OL 804 Form – The OL 804 form is the official California DMV document titled Application for Authorization to Issue Student License. It allows licensed driving schools (but not independent driving instructors) to apply for permission to issue student licenses—temporary learner permits given to enrolled students during behind-the-wheel training.
This form is part of the DMV’s Occupational Licensing program, which regulates businesses that provide driver training services. Without DMV authorization via the OL 804, a driving school cannot legally issue student licenses to its students.
Who Needs to Submit the OL 804 Form?
Only California-licensed driving schools (excluding independent instructors) must submit the OL 804 form. The applicant must be:
- The driving school owner, or
- An employee specifically designated by the owner to operate the school.
Independent driving instructors do not use this form; they follow separate licensing rules.
Why Driving Schools Need Authorization to Issue Student Licenses
California law requires every driving school that issues student licenses to be pre-authorized by the DMV. Student licenses allow supervised practice driving and must meet strict vision-screening standards under Title 13, California Code of Regulations, Section 344.20(a)(2)(A). Authorization ensures:
- Proper vision screening equipment is available
- Trained staff perform screenings
- Only authorized employees sign the licenses
- DMV can track and regulate the process for public safety
Key Requirements Before Submitting OL 804
Before completing the form, your driving school must have:
- A valid DMV occupational license
- At least one vision screening device (Snellen Chart, Orthorater, Standard Portable, or approved equivalent)
- At least one designated employee trained and authorized to conduct vision screenings and sign student licenses
- A book of student licenses (purchased separately from DMV)
How to Fill Out the OL 804 Form: Step-by-Step Guide?
The form is divided into three clear parts. Here is exactly how to complete it based on the official instructions:
Part A – Driving School Information
Enter the school’s legal name, DMV school number, street address, city, state, and ZIP code.
Indicate the vision screening device you will use by checking the correct box:
- Snellen Chart
- Orthorater (specify type)
- Standard Portable
- Other (describe the device)
Part B – Authorized Employees
List every employee authorized to sign student licenses. Include:
- Full name
- Signature
- Occupational license number
At least one employee must be able to administer the eye exam.
Part C – Certification
The owner or designated operator must sign and date the form under penalty of perjury. You certify that:
- All information is true and correct
- You will immediately notify DMV if any authorized employee leaves
- Every authorized employee holds a valid occupational license This application replaces any previous authorization list.
The completed OL 804 must be mailed or submitted according to current DMV instructions for Occupational Licensing.
Fees for OL 804 Authorization
- The application itself has no separate filing fee listed on the form.
- However, you must purchase a book of 25 student licenses for $50 (fees are subject to change—confirm on the official DMV site). Additional books can be ordered using related forms such as OL 400.
Where to Download the Official OL 804 PDF?
You can download the most current version of the form directly from the California DMV here:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2025/05/OL-804-R9-2007-ASB-WWW.pdf
This is the exact Revision 9/2007 (R9) form currently used by the DMV. Always use the official PDF from dmv.ca.gov to ensure compliance.
You can also find it listed under Occupational Licensing Forms on the DMV website.
Important Instructions and Warnings
- Vision must be screened for distance vision only according to DMV standards.
- This form supersedes any prior authorization list.
- You must notify the DMV immediately in writing if an authorized employee is terminated.
- Certification is made under penalty of perjury under California law.
- The form is for driving schools only—independent instructors cannot use it.
Failure to maintain authorization or follow these rules can result in suspension of your school’s ability to issue student licenses.
Benefits of Getting Approved with OL 804
Once authorized:
- Your school can legally issue official DMV student licenses to students
- Students can begin supervised behind-the-wheel training immediately
- You gain a competitive advantage by offering a complete driver education package
- You stay fully compliant with California Vehicle Code and DMV regulations
Frequently Asked Questions About the OL 804 Form
Q: Can independent driving instructors use OL 804?
A: No. This form is only for licensed driving schools.
Q: How long is the authorization valid?
A: Authorization remains valid until you notify DMV of changes or the school license expires/revokes.
Q: Do I need to renew the OL 804 form?
A: You only need to submit a new form if your authorized employees change or you update school information.
Q: Where do I mail the completed OL 804?
A: Follow the current mailing address listed on the form or the Occupational Licensing section of dmv.ca.gov (typically Sacramento address).
Get Started with Your OL 804 Application Today
If you own or operate a California driving school and want to issue student licenses legally, the OL 804 form is your first step. Download it now from the official DMV link provided above, gather your vision screening device details and employee information, and submit your application to start issuing student licenses quickly and compliantly.
For the latest updates, always refer to the California DMV Occupational Licensing page or contact the DMV directly. Staying current with OL 804 requirements helps your driving school run smoothly and keeps your students safe on California roads.