California DMV Suspends Behind-The-Wheel Driving Tests

The California Department of Motor Vehicles has decided to suspend behind-the-wheel driving tests as California continues to struggle with rising COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations.

The temporary suspension will begin on December 14 and last at least two weeks, according to the DMV's website.

The suspension does not currently apply to motorcycle drive tests.

In a statement, the DMV said the action is to protect the health and safety of customers and employees.

"These tests require two people to share space in one vehicle and that presents potential risk to both parties, particularly while COVID-19 is circulation widely throughout the state."

Any tests that were scheduled within the next two weeks are canceled and will be rescheduled at a later date.

The DMV expects behind-the-wheel tests to resume no sooner than December 28, 2020.

This is the second time this year the DMV has temporarily suspended behind-the-wheel tests due to the pandemic.

The first suspension began in mid-March and lasted for three months. The DMV resumed the tests in June with safety protocols that required face masks, temperature checks, seat covers, and driving with car windows cracked for air circulation.

The DMV offices in California remain open to customers despite the new suspension.

However, they do encourage customers to check if a transaction can be completed online before coming into the office.

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