Going Green: California DMV Announces Paperless Notices For Driver's License Renewals

The California Department of Motor Vehicles is going green, as they announced they will now be offering Californians the option to receive driver's license renewals notices by email. No more paper renewal notices mailed to you!

According to a press release from the California DMV, once a customer signs into or creates a secure online account, they can then opt in to receive driver's license renewal notices by email. Besides helping the environment, the email option also helps to simplify the renewal process by linking to the sign-in page for the online renewal form and provide information about applying for a REAL ID.

DMV Director Steve Gordon said, “Our customers can now ‘go green’ with the DMV and opt in to receive an email instead of a paper renewal notice in the mail when their driver’s license is about to expire. This new paperless option is convenient for the customer, makes renewing online a breeze and will save tons of paper every year. We hope our customers see the value and sign up for this new electronic option.”

When Does It Begin?

So, when does this new process begin? The DMV will start sending out electronic renewal notices to eligible customers who opt in beginning in August for driver's licenses expiring in December 2021. Normally the DMV will send out renewal notices about three to four months before the license is set to expire, typically every five years.

Security Is Key

As with any other online platform, security is always key when it comes to sharing personal information online. The DMV states they implemented the new email notification service with security in mind. The actual email renewal reminders will not include the full driver's license number. Also, the DMV does not share any customer email addresses with private companies.

Shift To Online Services

The California DMV has been taking the steps to offer more digital services. Because of this, most DMV tasks do not require a visit to a DMV office. They are encouraging customers to use their online services to complete transactions, which includes driver's license and vehicle registrations renewals.

With this shift to more online services, the DMV offices will have more space to accommodate Californians who need a REAL ID or complete other tasks that require an office visit.