How to Check Your Driver’s License Status in California: A Complete Guide
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As of 2024, the most recent Highway Statistics Series from the Federal Highway Administration shows that 91% of California's population possesses driver's licenses. With so many drivers on the roads, it's possible to have a few who are driving illegally, whether knowingly or unwittingly. A driver's license can become suspended or revoked in several ways, and it is up to the license holder to verify the status of their license. You can check your driver's license status in California for a small application fee at the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Types of Driver's Licenses in California
When visiting a DMV to check on your license status, bring a valid ID and know the kind of license you want to verify. In California, a citizen may possess a standard or commercial driver's license — and possibly both. Many citizens also carry an identification card — an official document — or can receive a driver's license with a Real ID seal.
A basic or standard driver's license in California allows the license holder to operate a standard motor vehicle or truck for personal use on California roadways. Vehicles can weigh 10,000 lbs or less, including a tow dolly. The official classification for a basic driver's license is Class C.
A commercial driver's license or CDL is necessary when hired to operate commercial vehicles to transport property or passengers. A typical commercial vehicle has a gross weight of 26,001 lbs or more. It often carries 10 passengers or more, tows other vehicles of 10,001 lbs or more, tows trailers of 6,000 lbs or more, or transports hazardous materials.
When You Should Check Your Driver's License Status
Regardless of your license type, it is sometimes necessary to check its status. Some reasons to check the status of a driver's license in California include:
- License suspension
- License expiration
- Renewals and updates
- Points
- Review of official records
A suspended license in California comes with a suspension period, typically between 6 months and 4 years. When the suspension lifts, check the status of your California driver's license.
Beyond the typical reasons to check your driver's license status in California, there are several other times it can be important. For example, you may want to review your status before renewing your car insurance or vehicle registration.
How To Check Your Driver's License Status Online: Step-by-Step
Learning how to check California driver's license status online is simple. The process involves seven steps.
Step 1: Access the California DMV Website
To check the status of your California driver's license and Real ID, you must first access the California DMV website: dmv.ca.gov. The website is a portal for several DMV services, including filing status checks for your license online. Other online services include filing renewals, requesting replacements, and requesting permits.
Step 2: Navigate to the License Status Section
From the DMV home screen, scroll down to the online services section and click "See all online services." To perform a California driver's license status check, scroll down to the "Lookup/Status Check" box on the "Online Services" page and select the "Driver's License/ID Card Status" tab.
Step 3: Gather Required Information
Once on the correct page, you can find a list of items you need to check your driver's license status in California. The main item is your driver's license or ID card number, but you may also need your Social Security card handy, as you might need the last four digits of your Social Security number.
Step 4: Enter Your Information
Log in or create a DMV account to check your driver's license status online. Follow the prompts and submit your request.
Step 5: Verify Your Identity (If Required)
Sometimes, the DMV may ask you to verify your identity. Verification usually involves sending a code to your phone or another device.
Step 6: Review Your License Status
Finally, the site directs you to a page with your license status and report. The report should note your driving privilege and whether it is suspended, revoked, or permitted.
Step 7: Take Action (If Needed)
If your report or status is not what you expect, you can request more information or file a complaint. A DMV representative should contact you to discuss or explain the issue.
Important Resources
To learn more, check out the California DMV website, specifically its online portal. Also, if you are looking for a traffic school to complete mandatory training or comply with court orders, check out the DMV-approved traffic school list.
Verified Your License Status? Now Get the Best Car Insurance Rates!
Once you check your driver's license status in California, it is time to ensure you and your vehicle are road ready. Explore the EverQuote analysis tool to compare various insurance companies and plans to find one that fits your needs.