Where the Redwood City DMV is Located

The Redwood City Department of Motor Vehicles office is at 1455 El Camino Real, Redwood City, CA 94063. This is the main DMV branch serving the Redwood City area and the surrounding communities in San Mateo County. The office handles standard DMV transactions including driver's license renewals, vehicle registration, and address changes.

Redwood City is located on the Peninsula, roughly 25 miles south of San Francisco. If you are using public transit, Caltrain stops near the DMV location. Street parking is available in the area, though it can be limited during peak hours. The office is not located inside a mall or shopping center — it is a standalone DMV facility.

Key Takeaways

  • The Redwood City DMV is at 1455 El Camino Real and handles driver's licenses, vehicle registration, and address changes for San Mateo County residents.
  • You must make an appointment before visiting; walk-ins are not accepted at this location.
  • Bring your current ID, proof of residency, and any documents specific to your transaction (such as a lease or utility bill for address changes).
  • Hours vary by day and season, so check the DMV website or call ahead to confirm the office is open before you travel.
  • If you cannot visit in person, you can handle some transactions by mail or through the DMV website without going to the office.

How to Make an Appointment

You must schedule an appointment before visiting the Redwood City DMV. The DMV no longer accepts walk-ins at most locations, including this one. You can make an appointment through the official California DMV website at dmv.ca.gov, by calling 1-800-777-0133, or through the DMV's online appointment system.

When you book, you will select the specific service you need — such as a driver's license renewal, vehicle registration, or address change. The system will show you available time slots for the Redwood City location. Appointments typically fill up several weeks in advance, especially during peak times like the beginning of the month or before holidays. If no slots are open, check back frequently, as cancellations do happen and new slots are released regularly.

You will receive a confirmation number when your appointment is booked. Write this down or take a screenshot. Bring it with you on the day of your appointment, or have it ready if you need to reschedule.

What Documents to Bring

The documents you need depend on your specific transaction, but all visits require proof of identity and proof of residency. Bring your current driver's license, passport, or state ID card. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current address.

For an address change, bring the document that shows your new address — typically a lease, utility bill, or piece of mail from a government agency. For vehicle registration renewal, bring your current registration card and proof of insurance. For a driver's license renewal, bring your current license and any medical documentation if your renewal requires it.

If you are explore for a Real ID compliant driver's license or state ID, bring additional proof of citizenship or legal presence, such as a birth certificate, passport, or immigration documents. The DMV website lists the full set of acceptable documents for each transaction type.

Office Hours and Contact Information

The Redwood City DMV is open Monday through Friday, though specific hours vary. Most DMV offices operate from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but some days may have shorter hours. Saturday hours are not available at this location. Hours can change seasonally or due to staffing, so call 1-800-777-0133 or check dmv.ca.gov before you visit to confirm the office is open.

You can also reach the Redwood City office directly at the local number listed on the DMV website. If you have questions about your appointment or need to reschedule, calling ahead is faster than showing up and waiting. The DMV phone lines are busiest in the morning and early afternoon.

Transactions You Can Handle Without Visiting

Not every DMV transaction requires a trip to Redwood City. You can renew your driver's license by mail if you are not changing your address, your license is not suspended or revoked, and you meet other may be able to access requirements. The DMV will mail you a renewal form, or you can request one from dmv.ca.gov.

Vehicle registration renewal can also be completed online through the DMV website if you have a valid driver's license and your vehicle has no outstanding violations or liens. Address changes for your driver's license or vehicle registration can sometimes be done online as well, depending on your situation. Check the DMV website to see which services are available for your specific needs before scheduling an in-person appointment.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your appointment time. Check in at the front desk with your confirmation number and ID. You will be assigned a number and directed to wait in the lobby until your number is called. Even with an appointment, wait times can range from a few minutes to 30 minutes or more, depending on how busy the office is that day.

When you are called, go to the assigned window. The DMV representative will review your documents, ask questions about your transaction, and process your request. If everything is in order, most transactions are completed on the spot. You will receive a receipt and any new documents (such as a registration card or temporary license) before you leave.

If documents are missing or incomplete, the representative will tell you what you need to bring back. You will have to schedule another appointment to complete the transaction. This is why checking the DMV website for your specific transaction's requirements before you visit saves time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my address at the Redwood City DMV without renewing my license?

Yes. You can update your address on your driver's license or vehicle registration without renewing the license itself. Bring proof of your new address and your current ID. The DMV will issue you a new license card or registration card with the updated address. You can also do this online through the DMV website for some transactions.

What if I miss my appointment?

If you miss your appointment, you will need to schedule a new one. Missed appointments do not result in a fee, but you lose your time slot. Call 1-800-777-0133 or go to dmv.ca.gov to book another appointment as soon as possible.

How long does a typical appointment take?

Most appointments take 15 to 30 minutes from check-in to completion, though this varies based on how busy the office is and the complexity of your transaction. Bring something to read or work on in case you wait longer than expected.

Can I bring someone with me to my appointment?

Yes, you can bring a family member or friend, but only you need to be present for the transaction itself. If you are renewing a minor's license or ID, a parent or guardian must be present.

What if I need to renew my vehicle registration but my insurance has lapsed?

You cannot renew your registration without proof of current insurance. Contact your insurance company to restore your policy or obtain a new one before your DMV appointment. Bring proof of insurance with you when you visit.