The California Department of Motor Vehicles will resume behind-the-wheel drive tests Friday, June 26.
Behind-the-wheel tests have been suspended since mid-March.
The DMV will automatically reschedule all canceled drive test appointments. Appointments for new behind-the-wheel tests will not be available until previously canceled tests are completed.
The DMV expects clearing the backlog for all previously canceled tests will take several weeks.
Numerous new testing protocols will be implemented in the interested of health and safety. Behind-the-wheel drive test applicants will be required to wear a face covering and answer screening questions before starting the exam.
DMV examiners will conduct more of the test outside the vehicle when possible. Pre-test instructions will be provided outdoors. Examiners will wear protective equipment including face coverings and gloves. Examiners will also place plastic coverings on the test vehicle's passenger seat and floorboard.
At least two windows will be required to be lowered during the test.
Applicants in Los Angeles, Orange Riverside, San Bernardino and San Diego counties will be required to have their temperatures checked. Temperature checks will be required statewide in the coming weeks.
Testers with expired permits will be required to fill out a new application online prior to their office visit and check in 30 minutes before their appointment time.
Changes are being made to expedite the testing process to increase the number of exams it can administer each day including shortening the testing route in many areas, increasing examiner staff and expanding the hours when tests are conducted. Saturday service for drive-tests will begin in some high volume locations.
The DMV continues to recommend that customers use its online services when possible.
