How to Apply for a Driving School Operator License

Apply for your license and pay your fees online.

To apply for your license, submit the following:

• Application for A Driving School Operator License (OL 217) or Application for A Driving School Operator License Internet-Only (OL 217I) (if your driving school is internet only).
• Application for Occupational License Personal History Questionnaire, Business Licensing Unit (OL 29B).
• Live scan fingerprint and Request for Live Scan Clearance (receipt) (DMV 8016).
• Driving school operator examination. 
• 2,000 hour certification of behind-the-wheel teaching from a licensed California driving school (not required for internet-only driving schools).
• Proof of age (must be at least 21 years old).

Once you have completed these forms and collected all documents, schedule an appointment at a local DMV inspector office to submit your paperwork and fees, and complete a written examination. You have three attempts to pass the written examination.

You must complete your application within one year or a new application with all examinations and fees will be required.

Fees

• $100 non-refundable application fee
• $1 family support program
• $100 examination fee or $55 internet-only examination fee
• $55 retest fee (if applicable)
• $15 duplicate or replacement license fee (if applicable)

Driving School Operator Examination

As part of your application, you will take a written exam that covers:

• Traffic laws.
• Safe driving practices.
• Operation of motor vehicles.
• Knowledge of teaching methods and techniques pertaining to the teaching of automobile driver education and driver training (DE/DT) to minors under 18.
• Driving school statutes and regulations, business ethics, office procedures, and elementary record keeping.

The test is required every three years.

Application Checklist

Take a look at the Driving School Operator Original Application Checklist (OL 225) or Driving School Operator Internet-Only Original Application Checklist (OL 225I) to make sure you completed all the steps.

How to Renew a Driving School Operator License

Renew your license and pay your fees online.

To renew your license, submit either an Application for Renewal of Driving School Operator License (OL 211) or Application for Renewal of Driving School Operator License Internet – Only (OL 211I). 

Fees

• $100 renewal application fee
• $1 family support program

How to Modify a Driving School Operator License

Modify your license and pay your fees online.

To modify an existing license, complete and submit the appropriate form listed on the Driving School & All-Terrain School License Modifications.