California DMV Fontana: Hours, Services, and What to Bring

What the Fontana DMV Office Handles

The California DMV office in Fontana is located in San Bernardino County and handles most standard DMV transactions for residents in that area. You can renew your driver's license or ID card, take a written or driving test, register a vehicle, obtain a duplicate license, and handle address changes at this location. The office does not process commercial driver's license (CDL) tests — those happen at a separate testing facility — but it does handle regular Class C licenses and most vehicle-related paperwork.

Fontana is one of several DMV offices serving the Inland Empire region. If you live closer to San Bernardino, Victorville, or Ontario, you may find shorter wait times at those locations instead. The DMV website lets you check current wait times at each office before you go.

Key Takeaways

The Fontana DMV office is at 16400 Slover Avenue and is open Monday through Friday, with limited Saturday hours — call ahead to confirm current hours since they change seasonally.
You must bring a Real ID-compliant document (passport, birth certificate, or state ID) plus proof of residency and your Social Security number to renew your license or register a vehicle.
Taking a written or driving test at Fontana requires a reservation through the DMV website; walk-ins for tests are not accepted.
Wait times at Fontana often run 45 minutes to two hours during peak times, but you can check the live wait estimate on the DMV website before you leave home.
If you need a CDL test or a specialized transaction, you may need to visit a different DMV office or a third-party tester.

Address, Hours, and How to Make an Appointment

The Fontana DMV office is located at 16400 Slover Avenue, Fontana, CA 92337. Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with some Saturday hours available — though Saturday schedules vary by season and are not always offered. Call the office directly at (909) 350-3500 to confirm current hours before you visit, especially if you are planning a weekend trip.

You do not need an appointment for most transactions like renewing your license or registering a vehicle — you can walk in and take a number. However, if you are taking a written test or driving test, you must reserve a time slot through the DMV website (dmv.ca.gov) or by calling the office. Test reservations fill up quickly, particularly in the morning and early afternoon, so book as far ahead as the system allows.

The DMV website also shows the current wait time at Fontana and other nearby offices. Check this before you leave home; if the wait is over two hours, you may save time by visiting a less busy location or returning at a different time of day.

Documents You Need for Common Transactions

What you bring depends on what you are doing. For a driver's license renewal, bring a Real ID-compliant primary document (U.S. passport, birth certificate, passport card, or state ID), proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. If you are renewing by mail or online, you do not need to visit the office at all — the DMV will tell you whether you are may be able to access when you start the process.

For vehicle registration, bring your current registration, proof of insurance, your vehicle's title or a bill of sale if it is new to you, and proof of your address. If someone else owns the vehicle, bring a signed power of attorney or have the owner present. For a duplicate license or ID, bring your Real ID document and proof of address — this is one of the fastest transactions and usually takes under 30 minutes even during busy times.

If you are taking a written or driving test, bring your current license or ID, your test reservation confirmation, and proof of your address if you are a first-time applicant. Bring the original documents, not copies — the DMV will not accept photocopies for most transactions.

Taking a Written or Driving Test at Fontana

The Fontana office administers both written tests (the knowledge test for a new license) and behind-the-wheel driving tests. You must have a reservation; the DMV does not accept walk-ins for testing. Reserve your test slot on the DMV website or by calling (909) 350-3500. Slots typically fill 4 to 6 weeks in advance, so book early if you have a important date.

For the written test, bring your current ID, your reservation confirmation, and proof of address if you are a first-time applicant. The test takes about 20 minutes and you receive your score when ready. If you pass, you can often get a temporary license the same day; if you fail, you can usually schedule a retest within a few days.

For the driving test, bring your current license, your reservation confirmation, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, and wipers before the test begins. The test itself takes 15 to 20 minutes. You will know your result before you leave, and if you pass, you can receive your new license on the spot or by mail.

When You Cannot Use the Fontana Office

The Fontana DMV does not test for commercial driver's licenses (CDL). If you need a CDL test, you must go to a DMV office that offers CDL testing or use a third-party tester. The San Bernardino DMV office (also in San Bernardino County) handles CDL tests, as do several private testing facilities in the region. Call the Fontana office or check the DMV website to find the nearest CDL testing location.

Some specialized transactions — like obtaining a disabled person's placard, handling a suspended license, or dealing with a traffic violation hold — may require a visit to a different office or a phone call to the DMV's customer service line. If your transaction is unusual or you are unsure whether Fontana can handle it, call ahead before you go.

Nearby DMV Offices and Alternatives

If the Fontana office is too busy or does not offer what you need, several other DMV locations serve the Inland Empire. The San Bernardino DMV (348 West Hospital Road) is about 15 miles away and handles CDL tests and some specialized transactions. The Ontario DMV (1425 East Fourth Street) and Victorville DMV (15490 Smoke Tree Street) are also nearby and sometimes have shorter wait times than Fontana.

You can also handle many transactions online or by mail without visiting any office. License renewals, address changes, and vehicle registration renewals can often be completed through dmv.ca.gov if you meet the may be able to access requirements. The DMV website will tell you whether your specific transaction is available online.

Tips for a Faster Visit

Arrive early in the morning or mid-afternoon to avoid peak wait times. Mornings between 8:00 and 10:00 a.m. are usually less crowded than late morning or early afternoon. Bring all your documents in one place so you do not have to search for them at the counter. If you are unsure whether you have everything you need, call the office the day before to confirm your document list.

Check the DMV website for the current wait time before you leave home. If the wait is over 90 minutes, consider visiting a different day or a different office. The DMV website also lets you complete some paperwork online before you arrive, which can speed up your transaction once you are at the counter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online instead of going to Fontana?

You can renew online if your license is not expired, you have not had any violations or suspensions, and you are not changing your address or name. Go to dmv.ca.gov and follow the online renewal process. If you do not meet these requirements, you must visit an office in person.

How far in advance do I need to book a driving test?

Driving test slots at Fontana typically fill 4 to 6 weeks ahead. Book as soon as you are ready to test. If all slots are full, check nearby offices like San Bernardino or Ontario, which may have earlier openings.

What if I fail my driving test?

You can usually schedule a retest within a few days at the same office. There is a retest fee. You do not need to retake the written test unless your written test result has expired (usually after six months).

Is there parking at the Fontana DMV?

Yes, the office has a parking lot. Parking is free. Arrive early if you are going during peak hours, as the lot can fill up.

What should I do if I need a CDL test?

The Fontana office does not offer CDL testing. Visit the San Bernardino DMV office or call (909) 350-3500 to find a third-party tester near you. CDL tests are more specialized and require a different facility than regular driver's license tests.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.