There are various reasons you might have to retake the written test. Are you 70 years old or older? All drivers 70 years of age and older have to renew in person. A history of citations can also trigger the requirement. New residents must take the written exam to obtain a California license but do not take the driving test if an out of state license is still valid. Update: I can't say for sure, but it sounds like it is due to prior traffic tickets. If they weren't taken care of, you wouldn't be able to renew without paying them. If they have been paid, the DMV can still require you to take the test in order to renew.
No I'm in my late 30s and yes I have had a ticket or two but they all been taken care of
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