What you can and cannot do online for a Louisiana driver's license

You cannot get a Louisiana driver's license entirely online. Louisiana's Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV) requires you to appear in person at a local office to pass the vision test and have your photo taken. However, you can complete some steps online before your visit, and you can renew certain licenses online if you meet specific conditions.

If you already hold a valid Louisiana driver's license and it has not expired more than one year ago, you may renew it online through the OMV website without visiting an office. If your license is expired by more than one year, or if you are explore for your first license, you must go to an OMV office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal is available only if your current license expired less than one year ago and you have no medical or legal restrictions.
  • First-time applicants and people with expired licenses must visit an OMV office in person to take the vision test and have their photo taken.
  • You can check your license status and find your nearest OMV office on the Louisiana OMV website before making a trip.
  • Renewal by mail is also an option if you prefer not to go online or visit an office, though it takes longer than online renewal.

When you can renew online

Online renewal through the Louisiana OMV website works only if all of these are true: your license has not expired more than one year ago, you have no medical conditions that require a doctor's statement, you have no outstanding traffic violations or suspensions, and you are not changing your address. The renewal fee is paid by credit card or debit card during the online process.

The online renewal takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You will need your current license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method. After you complete the online form, the OMV mails your new license to the address on file, usually within 7 to 10 business days.

When you must visit an OMV office in person

You cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than one year. You also cannot renew online if you are changing your address, if you have medical conditions that require documentation, or if you have any active traffic violations or license suspensions. In these cases, you must visit an OMV office.

First-time applicants must always go to an office in person. You will need to bring your birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, proof of Louisiana residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of identity. The office staff will administer the written test, vision test, and take your photo. The process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is.

How to find your nearest OMV office and check wait times

The Louisiana OMV website has a location finder where you can enter your zip code to see all nearby offices, their hours, and current wait times. Some offices are busier than others, and wait times change throughout the day. Visiting early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon often means shorter waits than visiting at lunch or on Friday.

You can also call the OMV at 225-925-6146 to ask about wait times or to schedule an appointment if your local office offers them. Not all offices take appointments, so calling ahead can save you a trip.

Renewing by mail as an alternative to online

If you do not want to renew online or visit an office, you can renew by mail. You will need to fill out the renewal form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail everything to the address listed on the OMV website. Mail renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks because the OMV must receive your form, process it, and mail your new license back to you.

Mail renewal has the same restrictions as online renewal: your license cannot be expired more than one year, you cannot be changing your address, and you cannot have medical or legal restrictions. If any of those explore to you, you must visit an office in person.

What documents to bring if you visit an office

Bring your current license if you have one. If you are renewing and your address has not changed, you may only need your license and payment. If you are changing your address, you will also need proof of your new Louisiana address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

If you are explore for your first license, bring your birth certificate or passport, a document showing your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), proof of Louisiana residency, and a second form of ID such as a school ID or employee badge. The OMV website lists all acceptable documents, so check there before you go to avoid making a second trip.

How long your new license takes to arrive

If you renew online, your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you renew in person at an office, you can get a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 30 days while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail, which usually takes 2 to 3 weeks. If you renew by mail, expect 4 to 6 weeks total.

During the time you are waiting for your new license, you can drive using your old license if it has not expired, or using the temporary paper license if you renewed in person. Once your new license arrives, your old one is no longer valid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online if it expired more than a year ago?

No. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must visit an OMV office in person. You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number, and you will have to take the vision test and written test again.

What if I am changing my address?

You cannot change your address online. You must visit an OMV office and bring proof of your new Louisiana address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days. You can update your address at the same time you renew your license.

Do I need an appointment to visit an OMV office?

Most Louisiana OMV offices do not require appointments, but some do. Call 225-925-6146 or check the OMV website to see if your local office takes appointments. Calling ahead can help you avoid a long wait.

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my new one?

Yes, if you renew in person at an office. The staff will give you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. If you renew online or by mail, you cannot get a temporary license, so plan ahead if you need to drive before your new license arrives.

What payment methods does the OMV accept for online renewal?

The OMV website accepts credit cards and debit cards for online renewal. If you renew by mail, you must send a check or money order. The office does not accept cash for online transactions, but offices may accept cash in person.