California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV/RMV) Customer Service Issues

My wife recently bought a [redacted] Kia Soul with VIN number KNDJP3A52F[redacted]. We noticed that the temporary dealer tags were expiring on June 24th. She contacted the dealership when she didn't receive the permanent tags from the DMV. They realized the smog inspection had not been done and asked her to return for the service. Now the dealer tags have expired, and she's worried about driving the car legally without proper plates. Where are the license plates for my wife's car?

I am struggling to obtain a certified copy of my birth certificate with my "True Full Name." As a homeless veteran in a shelter managed by "Volunteers of America Los Angeles," I have been advised that using my US Government embossed DD214 (Military Discharge Record) at the DMV to get a CA ID (potentially REAL ID) might serve as a Primary Identification similar to a birth certificate. Before investing time and money (which I have little of) on a potentially fruitless trip to the DMV, I seek confirmation on the validity of this information. The ca.gov website only leads me in circles, lacking a direct way to submit questions for email responses. I aim to clarify if a certified original copy of my DD214, endorsed by a higher government authority, mirroring the exact details provided in my birth certificate when I enlisted, can be considered by the California DMV as an acceptable Primary Identification for the purpose of obtaining a California REAL ID.

While visiting my mom in NY, I was pulled over for using my phone while driving. The officer understood my situation since I had no cash, only a check, and my cards were blocked. I had been visiting family and my cards were not activated. I was given paperwork to return to the DMV, but I didn’t receive a response, so I called for confirmation. I was assured everything was fine. However, I was stopped again and now I can't drive. I'm alone in Florida and need to work. I need my license back quickly to keep my job. This situation wasn't my fault, and I need help urgently. Please respond promptly.

Hello, My name is Cristian Gipson, D[redacted]. Currently, I have an interlock device in my car, and a couple of issues have arisen. The DMV mentioned that your office is the only one that can assist me. I have been working in the auto industry for around 20 years and need to drive other cars without this device in mine. The setback is affecting my situation significantly, as it hinders my ability to pursue additional work, such as driving for Uber or Lyft. Recently, I almost got locked out because I wasn't informed about a few crucial matters regarding the device's operation. Firstly, if the device requests another breath sample when I park at home and turn off my car, I must provide it; otherwise, I could face a $75 fine and a $45 reset fee. Secondly, allowing others to use the device could also lead to being locked out, incurring similar fines. I have been sober for over six years and completing an 18-month class. I am kindly requesting the removal of this device so I can proceed with my life uninterrupted. Your assistance is crucial, and I would greatly appreciate your help. Thank you for considering my situation. Best regards, Cris Gipson

My grandfather purchased a car a few years back and listed both his and my mom's names on the registration, separated by a /. Now that my grandfather has passed away, my grandma intends to gift me the car. My mom will be transferring the title to me using a family transfer. I need guidance on the paperwork required post my grandpa's passing to allow me to register the vehicle in Sacramento, CA.

I was arrested on January 18, [redacted]. The officers suspected I was intoxicated, but after taking the test, it showed 0.0. They claimed I had drugs in my system and took me to Santa Rita Jail without allowing me to contact my lawyer until after they took a blood sample. When I appeared in court four days later, I was released because there were no charges against me; however, they mentioned a warrant in San Joaquin County, which took 14 days to resolve. I provided my wife with a lawyer's contact who helped clear my name. Now, the Tracy DMV informed me that my Commercial Driver's License (CDL) was suspended for a DUI. I am seeking clarification on the status of my CDL suspension and the reason behind it.

I have an issue with my driving permit. I moved from Wisconsin to California last summer with an unfinished driving school requirement. I already had a Wisconsin permit but didn't complete the behind-the-wheel lessons there. When I tried to get a California permit, they told me I must finish the driving classes with an instructor before obtaining a license since I was 17. Can I wait until I turn 18 to take the behind-the-wheel test for my driver's license instead of paying for the driving lessons now?

