Where the Long Beach DMV is located and what it handles

The Long Beach DMV office is located at 2701 North Lakewood Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90712. This office handles standard driver's license and identification card services, vehicle registration and renewal, title transfers, and address changes for residents in the Long Beach area and surrounding communities.

The Long Beach office is one of several DMV locations serving Los Angeles County. It is not a full-service office for all DMV transactions — some services like commercial driver's license testing or certain commercial vehicle registrations may require a visit to a larger regional office. Before making the trip, check what your specific transaction requires on the California DMV website or by calling ahead.

Key Takeaways

  • The Long Beach DMV is at 2701 North Lakewood Boulevard and handles driver's licenses, ID cards, vehicle registration, and address changes for the area.
  • You can make an appointment through the California DMV website, which is faster than walk-in service and reduces wait times significantly.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — the DMV will not accept photocopies for most transactions, and missing documents will require a return visit.
  • Hours vary by day and season, so check the DMV website before you go; the office is closed on some state holidays.
  • If you cannot visit in person, you can handle some transactions by mail, including address changes and certain registration renewals.

How to make an appointment at the Long Beach office

The California DMV uses an online appointment system. Go to dmv.ca.gov, select "Make an Appointment," choose the Long Beach location, and pick the service you need. The system will show available dates and times, usually several weeks out. Appointments typically reduce your wait time from hours to 15 to 30 minutes.

If you do not have internet access or prefer to book by phone, call 1-800-777-0133. The phone line can be busy during peak hours, so early morning or late afternoon calls often connect faster. When you call, have your driver's license number or identification number ready, and know which service you need — the representative will ask for both.

Walk-in service is available but not recommended. Wait times at the Long Beach office can exceed two hours during midday and mid-week. If you must walk in, arrive before 10 a.m. or after 3 p.m. for shorter waits.

Documents you need for common transactions

For a driver's license renewal, bring your current license, proof of residency (a recent utility bill or lease), and proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return). If you are renewing by mail, you do not need to visit the office at all — the DMV will mail you a renewal form if you are may be able to access.

For an address change, bring your current driver's license or ID card and proof of your new address. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. You can also change your address by mail by filling out Form DL 43 and mailing it with a copy of your proof of address.

For vehicle registration renewal, bring your registration card, proof of insurance, and proof of residency. If you are registering a vehicle for the first time in California, bring the title, bill of sale, and proof of a smog inspection (if required for your vehicle's year and type).

For a title transfer, bring the current title signed by the previous owner, a bill of sale, proof of insurance, and proof of residency. If the vehicle requires a smog inspection, bring proof of that as well. The DMV will not accept photocopies of the title — it must be the original document.

Hours and wait times at the Long Beach location

The Long Beach DMV is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hours may change during state holidays or for maintenance. Check dmv.ca.gov before you visit to confirm the office is open on your planned day.

Wait times vary by day and time. Tuesdays and Wednesdays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. are typically the busiest. Mondays and Fridays after 3 p.m., and Saturdays after 11 a.m., usually have shorter waits. An appointment cuts wait time dramatically — most people with appointments are seen within 30 minutes of their scheduled time.

What to do if you cannot visit in person

Many DMV transactions can be completed by mail without visiting the Long Beach office. Address changes can be done by mailing Form DL 43 with proof of your new address. Driver's license renewals by mail are available if you are not changing your address, have not had a license suspension, and meet other may be able to access requirements — the DMV will send you a renewal notice if you may have access to.

Vehicle registration renewals can also be done by mail if you have not changed your address and your vehicle does not require a smog inspection. The registration renewal notice will include instructions for mailing payment and your registration card.

For transactions that require an in-person visit, such as a first-time driver's license or a title transfer, you must go to the office or another DMV location. There is no remote option for these services.

Parking and accessibility at the Long Beach DMV

The Long Beach office has a parking lot on site with spaces reserved for people with disabilities. Street parking is also available on Lakewood Boulevard and nearby residential streets, though it can be limited during busy hours. Arrive early if you plan to park on the street.

The office is wheelchair accessible, with accessible restrooms and parking spaces near the entrance. If you need additional accommodations, call ahead at 1-800-777-0133 to let the office know what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license at the Long Beach DMV if it has already expired?

Yes. California allows you to renew a license up to five years after expiration. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. If your license expired more than five years ago, you will need to take a written test and vision test, and you may need to retake the driving test depending on your age.

Do I need a smog check before registering my vehicle in Long Beach?

It depends on your vehicle's year, make, and mileage. Vehicles older than four years typically require a smog inspection. The DMV website has a tool where you enter your vehicle information and it tells you whether a smog check is required. Get the inspection done before you visit the DMV — you will need the certificate.

What if I do not have proof of residency?

Proof of residency must be a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current address. If you do not have a utility bill or lease, other documents that work include a mortgage statement, property tax bill, insurance policy, or government mail. If you have none of these, call the Long Beach office to ask what alternative documents they will accept.

How long does it take to get a new driver's license after I explore?

Standard processing takes about two weeks. If you need your license sooner, you can request a temporary license at the office, which is valid for 60 days while you wait for the permanent one to arrive by mail. There is no extra charge for a temporary license.

Can I change my address online instead of going to the DMV?

Yes, if you have a California driver's license or ID card. Go to dmv.ca.gov and use the online address change tool. You will need your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The change takes effect when ready online, though your new card will arrive by mail in about two weeks.