In July 2025, new California laws took effect that increased safety requirements for school pupil transportation drivers, including background checks, drug tests, and record checks, under Senate Bill 88. Other laws included a provision requiring private carriers of passengers to be under DMV regulation and a new requirement for bus passengers to use seatbelts, though these were in prior years, not 2025.

California Senate Bill 88 (SB 88)

Applies to:

Drivers transporting students for school-related activities who are employed by or contracted with a local educational agency (LEA).
New Requirements:
- Pass a criminal background check.
- Maintain a satisfactory driving record.
- Pass a drug and alcohol test.
- Complete first aid training.
- Undergo a tuberculosis risk assessment.
- Receive a medical examination.
- Complete required training.
- Ensure the school vehicle is in good working order, including inspections and equipment like fire extinguishers.

https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/vehicle-industry-services/motor-carrier-services-mcs/employer-pull-notice-epn-program/

All driver’s licenses MAY now be renewed online. Your notice may tell you to come into an office but due to special circumstances related to COVID-19, try online first.

Behind-the-wheel Driving Tests:
Both commercial and non-commercial drivers tests will be suspended beginning December 14 through at least January 11, 2021. Those with appointments will be notified of the cancellations. Appointments will be rescheduled at a later date. Motorcycle driving tests have not been canceled.For more information, please use the DMV link below.

https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/

Medical Certifications:

The CDE issued an industry email extending all (expiring) Instructor Credentials to June 30, 2020 to follow the State and Federal extensions of CDL’s. This date was given for Commercial License extensions including Medical Certifications on the Federal level. This date has been used for extending expirations as well as training periods.

During COVID-19, if any California CDL Driver is able to obtain the correct medical forms to be submitted to the DMV, while they're closed during the COVID-19 crises, you may submit them electronically by using the link below.

https://virtual.dmv.ca.gov/submit-medical-examination-report/medical-examination-submission-form/

In certain cases, CDL drivers cannot meet the DOT medical requirements regarding physical impairment, vision, hearing or diabetes, and cannot obtain a medical card. The FMCSA allows you to apply for exemptions that will keep you driving. Follow the link below for the requirements.

https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/medical/driver-medical-requirements/driver-exemption-programs

Drowsy Driving: Follow the link below for more information.

https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drowsy-driving

This page is currently under construction, and is constantly being updated; it may be temporarily missing some information.

Thank you for your patience!