California Driver Handbook
Designated Driver Program
The Designated Driver Program
is an anti-DUI effort that works. The program encourages
one individual to abstain from consuming alcoholic
beverages for an outing so that he or she can be
responsible for transporting the other members of
the group safely.
To participate as a designated driver, an individual:
- Should be at least 21 years of age and must possess a valid driver license.
- Must be part of a group of two or more persons and verbally identify himself or herself as the designated driver to the server.
- Must abstain from consuming alcoholic beverages for the duration of the outing.
- Must not be an otherwise impaired driver.
- Must understand that management reserves the right to refuse service to anyone at anytime.
Diplomatic Driver License
Nonresidents who possess a valid diplomatic driver license issued by the U.S. Department of State are exempt from California’s driver licensing requirement.
Driving Schools
When learning to drive, you should seek qualified instruction either in bona fide public or private high schools or in state licensed professional driving schools.
Professional schools and instructors in California are licensed by the DMV after meeting rigid qualifying standards. Schools must carry liability insurance, be bonded, and maintain complete records for DMV inspection. Vehicles are subject to annual inspection. Instructors must pass a qualifying written examination every three years, or show proof of continuing education in the traffic safety field. If you use the services of a professional driving school, ask to see the instructor’s identification card.
Free ID Cards For P&M Conditions
Drivers who are no longer able to drive safely because of a physical or mental (P&M) condition may exchange their valid driver license for an ID card for no fee, if certain guidelines are met. Call 1-800-777-0133 for additional information.
Identification (ID) Card
DMV issues ID cards to persons of any age. To obtain an original ID card, you must present a birth date/legal presence verification document (more info) and provide your social security number. The ID card is good until the sixth birthday after it is issued. The fee for an ID may be reduced if you meet certain income requirements for specific public assistance programs.
Note: Governmental or nonprofit organizations determine whether an individual meets the requirements for a reduced -fee ID.
If you are age 62 or over, you may obtain a free Senior Citizen ID card good for 10 years.
Follow this link to change your address.