DL 691 Form – If your California driving privileges have been suspended due to a financial responsibility violation (such as an uninsured accident), the DL 691 Form offers a way to apply for a Non-Commercial Restricted Driver License. This official California DMV document lets eligible drivers operate a vehicle for essential purposes like work, transporting dependent children to school, or medical treatments during the suspension period.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly what the DL 691 form is, who qualifies, how to complete it step by step, required fees and documents, and where to submit it. Download the latest official DL 691 PDF directly from the California DMV and get back on the road legally and safely.
What Is the DL 691 Form?
The DL 691 Form is officially titled Application for Non-Commercial Restricted Driver License for Financial Responsibility Actions. It is used exclusively by California drivers whose non-commercial driving privileges (Class C or M) are suspended under the Financial Responsibility Law.
The form allows you to request a restricted license (instead of a full suspension) for one year from the suspension date. Restrictions are limited to specific, court- or DMV-approved driving needs under California Vehicle Code (VC) Sections 16072, 16073, and 16077. It does not apply to commercial drivers unless they downgrade their license.
Key purposes include:
- Driving to, from, and during employment (restriction code 52)
- Transporting a dependent minor (under 18) to and from school when no public transportation is available (restriction code 92)
- Driving to medical treatments for yourself or a household family member (restrictions 51/91)
Who Needs the DL 691 Non-Commercial Restricted Driver License?
You need the DL 691 form if:
- Your license was suspended specifically for failing to provide proof of financial responsibility (insurance) after an accident.
- You want limited driving privileges for work, school transport of dependents, or essential medical care.
- You hold a non-commercial Class C or M license (or are downgrading from commercial).
This form is not for DUI-related suspensions, critical-need restrictions (use DS 694 instead), or post-high-school students. It is strictly for financial-responsibility actions.
Eligibility Requirements for the California Restricted Driver License
To qualify for a Non-Commercial Restricted Driver License via DL 691, you must:
- Have a suspension only for financial responsibility reasons (no other concurrent suspensions).
- Maintain a valid California Insurance Proof Certificate (SR 22 or SR 1P) on file with the DMV for four years from the suspension date.
- Pay the $250 penalty fee (unless exempt under VC §16073 for driving an employer-owned vehicle during work hours only).
- Provide proof that alternative transportation is inadequate for the requested restriction.
- Be legally present in California.
After the one-year restriction period ends, you may regain full driving privileges as long as the SR 22/SR 1P remains active.
How to Complete the DL 691 Form Step by Step?
Follow these instructions directly from the official form:
- Applicant Information – Enter your full name, driver license number, address, telephone, and (if applicable) school details.
- Choose Your Restriction:
- Part A – To/from and during employment (code 52).
- Part B – School transportation for dependent minor (code 92) – requires school principal certification that no public or school bus is available.
- Part C – Medical treatment (codes 51/91) – must be completed by a licensed medical practitioner with treatment details and authorization for DMV record access.
- Complete Part D – Applicant’s certification under penalty of perjury.
- Sign and Date the form.
The form is straightforward and designed for clear completion. Incomplete applications will delay processing.
Required Documents and Fees
When submitting your DL 691:
- Completed and signed DL 691 form
- Proof of financial responsibility (SR 22/SR 1P)
- $250 penalty fee (cash, check, or money order; exemptions apply in limited cases)
- Any reissue fee if required
- For Part B: School principal’s signed certification
- For Part C: Licensed practitioner’s section completed
Submit everything together at a local DMV field office. Appointments are strongly recommended.
Where to Submit the DL 691 Application?
Mail or take the completed form and supporting documents to your nearest California DMV field office. Do not send it to the Driver Safety Actions Unit unless instructed. Check the official DMV website for office locations and hours.
Download Official DL 691 PDF – Direct California DMV Link
Get the most current version of the form directly from the source:
Download DL 691 Form PDF (Revised 12/2007 – Current as of 2025 upload)
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2025/05/DL-691-R12-2007-ASB-WWW.pdf
Always use the official DMV link above to ensure you have the correct, up-to-date application.
Important Notes and Legal Information
- Restrictions are valid for one year only from the suspension start date.
- You must keep proof of insurance on file for a total of four years.
- Medical information is confidential and used only to evaluate driving safety.
- The DMV may require a reexamination or additional review.
- Driving outside the approved restrictions can result in further suspension or penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions About DL 691 Form
Can I use the restricted license for any purpose?
No — only for the specific purposes you select and the DMV approves (work, school, or medical).
Is there a fee to file the DL 691?
Yes, a $250 penalty fee applies in most cases.
How long does it take to get approved?
Processing time varies; submit with an appointment and all required documents to speed approval.
Does this replace a full license reinstatement?
No — it is a temporary restricted license during the suspension period.
For the latest official details, always refer to the California DMV website and the DL 691 form itself.
Need help? Visit your local DMV office or check the Financial Responsibility page on dmv.ca.gov for additional guidance on restricted licenses after financial-responsibility suspensions. Stay safe and drive responsibly!