Hello, my name is Jose Carlos Corral. I have a question regarding my driving privileges. I am currently restricted to driving only with an interlock ignition device, which is installed in my [redacted] Accord Sport. I was told at the DMV that I am eligible for removal of the interlock on 10-5-[redacted], which is about 3 months from today's date of 7-2-[redacted]. I recently leased a new [redacted] Acura TLX for my girlfriend, although it is signed under my name, she is the one driving it. It is parked in my driveway unused. Do I need to have an interlock installed on the new vehicle as well considering the short time until I am eligible for removal on my current vehicle? Since I am not driving it and it is for my girlfriend's use. Thank you.

I took my driver's test on March 16 for renewal on April 4. I completed the fingerprint, eye test, and photo procedures. Unfortunately, I forgot my marriage certificate for identification and had to return with it later. However, when I came back, my information could not be located in the system. I wasn't given a passing receipt during the process and was unaware of the requirement until my husband received one. I was informed that I would receive my license in four weeks. I have reached out via email and written correspondence but have not received a response. I am simply requesting my driver's license without having to repeat the entire process, as it is causing me stress due to my age and health concerns. I drive carefully, avoiding highways and busy local roads whenever possible. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Thank you.

I received two DUIs 20 years ago. Avoided driving and worked near home. My husband drove us to Santa Barbara for work. Completed 18 months but only attended 10 classes so far. Later, had to care for sick mother-in-law, had to travel with 3 dogs, a bird, and a cat, needing rides. Bought a car without a license, got another DUI. Attended first offenders class as told they wouldn't look back more than 10 years. Recently informed to get SR-22, show proof of insurance, and take a test, costing more money. Went and now being told to do an 18-month program again. Spent thousands already. Need to care for mother, only family left. Saw others with multiple DUIs getting restricted licenses. Why not me? Told to get SR-22 and contact Sacramento after purchasing a non-refundable policy. Is there anything I can do? Almost 60 years old. Should I consider moving to get a license? Avoiding returning to Central Coast Headway. They are disorganized and tried to overcharge. Struggling to cope in class. Their methods seem unprofessional, with an elderly man in the office who is listed on Megan's list. What to do next?

Hello, my name is Jonathan F. I have a query regarding my California Vehicle License Plates 8HIW883. My car is registered with the California DMV in Fairfield. We relocated from Fairfield, CA to Bismarck, North Dakota in May [redacted]. Now, my brother-in-law residing at [redacted] Crimson Clover Dr., Fairfield, CA [redacted], received a notification about my Environmental License Plate being available. I am wondering if I can still obtain my specialized plates ([redacted] Legacy) by authorizing my Brother-in-law to pick them up on my behalf, following the requirements stated on the notification.

I contacted CA DMV at 1-[redacted] to address my Driver’s License renewal matter, which arrived in the mail on Monday, July 8th, [redacted]. My previous license had the Real ID on it, but my current license is issued with federal limits applied, which is incorrect. After being directed to call [redacted] CA DMV Issuance Department, I was offered a call back service. Despite a 40-minute wait on hold with the initial number, I was swiftly redirected to call the latter. I reached out to GETHUMAN for assistance and have been waiting 22 minutes for a return call from CA DMV Issuance Department. Alex provided options to either fax the current license to [redacted] or email it to [redacted] I believe this process is inefficient and advocate for receiving a new card with the Real ID, which I did not receive as my prior license had the Real ID included. I have images available upon request. Thank you, Les

I paid my vehicle registration renewal fee online yesterday, but it processed a 2-year payment till Sep [redacted]. The car I paid for is leased, and I will return it to the dealer within 2 months before the 9/9/[redacted]-9/9/[redacted] registration year. I found a similar case in the DMV CA website's Q&A section that mentions I can request a refund for the 2nd year fee if I return the car before the 2nd year cycle starts. Should I wait for the 2nd year's payment refund after returning the lease car, or can I ask for a full refund now for both years and make a new payment for just this year?

