- Exception: An applicant who is required to have and maintain a current Medical Examination Report (MER) (MCSA-5875) and Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) (MCSA-5876) is excluded from this requirement.
Once you have completed these forms and collected all documents, schedule an appointment at a local DMV inspector office to submit your paperwork and fees, and complete a written examination. You have three attempts to pass the written examination.
You must complete your application within one year or a new application with all examinations and fees will be required.
Fees
- $30 nonrefundable application fee
- $1 family support program
- $30 additional license fee
- $30 reinstatement license fee (if applicable)
- $15 duplicate or replacement license fee (if applicable)
- $15 transfer of license fee (if applicable)
Driving School Instructor Examination
As part of your application, you will take a written exam that covers:
- Traffic laws.
- Safe driving practices.
- Operation of motor vehicles.
- Knowledge of teaching methods and techniques.
- First aid.
- Regulations pertaining to the teaching of automobile driver education and driver training (DE/DT) to minors under 18.
The test is required every three years.
Application Checklist
Take a look at the Driving School Instructor Original Application Checklist (OL 219) to make sure you completed all the steps.
How to Renew a Driving School Instructor License
To renew your license, submit the following:
- Application for Driver Instructor and All-Terrain Vehicle Safety Instructor License (OL 16I).
- Driving School Instructor Occupational Licensing Application (OL 203).
- Physician’s Health Report (DL 546A). An original DL 546A form must be submitted. Copies will not be accepted.
- Exception: An applicant who is required to have and maintain a current Medical Examination Report (MER) (MCSA-5875) and Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC) (MCSA-5876) is excluded from this requirement.
Once you have completed these forms and collected all documents, schedule an appointment at a local DMV inspector office to submit your paperwork and fees, and complete a written examination if required. You have three attempts to pass the written examination.
Fees
- $30 renewal application fee
- $1 family support program
How to Modify a Driving School Instructor License
To modify an existing license, complete and submit the appropriate form listed on the Driving School & All-Terrain School License Modifications.
Mail your completed form and fees to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Occupational Licensing Section
PO Box 932342 MS L224
Sacramento, CA 94232-3420Driving School Instructor Licensing Authority
California Vehicle Code (CVC) §§310.4, 1651, and 11100 to 11114. The CVC is available for purchase from the DMV.
California Code of Regulations, Title 13, Chapter 1.
California Government Code §6157 (a) – (d).
Need something else?
Driving School Instructor Lesson Plan
Find the core course topics and requirements for a California DMV approved driving school instructor training program.
Driving School Program Handbook
The Driving School Program Handbook contains helpful information about applying for a license, requirements, fees, and more.
Driving Schools
Learn more about driving schools, driving school licenses, and requirements.
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