Essential Guide to California Driving Laws for Senior Citizens

Driving in California comes with specific responsibilities, and as a senior citizen, it’s important to understand how the law applies to you. Whether you’re running errands in Los Angeles or taking a trip up the coast, age-related changes in vision, reflexes, and health can affect your time behind the wheel. California lawmakers recognize this and have created regulations that aim to reduce risk on the road. This guide walks through the most relevant rules and procedures affecting older drivers, so you can make informed decisions and avoid legal or safety trouble.

In-Person License Renewal After Age 70

If you’re 70 or older, California law (Vehicle Code § 12814) requires you to renew your driver’s license in person. This applies to every renewal, not just every few cycles. The DMV may ask you to take a vision test, a written test, or even a driving test based on your record.

Your eyesight will be checked at each renewal. If your vision doesn’t meet the minimum standard of 20/40 in one or both eyes (with or without corrective lenses), the DMV may request a vision report from your eye doctor. Based on that report, the DMV could restrict your license or ask for additional testing. These steps are meant to prevent unsafe situations, especially in busy traffic or poor weather.

The in-person renewal process is also an opportunity for the DMV to review your driving history. Any pattern of collisions or traffic violations may trigger a re-examination, which could include both written and behind-the-wheel components.

How Medical Conditions Affect Your Driving Privileges

The DMV is allowed to evaluate any condition that could impair your ability to drive safely. Under Vehicle Code § 13800, the department can act on information provided by law enforcement, doctors, or concerned individuals.

Certain diagnoses, especially those that affect consciousness or coordination, like epilepsy or dementia, often result in a formal review. California Health and Safety Code § 103900 requires doctors to report patients with disorders characterized by lapses of consciousness. Even if a condition doesn’t fall into that category, a doctor can still recommend restrictions or evaluations if they think your driving ability is compromised.

In some cases, the DMV may request a Driver Medical Evaluation (Form DL 546). This document is completed by your physician and helps determine whether it’s safe for you to continue driving. Based on the results, your license may be left unchanged, restricted (such as allowing driving only during the day), or suspended.

Vision, Memory, and Reaction Time Are All Reviewed

• You won’t automatically lose your license just because of age. However, the DMV will watch closely for signs that your driving skills may no longer meet safety standards. This includes slower reaction times, confusion at intersections, and difficulty processing information while driving.
• When renewing your license, DMV staff may observe you for signs of hesitation, misunderstanding of rules, or coordination issues. If they have concerns, you may be asked to take a Supplemental Driving Performance Evaluation — a road test designed to assess judgment, observation, and physical control of your vehicle.
• Even minor issues, such as a delayed response to traffic signals or difficulty changing lanes, can lead to recommendations for license restrictions. These aren’t meant to punish drivers but to reduce the chances of car accidents, especially in complex urban traffic environments.

Key Traffic Rules Every Driver Should Review

• Many crashes involving drivers occur at intersections, during left turns, or while merging. That’s why understanding right-of-way rules is crucial. Under Vehicle Code § 21800 to § 21809, failure to yield when required — especially to pedestrians — can lead to citations or worse.
• Vehicle Code § 22350 says you must drive at a speed that is reasonable for current conditions, regardless of the posted speed limit. Fog, rain, darkness, and traffic volume are all factors that can require you to slow down. For senior drivers, who may take longer to react or identify hazards, reducing speed is often necessary even on clear days.
• Distracted driving rules also apply. You cannot use a handheld device while driving, and while hands-free use is allowed, it’s not recommended if it divides your attention. You are also expected to follow California’s seat belt laws under § 27315 and ensure all passengers, especially young children, are properly secured using the correct car seats or booster seats.

Understanding Liability in Accidents

If you’re involved in a crash, California’s insurance rules determine who pays. California follows a “fault” system — the driver who caused the crash is financially responsible. That means if someone else hit you due to reckless or careless behavior, their insurance must cover your losses.

The law (Vehicle Code § 16020 to § 16025) requires all drivers to carry liability insurance. If you are not at fault, you still need to provide your insurance information to comply with state law. Document the scene thoroughly. Photos, witness names, and a police report can make a difference later, especially if injuries are involved.

You may also need to consider other causes of the crash. A poorly designed road, malfunctioning traffic signal, or vehicle defect could play a role. In those cases, additional parties may be legally responsible.

Driving Confidence and Safety Strategies

• No one wants to feel uncertain behind the wheel. But recognizing when to adjust your driving habits — or take a break from driving altogether — is part of staying responsible. If driving at night or during rush hour feels overwhelming, consider sticking to quieter times of day.
• It’s also helpful to evaluate whether your car is still a good fit. Newer vehicles offer features like blind-spot detection, lane-keeping assistance, and rearview cameras that can improve safety. These tools won’t replace your awareness but can help reduce the risk of overlooking a car or pedestrian.
• Many senior drivers benefit from refresher courses. Programs like the Mature Driver Improvement Program, offered through DMV-approved providers, review updated traffic laws and provide practical tips tailored to older drivers. These courses can also result in a discount on your auto insurance.
• Finally, keep your doctor informed. If you start a new medication, ask whether it affects alertness or coordination. Even common prescriptions can make driving riskier. Don’t guess — ask and decide together whether driving remains a safe option.

Contact Los Angeles Car Accident Attorney Samer Habbas

If you’ve been injured in a collision — whether caused by a distracted driver, unsafe road conditions, or a sudden medical emergency — it’s important to understand what comes next. A knowledgeable Los Angeles car accident attorney can review your case, explain what compensation might be available, and help you take the right steps toward recovery. To speak with someone about your situation, contact Law Offices of Samer Habbas & Associates by calling 949-727-9300 or contacting us online for a free consultation.