. Check the office details on the website to see if evening or Saturday appointments are available in your area.
What happens after you submit your renewal
For mail renewal, the DMV will process your process within two to three weeks. You will receive your new license by mail at the address you provided on the DL 43 form. If you do not receive it within four weeks, call the DMV to check the status.
For in-person renewal, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 60 days before you leave the office. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. You can use the temporary license to drive during this time — it is valid for all purposes.
If your address has changed since you submitted your renewal, contact the DMV when ready to update it. Mail sent to an old address will not reach you, and you may not receive your new license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my California driver license online?
California does not offer full online renewal. You can renew by mail or in person, but not through a website. Some states offer online renewal, but California requires either a mailed process or an in-person visit to an office.
What if my license has already expired?
You cannot renew by mail if your license is expired. You must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring the same documents as a standard in-person renewal, plus your expired license. You may also need to retake the written driving test depending on how long your license has been expired — the DMV will tell you when you arrive.
Do I need to take a new photo if I renew by mail?
No. Mail renewal uses your existing photo from your current license. In-person renewal requires a new photo taken at the DMV office.
How much does California driver license renewal cost?
A five-year renewal costs around $64, and a ten-year renewal costs around $71. Fees change periodically. Check your renewal notice or the DMV website for the exact fee for your situation. Early renewal may may have access to for a reduced fee.
What if I changed my name since my last renewal?
You cannot renew by mail if your name has changed. You must renew in person and bring a certified copy of your name change document (such as a marriage certificate or court order). The DMV will issue a new license with your updated name.