Book your California DMV appointment online at dmv.ca.gov or by phone at 1-800-777-0133

California's Department of Motor Vehicles requires you to schedule an appointment before visiting most field offices. You cannot walk in without one — the DMV stopped accepting walk-ins at most locations and now operates by appointment only. The online system at dmv.ca.gov is the fastest route and shows you available times the same day you search.

You will need to know what you are coming in for — registration renewal, license replacement, title transfer, or another specific transaction — because the DMV sorts appointments by service type. The system will ask you to enter your driver's license number or ID number, then show you the nearest offices with open slots. Most appointments are available within one to three weeks, though some busy locations in large cities may have longer waits.

Key Takeaways

  • The DMV website at dmv.ca.gov lets you book an appointment and see available times when ready, without calling or visiting an office.
  • You must select the specific service you need — registration renewal, license replacement, or another transaction — before the system shows available appointments.
  • If the online system is down or you cannot use it, call 1-800-777-0133 to book by phone, though wait times are typically longer.
  • Bring all required documents for your transaction type; the DMV will not process your request if paperwork is missing, and you will lose your appointment slot.

Steps to book online at dmv.ca.gov

Go to dmv.ca.gov and select "Book an Appointment" from the homepage. The system will ask you to choose your transaction type from a list — for registration renewal, select that option; for a new title, select title services; and so on. You will then enter your driver's license number or California ID number to verify your identity.

The system will show you available DMV field offices near your zip code, sorted by distance. Click on an office to see open appointment times. Most offices show slots for the next two to four weeks. Select a date and time that works for you, then confirm your appointment. You will receive a confirmation number by email or text message — save this number because you will need it when you arrive at the office.

The entire process usually takes five to ten minutes. If no times are available at your preferred location, try searching for offices in nearby cities or check back in a few days, as new slots open regularly as other appointments are cancelled.

What to do if you cannot book online

If the dmv.ca.gov website is unavailable or you do not have internet access, call 1-800-777-0133 to book by phone. A representative will ask you the same questions the online system does — your service type, location preference, and identity information — and will book an appointment for you. Phone lines are typically busiest in the morning and early afternoon, so calling early morning or late afternoon may mean shorter wait times.

Some DMV field offices also have phone numbers listed on their individual office pages at dmv.ca.gov. You can call the specific office directly, though the main 1-800 number is usually faster. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, use the California Relay Service by dialing 711, then ask to be connected to the DMV appointment line.

Documents to bring to your appointment

The documents you need depend on your transaction type. For registration renewal, bring your current registration card, proof of insurance, and your vehicle's current smog certification if your vehicle requires one. For a title transfer, bring the signed title from the seller, a bill of sale, and proof of insurance. For a license replacement, bring your current license or ID and proof of residency.

The DMV website lists the full document requirements for each service type under "What to Bring" on the transaction page. Check this list before your appointment — if you arrive without required documents, the DMV will not process your request and you will lose your appointment slot. You will then have to book another appointment and return later.

What happens on the day of your appointment

Arrive at the DMV office 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Bring your confirmation number and all required documents. Check in at the front desk or at a kiosk — staff will verify your appointment and direct you to the correct service window. Most appointments take 15 to 30 minutes once you reach the service counter, though wait times vary depending on how busy the office is that day.

If you are running late, call the office directly as soon as you know you will miss your time. Some offices allow you to reschedule on the phone; others require you to cancel and book a new appointment online. If you do not show up and do not cancel, you may have to wait longer for your next available appointment.

Rescheduling or cancelling an appointment

To reschedule or cancel, go back to dmv.ca.gov, select "Manage Your Appointment," and enter your confirmation number. You can then change your date and time or cancel entirely. If you cancel, your slot opens up for other people to book, and you can schedule a new appointment whenever you are ready.

If you cannot access the website, call 1-800-777-0133 and provide your confirmation number. A representative can reschedule or cancel for you over the phone. Cancelling in advance is important because it frees up the slot for others and prevents you from being marked as a no-show.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I walk into a DMV office without an appointment?

No. California DMV offices operate by appointment only at most locations. You must book a time slot before you arrive. The only exceptions are certain limited services at some offices, which the DMV lists on its website — check your local office's page to confirm.

How far in advance can I book an appointment?

You can typically book up to 60 days in advance through the online system. If you need an appointment sooner, check the website or call — new slots often open as cancellations happen, sometimes just days before the appointment date.

What if I miss my appointment?

If you do not show up and do not cancel, you lose that slot. You will need to book a new appointment, which may take longer depending on how busy your local office is. Cancelling in advance is always better than missing your time.

Can someone else go to my appointment for me?

No. The person named on the appointment must be present. The DMV verifies your identity at check-in, so you cannot send someone else in your place. If you cannot make it, cancel and reschedule for a time that works for you.

Why does the system ask what service I need before showing appointments?

The DMV schedules appointments by service type because different transactions take different amounts of time and require different staff. Selecting the correct service ensures you get the right amount of time and are routed to the correct service window when you arrive.