What happens if your drivers license expires in California?

If your California driver's license expires, you are no longer legally permitted to drive in the state. If you are caught driving with an expired license, you could face penalties such as fines, impoundment of your vehicle, and suspension or revocation of your license.

To avoid these penalties, make sure to renew your license before it expires. You can renew your license online, by mail, or in person at a California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.

To renew online or by mail, you must:

Have a valid California driver's license

Pass a vision exam

Have paid all of your California vehicle fees

Have completed a driving test (if you are over the age of 70)

Bring your current driver's license

If you are unable to renew your license online or by mail, you may need to visit a DMV office. Bring the following documents:

Your expired driver's license

A passport-sized photo of yourself

Proof of identification

Proof of residence in California

Vehicle registration (if you own a vehicle)

Proof of auto insurance.