How old is too old to drive in California? See DMV’s updated rules for seniors
The California Department of Motor Vehicles has several rules for getting a driver’s license.
When it comes to older drivers, however, the state cares less about eligibility and more about safety.
According to the California Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, which maps statewide crash and injury data, reported that there were 444 fatal crashes involving older adults in 2024.
In the past 10 years, California has seen an average of 616 fatalities per year, data show.
How old is too old to drive in California?
Here’s what the California DMV and state law say:
How old is too old to drive in California?
Though California drivers once had to take a written test every five years after turning 70, updated DMV guidelines have eased that rule.
Now, most older drivers are no longer required to pass a written knowledge test to renew their licenses.
The California DMV has eliminated “the written knowledge test for those without traffic violations on their record to improve customer service,” DMV Director Steve Gordon said in a September news release.
If a test is required, choose the “eLearning” option when filling out your online application, the DMV website says.
Who’s required to take knowledge test to renew driver’s license?
First-time drivers and those with poor driving records still need to take a written knowledge test when renewing their California driver’s licenses.
So do people who were convicted of driving under the influence of intoxicants.
According to the DMV, you’ll be required to take the test if any of the following apply to you:
- Two or more accidents within the two years before your license expires.
- Three or more accidents within the three years before expiration.
- A DUI-related suspension within the past two years.
- More than one violation point within the two years before renewal.
Do elderly drivers have to go to DMV office to renew license?
California drivers who are 70 or older must renew their licenses in person, rather than online.
This process includes taking a vision test and updating their license photo.
To save time during an office visit, the DMV recommends starting a renewal application online.
Which physical or mental conditions can result in license suspension?
Under California Vehicle Code 12806, the DMV can suspend your license if you have:
- A disorder that causes “lapses of consciousness.”
- A disorder that has led to a lapse of consciousness or “episode of marked confusion” in the past three years and could recur.
- Any other physical or mental condition that could impair your ability to drive safely.
According to Shouse California Law Group, certain medical conditions that commonly affect senior drivers can lead to the suspension of a driver’s license, including:
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Dementia
- Cataracts
- Macular degeneration
- Diabetes
The DMV can also suspend your license if you take medications that can result in dizziness, sleepiness and blurred vision, the law firm said, due to concerns over physical or mental fitness.
This story was originally published May 18, 2025 at 9:00 AM with the headline "How old is too old to drive in California? See DMV’s updated rules for seniors."
