California Dmv Current Wait Times (2024)

FAQs

Which California DMV is least busy? ›

The shortest waits can be found in Alturas, near the Modoc National Forest in Northern California. With or without an appointment, most people waited only two minutes to be served.

The DMV became the center of controversy last year when customers complained of having to wait four to six hours at field offices as the agency deals with complications caused by Real IDs, a new driver's license and identification card design required for airline passengers starting in late 2020.

DL Requirements

Be at least 16 years old. Have held your instruction permit (in California or another state) for at least 6 months. Provide proof of completion of driver education and driver training.

If you just don't have the time or patience, you can nix the appointment and opt to walk in during a slow period. If you want to get in and out of the DMV in the shortest time possible, go: Bright and early when the DMV opens. Before the lunch hour, before noon.

Most licenses expire by the end of the month, which means many people will be pouring into the DMV during the early and late parts of the month. Mid-month should be the ideal time to schedule your visit. You can also expect your visit to be less stressful on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays.

If possible, it's best to go to the DMV in California during the week rather than over the weekend. The reason for this is that most people try to go on the weekend when they are off work, making it very crowded and busy. If possible, try to schedule your appointment for the middle of the month.

You make a sudden stop on a freeway-merge lane. You don't check your blind spot when changing lanes. You drive 10 mph over or under the speed limit. You drive in the wrong lane or in the bike lane.

If you are 70 years old or older at the time your driver's license expires, you are required to renew your driver's license in person, unless otherwise instructed by DMV. Knowledge and vision tests are required. If you do not pass, you may be issued a temporary driver's license.

You can walk into any California DMV, get a number, and quite likely get your business done within somewhere between 30 minutes and five hours.

How does the CA DMV get in line work? ›

According to DMV officials, Saturday appointments can be made 90 days in advance online or by calling 1-800-777-0133.

You can walk into any California DMV, get a number, and quite likely get your business done within somewhere between 30 minutes and five hours.

The fastest you can get a California driver's license is seven months. If everything runs smoothly, you can complete driver's ed in a month and then hold a learner's permit for six months, which is the minimum required by California law.

The California Department of Motor Vehicles is aiming to significantly reduce the wait times for people who do not have an appointment. According to newly released data from the DMV, they have been able to cut down on the statewide average wait time for those without an appointment from 73 minutes to 38 minutes.