DL 694 Form – If you hold or are applying for a California Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), the DL 694 Form (California Commercial Driver License Self-Certification Form) is a mandatory federal and state requirement. This short, one-page PDF lets the California DMV know exactly what type of commercial driving you perform or expect to perform. Submitting it correctly keeps your CDL valid and prevents your status from switching to “not-certified,” which can result in losing your commercial driving privileges.
What Is the DL 694 Form?
The DL 694 Form is the official California DMV document titled “California Commercial Driver License Self-Certification Form.” It fulfills the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation (49 CFR §383.71) that requires every CDL holder to declare their commercial operation type.
The form has two simple sections:
- Section 1 – Your personal information and one self-certification category (you may select only one).
- Section 2 – Your signature and date.
The current version is DL 694 (R6 – 6/2016), uploaded to the DMV website in October 2024 and remains the active form.
Why Do California CDL Drivers Need to Submit DL 694?
Federal law requires all CDL holders to self-certify whether their driving is:
- Interstate or intrastate, and
- Excepted or non-excepted from federal medical qualification rules.
Your certification determines whether the DMV must keep a current Medical Examiner’s Certificate on file. Drivers in Non-Excepted categories (NI or NA) must maintain “certified” medical status. If your medical certificate expires and you do not update it, the DMV changes your status to “not-certified” and you risk losing your CDL.
The Four Self-Certification Categories on DL 694
Choose only one category. Here’s what each means (straight from the official form):
| Category | Full Name | When to Choose It | Medical Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| NI | Non-Excepted Interstate | You operate or expect to operate across state lines and must meet full federal qualifications (most common choice) | Yes – Medical cert required |
| NA | Non-Excepted Intrastate | You drive only within California; cargo originates and ends in CA | Yes – Medical cert required; CDL card will show “Intrastate Only” restriction (40/K) |
| EI | Excepted Interstate | You operate interstate but are exempt from federal qualification rules | No federal medical cert required |
| EA | Excepted Intrastate | You operate only inside California and qualify for an exemption | No federal medical cert required |
Pro tip from the DMV: If you meet federal qualifications and there is any chance you might drive interstate, strongly consider certifying NI. It gives you the most flexibility.
Who Must Complete the DL 694 Form?
- Anyone applying for a new California CDL
- Current CDL holders who need to change or update their self-certification status
- Drivers renewing or correcting their CDL record
Exempt drivers (certain military, fire, or emergency vehicles) do not need a CDL and therefore skip this form.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out the DL 694 PDF?
- Download the official form (link below).
- Enter your: Driver License Number, Birthdate, Full Name, and Complete Address.
- Check only one box in Section 1 (NI, NA, EI, or EA).
- Sign and date Section 2.
- Do not attach your Medical Examiner’s Certificate unless the DMV specifically asks for it later.
False information is a misdemeanor under California Vehicle Code §20.
Download the Official DL 694 Form PDF
Direct download link (official DMV version, October 2024 upload):
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2024/10/DL-694-R6-2016-ASB-WWW.pdf
Always use this link or the form hosted on dmv.ca.gov to ensure you have the latest version.
How to Submit the Completed DL 694 Form?
You have two easy options:
- Mail it to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
CDL Unit, G204
P.O. Box 944278
Sacramento, CA 94244-2780 - Take it in person to any California DMV field office.
If you also need a corrected CDL card showing the new restriction, visit a DMV office and pay the duplicate card fee.
Common Questions About DL 694 Self-Certification
How often do I need to submit a new DL 694?
Only when your operation type changes or the DMV requests an update.
Do I need to attach my medical card?
No. The DMV already has (or will request) your Medical Examiner’s Certificate separately for non-excepted categories.
What happens if I don’t submit it?
Your CDL may be downgraded or canceled if you are required to maintain certified medical status.
Is there a fee?
The form itself is free. A corrected CDL card has a standard duplicate fee.
Stay Compliant in 2026 and Beyond
The DL 694 requirements have remained stable since the 2016 revision, and the form uploaded in October 2024 is still current. Keep a copy of your signed form and monitor your medical certificate expiration date closely—especially if you certified NI or NA.
For the most up-to-date CDL information, always refer to the official California DMV Commercial Driver License page: dmv.ca.gov CDL Classes & Certifications.
Need the form right now?
→ Download DL 694 PDF Here
Submit it today and keep your California CDL active and compliant. Safe driving!