How Can I Make an Appointment With the DMV?

You may have heard horror stories about the long wait at the DMV. Wait times often vary based on location, time, and day. The best way to make sure you don't spend an entire day waiting in line is to set up an appointment ahead of time. In fact, some states require appointments for certain types of services.

  • Visit the DMV website. The California Department of Motor Vehicles will be used as an example. The procedure for making an online appointment in other states may vary.

  • Click the "Make an Appointment" link under the Online Services heading.

  • Select the type of appointment you need. You are presented with two options, "Behind-the-wheel driving test appointment" and "Office visit appointment."

Behind-the-Wheel Driving Test Appointment

  • Select the DMV office where you want to schedule an appointment.

  • Select what type of test you wish to take. Mark that you've completed a safety course if you are scheduling your motorcycle test.

  • Input your personal information. This includes your first and last name, driver's license number, birth date, and telephone number.

  • Click "Submit" at the bottom left of the screen.

Office Visit Appointment

  • Select the DMV office where you want to schedule an appointment.

  • Enter the number and type of items you wish to process at your appointment.

  • Input your personal information. This includes your first and last name, birth date, and telephone number. If other individuals are involved in the DMV matter, enter their first and last names as well.

  • Click "Submit" at the bottom left of the screen.