What the DL 44 Form Is and When You Need It
The DL 44 is California's official process form for a driver's license or identification card. You fill it out in person at a DMV office before you take your written and driving tests. The form collects your personal information, driving history, and medical details so the DMV can process your process and determine whether you meet California's requirements.
You need the DL 44 if you are getting your first California driver's license, renewing after your license has expired for more than a year, or switching from an out-of-state license to a California license. If you are renewing a valid license by mail or online, you do not use this form — the DMV sends you a different renewal notice instead.
The form itself is not something you print and bring with you. The DMV provides blank DL 44 forms at every field office, and staff help you complete it on the spot. You can view the form online to see what information you will need to bring, but the actual process happens at the office.
Key Takeaways
- The DL 44 is filled out at the DMV office, not printed at home, and you complete it before taking your tests.
- You need a valid passport, birth certificate, or other proof of identity and residency to complete the form.
- The form asks about your medical history, traffic convictions, and whether you have a valid Social Security number.
- Bring the documents listed on the DMV's checklist to avoid delays, because staff cannot process your process without them.
- The DL 44 PDF online is for reference only — use it to prepare, not to submit.
What Documents You Need to Bring
Before you go to the DMV, gather the documents the form requires. You will need proof of identity — a valid passport, birth certificate, or consular report of birth — and proof of California residency from the last 60 days, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name.
You also need your Social Security number or a letter from Social Security stating you do not have one. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring the letter with you. The DMV will not process your process without this information or documentation of why you cannot provide it.
If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you, and they will need to sign the form. If you are renewing after a suspension or revocation, bring documentation of any court orders or completion of required programs. The DMV website lists the full checklist by document type — review it before you go so you do not make a second trip.
How to Complete the Form at the DMV
When you arrive at the DMV office, check in and wait to be called. A staff member will hand you a blank DL 44 form and help you fill it out. You will provide your name, address, date of birth, and contact information. The form also asks whether you have any medical conditions that affect your driving, your traffic history, and whether you have been convicted of certain crimes.
Answer all questions truthfully. If you have a medical condition — such as diabetes, epilepsy, or vision problems — disclose it. The DMV may require a medical evaluation from your doctor before you can drive. Lying on the form can result in your license being suspended or revoked later, even after you pass your tests.
Once you and the staff member finish the form, you will sign it. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian signs as well. The DMV keeps the original and gives you a copy. You then proceed to the written test, and if you pass, you schedule your driving test.
Medical Conditions and Restrictions
The DL 44 asks about your health because California law requires the DMV to know if you have a condition that could affect your safety on the road. Common conditions the form asks about include vision problems, hearing loss, seizures, diabetes, and heart conditions. You are not automatically disqualified if you have a condition — the DMV may instead add restrictions to your license, such as corrective lenses or daylight-only driving.
If you report a condition, the DMV may ask you to have your doctor complete a Medical Evaluation Report (form DL 43 or DL 43A). Your doctor sends this directly to the DMV, and the DMV uses it to decide whether you can drive safely. This process can add a few weeks to your process, so plan ahead if you know you have a reportable condition.
Traffic History and Criminal Convictions
The DL 44 asks whether you have been convicted of certain traffic offenses or crimes. These include driving under the influence, reckless driving, vehicular assault, and felonies involving a vehicle. You must report all convictions, even if they happened in another state or many years ago. The DMV checks your driving record anyway, so dishonesty on the form will be discovered.
Some convictions do not automatically disqualify you, but they may delay your process while the DMV reviews your case. If you have a serious conviction, the DMV may deny your process or require you to wait a certain number of years before you can reapply. Be honest about your history — the DMV has access to court records and can verify what you report.
What Happens After You Submit the Form
After you complete and sign the DL 44, you take your written test at the same office. If you pass, you receive a temporary permit and schedule your behind-the-wheel test. The DMV processes your form and runs background checks while you prepare for your driving test.
If you pass your driving test, the DMV issues your license. The entire process from process to license typically takes one to two weeks, though it can be longer if the DMV needs additional medical information or if your background check raises questions. You can check the status of your process online using your driver's license number once it is issued.
Viewing and Preparing With the DL 44 PDF
The DL 44 PDF is available on the California DMV website under "Forms." You can read it and review the questions before your appointment so you know what information to bring. This is helpful because it lets you gather your documents ahead of time and think through your answers, especially if you have medical conditions or traffic history to report.
Do not print the PDF and try to fill it out at home. The DMV does not accept pre-filled forms, and you must complete the original form in person at the office with staff present. Using the PDF as a study guide is the right approach — it saves time when you arrive and reduces the chance of errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I fill out the DL 44 online before I go to the DMV?
No. You must complete the form in person at the DMV office with a staff member present. You can review the form online to prepare and gather your documents, but the actual process happens at the office.
What if I do not have all my documents when I go to the DMV?
The DMV will not process your process without proof of identity and residency. If you are missing documents, you will have to reschedule. Check the DMV's document checklist before you go to avoid a wasted trip.
Do I need to bring the DL 44 form with me, or does the DMV provide it?
The DMV provides the form at the office. You do not print or bring it with you. The PDF online is for reference only so you can see what information you will need.
What if I have a medical condition — will it stop me from getting a license?
Not necessarily. You must report it on the DL 44, and the DMV may ask your doctor for more information. Many conditions result in restrictions (like corrective lenses) rather than denial. The DMV decides on a case-by-case basis.
How long does it take to get my license after I submit the DL 44?
If you pass both your written and driving tests, you typically receive your license within one to two weeks. Medical reviews or background checks can extend this timeline. You can check your process status online once your temporary permit is issued.