What’s Changed in 2025 For Driving Education?

Meet well-known East Bay driving school expert William Allenbaugh, the heart and soul behind Bill’s Defensive Driving School. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed instructor and training from a retired California Highway Patrol Officer, Bill brings real-world expertise to every lesson. As a long time Bay Area resident and driving instructor, Bill has seen the East Bay’s roads get less safe over the years. Consequently, he is on a mission to create secure, responsible, and confident drivers. Bill updated The Monthly about California’s new driving laws and procedures for 2025.

Knowledge Test for Seniors

If you’re 70 or older and renewing your driver’s license, you may not need to take a test—check your renewal notice to confirm.   If a knowledge test is required, choose “eLearning” when completing your online application for a quick, stress-free option with no risk of failing. You can also submit your Driver’s License and ID Application online or visit a DMV office to complete the process. If you need a driving skills refresher, contact Bill’s Defensive Driving School. They regularly work with seniors and offer an in-car senior driving refresher class.

Digital Driver’s Licenses Are Here!

California’s trying out digital driver’s licenses. You can now add yours to Google Wallet if you’re part of the pilot program. Sounds cool, but keep in mind that most places, including law enforcement, still won’t accept digital IDs, so don’t ditch your physical license just yet. to enroll in the pilot program, visit the CA DMV mobile driver’s license pilot program.

REAL ID Deadline Extended

The deadline to get a REAL ID is now May 7, 2025. After that, you’ll need one to fly domestically or enter certain federal buildings. To get a REAL ID, you just bring proof of your name, Social Security number, and address to the DMV.

Job Ads Can’t Require a Driver’s License (Unless Necessary)

Starting in 2025, job ads can’t list a driver’s license as a requirement unless it’s genuinely part of the job, like delivery driving. This change helps people who use other ways of getting around, like public transportation, ride-shares, or biking.

Bill’s Defensive Driving School is a trusted and experienced driving school dedicated to helping new drivers gain the skills and confidence they need to be safe on the road. With a strong focus on defensive driving, road safety, and test preparation, Bill’s provides patient, professional instruction tailored to each student’s learning style.  Whether a student is just starting and needs to take online classes to prepare for the written knowledge test or is ready for in-car lessons, Bill’s Defensive Driving School provides expert instruction in a safe, supportive environment. With flexible scheduling and a commitment to excellence, it remains a top choice for new drivers and their families. They can be contacted 7 days a week at (877) 689-1480.