Driver’s License / ID Card Application

This online driver’s license and ID card application saves you time by letting you complete the application before visiting a DMV field office. When you arrive, DMV employees can quickly access your completed form and begin to process it.

You can use this form to apply for, renew, replace, correct, or update a driver’s license or identification card, or to apply for license endorsements.

Before you begin…

  1. Be prepared to create a DMV online account, if you have never done so previously. If you have, be prepared to log in to your DMV online account. (DMV uses two-factor authentication to prove your digital identity; it requires an email address and a way to receive a phone call or text message.) Drivers 70+ must renew their DL in person at the DMV every five years. Start your driver’s license renewal application to save time at the DMV office.
  2. Have your social security number handy, in addition to basic information such as name, address, and date of birth.
  3. The average time to complete this application is 9 minutes. For privacy and security purposes, the app times out after 15 minutes. If you cannot complete the application in one sitting, don’t worry; you may log in to your DMV account and finish it later. (Applications are stored up to one year, and are only processed when you visit a DMV field office.)
  4. After completing the application, you will need to visit a field office to finish the rest of the driver’s license/ID card application process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fill out a paper version of the application instead? plus minus

Yes, but because each form has a unique barcode on it, it cannot be downloaded and printed. A new paper version of the driver’s license application is available in field offices for customers who choose not to complete the electronic version. Although, DMV is moving towards a completely paperless process and will begin to phase out the paper application.

How do I sign the application? plus minus

You will sign the form once you visit a DMV field office and complete the process with a DMV employee.

Can I apply for an ID card for a minor using the online application? plus minus

Yes. A parent can use their own email when completing the electronic application for minors, if the minor does not have their own email account.

Is the online application only available in English? plus minus

No. The application is available in 10 languages: English, Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Tagalog, Thai, and Vietnamese.

Will DMV share any information on the online application? plus minus

Information on the electronic application is only used for a DMV transaction. Although, pursuant to state law, customers who are eligible to register to vote will have their voter registration information shared with the Secretary of State.

Will I be registered to vote when I fill out the online application? plus minus

No. Before the Secretary of State will register you to vote, you must submit the electronic application to DMV and also complete your transaction at a DMV field office. Once at the field office, a DMV employee will retrieve your driver’s license or identification card application and complete the transaction with you. DMV will then electronically transmit voter information to the Secretary of State to complete the voter registration. Those who indicate eligibility to vote and do not opt out, will be registered to vote.

Will I be a registered organ and tissue donor when I fill out the electronic application? plus minus

No. The organ and tissue donor registry will not be completed until an applicant visits a field office and submits the application with a DMV employee as part of your driver’s license or identification card application.

What is the confirmation number for? plus minus

You will receive a confirmation number in your email once you complete and submit the electronic application. A DMV field office employee can use your confirmation number to look up your application.

I’m under 18 years old. How do I get my parents to sign so I can get my license? plus minus

The online driver’s license application provides a section for parents to complete. Voter pre-registration is available for 16- and 17-year-old applicants. Once they turn 18, they will be registered to vote.

I don’t want to include my social security number on the application. Will the DMV still process my application? plus minus

DMV takes the privacy and security of our customer’s information seriously and has employed measures to ensure the electronic application is secure. If a customer has a Social Security number, the law requires them to provide it on their application.

I am an immigrant to the United States and live in California. Can I get a driver's license? plus minus

AB 60 driver’s licenses are for individuals who are unable to provide proof of legal presence in the United States, but who meet California DMV requirements and are able to provide proof of identity and California residency. Learn more.