Anyone teaching at a California traffic violator school needs an instructor license. It is the lightest of the three TVS licenses: one application package, a written exam, and $67 in fees.
The short version: you need a high school diploma or equivalent, Live Scan fingerprinting, a passing score on the written TVS Instructor Examination (three attempts), and about 120 days of patience for the DMV’s investigation.
Step 1: Gather your documents
- TVS Instructor Application Checklist (OL 710A), your master reference
- Application for a Traffic Violator School Operator and Instructor Permit (OL 710)
- Personal History Questionnaire (OL 29B), unless already submitted with an owner application
- Live Scan fingerprint request (DMV 8016)
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Letters of employment acknowledgment from each school you will teach for
Step 2: Submit and test
Schedule an appointment at a DMV inspector’s office, present your documents and fees, and take the written exam. It covers traffic laws, safe driving practices, vehicle operation, and teaching methods, and you get three attempts. Already passed the TVS Operator Examination? You are exempt from the instructor exam.
The DMV’s investigation can take up to 120 days, and your application stays valid for one year.
Fees at a glance
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application or reinstatement | $50 |
| Family support program | $1 |
| Written exam | $16 |
Duplicate license $15, transfer $25 if ever needed.
Instructor vs. operator: which do you need?
- Instructor teaches the course.
- Operator manages the school and must complete an 8 hour operator education program before applying.
- An operator who teaches in a classroom needs both.
One person can hold owner, operator, and instructor licenses at once, and combined owner applications pay only the owner fee. If the operator role is in your plans, that 8 hour course is the first domino.
Start the 8 Hour Operator Course free »
Frequently asked questions
How long is the license valid?
Three years, unlike the one year owner and operator licenses. Renewal takes either an 18 hour continuing education program or passing the exam again; see our instructor renewal guide.
Do I need teaching experience?
No. The exam tests knowledge, and the employment acknowledgment letters establish where you will teach.
Can I teach at multiple schools?
Yes, with an acknowledgment letter from each.
