DMV Appointments
How to make a California DMV appointment
Booking an appointment is the single best way to avoid the DMV wait — appointment holders are usually seen in 15-30 minutes versus 1-2 hours for walk-ins. Pick what you're going in for below, and we'll show you exactly what you need before you book.
Before you book: Many DMV tasks don't require a visit at all. Check below — if your task can be done online, you'll save yourself the trip entirely.
1. What are you going in for?
Your appointment checklist
What to bring
When you're ready, book your free appointment through the official DMV portal:
Book on the official DMV portalOpens dmv.ca.gov in a new tab. Appointments are always free.
How DMV appointments work
California DMV appointments are booked online through the official portal. You select an office, choose the type of service, and pick from available date and time slots. You'll get a confirmation — bring it (on your phone is fine) when you arrive, and check in at the appointment kiosk or with the greeter.
Appointments open up to about 90 days out. Popular offices in big cities can book several weeks ahead, so reserve early. If your preferred office has no near-term slots, check a nearby office — availability varies a lot between locations even a few miles apart.
Can't find a slot and need to go sooner? Walk-ins are accepted at every office, but expect a longer wait. Find your office's typical wait times to pick the quietest day and hour.