Older Adults Should Know When to Visit DMV for License Renewal
As California prepares for notable changes in its vehicle regulations, questions about driving tests for older adults have emerged, particularly pertaining to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Carole Ottosen of Riverside sought clarification about whether older adults renewing their driver’s licenses will be required to take an in-person driving test after January 1.
In response, DMV spokesperson Ronald Ongtoaboc confirmed that the agency does not mandate an on-the-road driving test for license renewal applicants based solely on age. This policy is governed by section 12814 (a) of the California Vehicle Code, which states that age alone cannot be used as evidence to necessitate examination of a driver’s abilities. However, the DMV does retain the authority to restrict driving privileges if a driver of any age is found to be unsafe to operate a vehicle. Concerns regarding an individual’s driving safety can be reported by law enforcement agencies or members of the public, prompting a reevaluation of the driver’s abilities. Additional information can be found on the DMV’s website under the “Potentially Unsafe Driver” page.
For California residents aged 70 and older, the regulations stipulate that they must renew their licenses in person at a DMV office every five years. This process entails the payment of an application fee, passing a vision test, having a new photograph taken, and providing a thumbprint. Notably, individuals with poor driving records are subject to additional testing requirements, with renewal notices indicating whether a knowledge test is necessary.
As part of ongoing efforts to protect car buyers, new legislation will come into effect on October 1, 2026, establishing greater transparency and stronger protections for California consumers. Named the California Combating Auto Retail Scams Act, the law imposes stricter requirements on car dealerships regarding advertising, sales practices, and marketing of add-on products. Dealers will be prohibited from misleading customers regarding sales, leases, or financing, and must clearly display the total cost of vehicles in their advertisements. Furthermore, businesses are mandated to retain records of advertising, contracts, and add-ons for a minimum of two years, enhancing oversight of potential misconduct.
In a noteworthy consumer benefit, individuals purchasing used cars will have a three-day window to return vehicles priced under ,000, provided the odometer reads fewer than 400 miles and the car is undamaged. While dealers may charge a restocking fee of 1.5% of the sale price, capped at 0, this approach offers consumers a more manageable solution compared to enduring payments on a vehicle that does not meet their expectations.
The evolving landscape of California’s vehicle regulations underscores a commitment to enhancing safety for older drivers while simultaneously safeguarding the interests of consumers in the automotive marketplace.
