What happens if you fail to renew your driver's license before it expires?

Answer: B — You may have to take a written and driving test

If you fail to renew your driver's license before it expires, you may be required to take both a written and driving test in order to obtain a new license. This requirement is in place to ensure that drivers remain knowledgeable about current traffic laws and safe driving practices. The state considers expired licenses to be an indication that the driver is no longer deemed fit to operate a vehicle without demonstrating their competency again. Renewing a driver's license is designed to demonstrate continued proficiency, and when a license is expired, the individual may have missed updates in traffic laws or changes in road safety requirements. Therefore, in an effort to ensure safety on the roads, a new written and driving test may be mandated. Renewing an expired license without additional steps, facing no penalties, or continuing to drive legally are not viable scenarios because they do not prioritize road safety or adhere to California's regulations governing driver's licenses.