Inevitability, the time comes for your driver’s license renewal. If it’s your turn, you might want to get some information on the process. Even seniors have the chance to renew by mail or online if certain criteria are met.
Driver’s License Renewal
Excluding commercial licenses and some other restrictions, you can generally renew under these rules:
- Your license must be within 60 days of expiring
- You must be 70 years of age or under when your current license expires
- You must not be on any driving probation or suspension
Field Trip to the DMV
Of course, if you aren’t eligible for mail-in or online renewal, a trip to the DMV is in your future. If the thought of it makes you tense, you can relax. There are some ways ensure your visit goes more smoothly. One of those ways is to make an appointment and bring your renewal notice. You’ll spend considerably less time waiting.
Requirements for Seniors
In addition to making an appointment, there are other aspects of the tests you will want to prepare for. Be sure you are ready for the vision test. If you’re having some issues, get them checked out now. If your eyesight needs correction, make sure you have a current prescription that gives you 20/40 vision.
Good advice for anyone going for their driver’s license renewal, regardless of age, is to study the California Driver’s Handbook. Laws are updated all the time, and you need be aware of current laws to pass the written knowledge exam.
Supplemental Driving Performance Evaluation
Seniors may be tested for cognitive ability by a driving test examiner in order to get their driver’s license renewal. This is to ensure you are implementing safe driving practices. Some may ask you to follow multiple directions, one after the other in a single sentence. They may talk to distract you, ask you to get on the freeway or have you perform more lane changes than usual.
Keeping Your Driving Privileges
Driving is often translated into freedom, so having to go in and take tests can feel like a threat to independence. It’s not a perfect system and sometimes people can’t get past the paperwork to be able to enjoy driving again.
That’s where Maison Law comes in. You don’t have to muddle through the red tape alone. We can help you better understand your rights as a senior driver. We have offices in Bakersfield, Fresno and Visalia. Visit us online at maisonlaw.com to see how we can help you.
