California DMV orders 11,000 drivers to retake test

The California Department of Motor Vehicles has ordered approximately 11,000 drivers to retake the state's written license exam within 30 days or face license cancellation after identifying unspecified irregularities in their original test results. The agency has not explained the nature of the anomalies, leaving affected motorists confused and scrambling to comply.

The DMV sent notification letters stating the drivers' test results showed "noncompliance with the driver testing criteria required by state law" and that their licenses were therefore issued in error. The affected exams were taken between July 2025 and April 2026. Recipients must schedule an appointment to retake the test; walk-ins are not permitted. Drivers are instructed to bring the notification letter and their license or permit to the appointment.

Officials have emphasized the action is part of regular internal monitoring to protect the integrity of the licensing process. A DMV spokesperson said ensuring the integrity of the testing process is essential, as knowledge tests confirm drivers understand road rules. The agency stated the irregularities are not related to artificial intelligence or internal technical...