Hello, my name is Nicole G. In [redacted], I received a letter stating that my driver's license was being returned with all sections and codes waived. I require this letter to present to the DMV as they have no record of it. The letter instructed me to take it to the DMV, and I need it urgently to obtain my driver's license. I recently acquired a vehicle and wish to follow all procedures correctly. Please contact me as soon as possible as I urgently need the letter to proceed. Thank you.

I fully paid for a new [redacted] VW Golf at the Auburn, WA VW Dealership. They assured me they would handle my CA license plates, registration, and title, and I was to receive them by mail. I was driving with a Transit Permit that expired upon reaching Los Altos. After visiting the Santa Clara DMV for a Temporary License, VIN Verification, and SMOG Certificate, the dealership in Auburn advised me to stop any further DMV actions and refunded my fee. They promised to send necessary paperwork via UPS to Santa Clara DMV and schedule an appointment. Despite their assurance, I am unsure if the papers reached Santa Clara DMV, as promised by Auburn VW through UPS. I seek confirmation from anyone who can check and let me know through email. Thank you. Regards, Ed Edward D Redmond Jr. [redacted] Cristo Rey Drive Los Altos, CA [redacted] Cell: [redacted]

I mistakenly paid for an off-highway registration for a quad that was sold four years ago. I recently realized the registration fees of $75 were for our previous quad, as the stickers received belong to the old vehicle. The check has been cashed by the DMV. I believe the new owners did not transfer the registration properly. The previous quad belonged to Laura Fuentes Uresti, License# 01US58, Vehicle Identification Number: L6ZSCJLA9D[redacted]. I need guidance on correcting this error as I had thought the fees were for our current quad, not the old one.

I went to the DMV to report that my [redacted] Honda Civic was damaged in June 17, [redacted], and hasn't been drivable since. I misplaced the document they gave me and now need a salvage title to have it towed to a junkyard in Pahrump, NV. The car has been in my garage for over 2 years, and with the property being sold, it has to be removed soon. I reside at [redacted] Oakleaf Avenue, Pahrump, NV [redacted], under the name Diane M. Kimball, with CA DL #A[redacted]. Please assist in getting the salvage title so I can dispose of the vehicle promptly. Thank you for your assistance. - Diane M. Armstead Kimball

I had my driving test this morning (8/6/19 at 9:20 AM). The instructor that tested me was not initially going to, but she proceeded. During the test, there were instances where I felt the instructions were unclear and the examiner's behavior seemed abrupt. I believe more attention should have been paid to the process. I desire a retest with a different examiner, preferably before the end of the month, as I am due to give birth on the 9th, and having my license is essential for transportation. Thank you for considering my request. Best regards, Tristen B.

I recently discovered 2 past accident claims on my DMV record that I was unaware of, leading to increased car insurance rates and difficulty in obtaining insurance. The first claim dates back to 3/4/15, and the second to 9/15/15. I closed the claim for the 3/4/15 accident after issues with esurance staff. Additionally, I did not file the second claim and was informed by AIS agents that $[redacted] was paid out for it. I never received notifications about these claims being added to my DMV record as I did not pursue the first one and did not initiate the second. Both claims should be beyond the 3-year limit for non-injury, no-fault accidents. I have already reached out to esurance providing claim numbers and additional information. I possess the police report for the first accident, although it lacks details. In [redacted], esurance mentioned the other driver had expired and out-of-state insurance from New York, but the attending officer did not confirm this during the accident report. The situation was chaotic, and I could not fully document the events due to low light and a poor-quality phone camera.

I am seeking an extension for my upcoming driver’s license renewal as I am currently in a rehab facility recovering from a hospital stay. I am unable to access my smartphone, email, or computer, so a friend is helping me with this communication. I kindly request a two to three-week extension from my current deadline of 9/1/[redacted]. My driver’s license number is N[redacted], and my name is Linda Lou Steimel. My cell phone number is [redacted], and my home phone number is [redacted]. Please email the confirmation to my friend’s email address: [redacted] If possible, could a DMV employee contact me on my cell phone or provide a direct number for me to call? Thank you for your assistance during this time. Linda Lou Steimel