SAN DIEGO — The Department of Motor Vehicles hit the brakes on a requirement that forced drivers 70 year of age and older to pass a written knowledge test to renew their license.
Starting October 1, those drivers only need to come into the office for a vision test and photo.
DMV spokeswoman Anita Gore told CBS 8 that this move is expected to reduce the amount of foot traffic at DMV offices by about 50,000 people a month and should have no effect on driver safety.
“Someone who's been driving for 15 years, or 30 years, who's never gotten a ticket, never been in an accident, there's no reason for us to believe that they don't know the rules of the road,” Gore said.
This move should reduce the amount of time most people spend in a DMV office.
“You no longer have to take a day off work or plan around a trip to the DMV,” she said. “You can make an appointment and be in and out really quickly.”
Paula Liska spent two days cramming for the DMV's written test, then got to the Clairemont office where she learned she didn't have to take it.
“Hallelujah!,” she said with a laugh. At 96 years young, Paula thinks she would have passed, but better safe than sorry.
“Some of the questions are what we called in college Mickey Mouse. They switch words just a little," she said.
Paula directly referenced this question: What should you do when there's a school bus ahead that starts flashing yellow warning lights?
The choices are: Slow down and prepare to stop, stop immediately and remain stopped, or cautiously pass the school bus on the left. The correct answer is to slow down and prepare to stop.
Antonio Martinez Sr., 79, gives the move two thumbs up.
“Great,” he said. “I tried a couple times and I just missed it by two or three stupid questions and argh! I know them. I haven't had any driving tickets in 30 years, something like that.”
Those 70 and over will still have to take a written test to renew their license if, within two years of your license expiring, you've had two or more accidents, A DUI suspension, or a violation point count greater than one.
Also, written tests will be required for anyone getting a license for the first time in California, even if you have a valid license from another state.