OL 856 Form – The OL 856 Form is the official Traffic Violator School (TVS) Instructor Written Test Order Form issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). It allows licensed Traffic Violator Schools to order batches of written examination booklets for TVS instructor licensing and renewal purposes. This one-page PDF form is specifically designed for California TVS operators who need to administer the required written tests covering traffic laws, safe driving practices, vehicle operation, teaching methods, and related regulations.
Whether you’re a new TVS owner preparing instructor applicants or managing ongoing licensing requirements, the OL 856 ensures you receive official DMV-approved test materials directly to your school’s address of record.
Who Needs the OL 856 TVS Instructor Written Test Order Form?
The OL 856 is intended exclusively for licensed Traffic Violator Schools (TVS) in California. School owners or authorized representatives use it to bulk-order written tests for:
- New TVS instructor license applicants who must pass the DMV instructor examination.
- Renewal processes where continuing education may substitute but tests are still required in certain cases.
- Schools conducting in-house testing for instructor candidates.
Important note: Individual instructors or members of the public cannot use this form. Only the TVS school owner listed on the license may complete and sign it. Maximum order quantity is 20 tests per submission.
How to Download the Official OL 856 PDF?
Downloading the OL 856 Form is quick and free from the California DMV website. Here is the direct official link to the most current version:
Download OL 856 TVS Instructor Written Test Order Form PDF
This PDF is hosted directly on the DMV server and matches the version listed on the official Occupational Licensing Forms page. Always download from the DMV website to ensure you have the latest authorized document.
Step-by-Step: How to Fill Out and Submit the OL 856 Form?
Filling out the OL 856 is straightforward. The DMV provides clear instructions on the form itself:
- Print in black ink or type all information legibly.
- Enter the quantity of tests needed (maximum 20).
- Provide the following required fields:
- School Name
- TVS Number
- School Address (must match your official address of record)
- Date License Expires
- City, State, Zip Code
- Area Code / Telephone Number
- Owner’s Name, Title, Date, and Signature
- Mail or fax the completed form to:
Department of Motor Vehicles
Occupational Licensing Unit
P.O. Box 932342, MS L 224
Sacramento, CA 94232-3420
Fax: (916) 229-4729
Do not send the form by email—only mail or fax is accepted.
Processing Time, Delivery, and Important Requirements for OL 856 Orders
Once submitted, allow 4–6 weeks for processing. All orders are delivered by courier service, and someone must be present at the school address to receive and sign for the shipment. The DMV will not leave packages unattended.
Track your order status by contacting the Occupational Licensing Unit using the phone number listed on your TVS license or via the DMV’s general contact channels.
Why the OL 856 Form Matters for TVS Licensing in California?
California requires TVS instructors to demonstrate knowledge through a written examination as part of original licensing or certain renewals. The OL 856 streamlines this process by letting schools order official test materials in bulk rather than sending every candidate to a DMV office. This supports efficient operations for driving schools and ensures compliance with state regulations for traffic violator education.
Related DMV Forms for Traffic Violator Schools
TVS operators often need these additional forms alongside the OL 856:
- OL 740 – Application for Renewal of Traffic Violator School Instructor License
- OL 854E – Notification of Class Schedules
- OL 613 – Outline of Required Topics for DMV-Approved TVS Course
Find the complete list of Occupational Licensing Forms on the official DMV website for the most current versions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the OL 856 Form
Is the OL 856 Form free?
Yes. There is no fee to order the test booklets using this form.
Can I order more than 20 tests at once?
No. The maximum per order is 20 tests. Submit multiple forms if you need more.
Is the 2006 version of OL 856 still current in 2026?
Yes. The California DMV continues to list and distribute the OL 856 (NEW 9/2006) as the active form.
Where can I find more information about TVS instructor requirements?
Visit the DMV’s Traffic Violator School Instructor License page for full details on examinations and continuing education.
Get Your OL 856 Form Today and Stay Complian
Properly ordering TVS instructor written tests is essential for maintaining your California Traffic Violator School license. Download the official OL 856 PDF, complete it accurately, and submit it promptly to avoid delays in your training program. Always use the direct DMV link provided above for the most trusted and up-to-date version.
For the latest updates on TVS licensing, bookmark the California DMV Occupational Licensing section and check back regularly. Safe driving starts with well-trained instructors—make sure your school has the right tools with the OL 856 Form.