California DMV offers a wide range of online services through its website, dmv.ca.gov, allowing residents to complete most DMV transactions without visiting a physical office. The DMV Virtual Office enables users to complete forms, upload documents, and have a customer service representative review their materials before finalizing the process. Services available online include renewing vehicle registration, renewing or upgrading a driver’s license or ID card to a REAL ID, changing an address, applying for a disabled person parking placard, and checking the status of various DMV records.
To access these services, users can create a MyDMV account, which provides faster, personalized online service and allows for paperless renewal notices via email. Vehicle registration renewal can be completed online as soon as the renewal notice is received, provided the user has internet access, a valid payment method, and knows the last five digits of the vehicle’s VIN or HIN. For REAL ID applications, users can complete the application online, upload required documents such as a passport or birth certificate, and bring the original documents to an in-person appointment.
Additional online tools include the ability to check vehicle registration status, driver’s license or ID card status, and occupational licensing information. The DMV also offers eLearning for driver’s education, which is a self-directed, interactive course that can be accessed via computer, tablet, or smartphone. For those who prefer in-person assistance, convenient self-service touchscreen kiosks are available at select DMV field offices and retail locations.