The two places to renew or get a driver's license in St. Louis
St. Louis has two locations run by the Missouri Department of Revenue where you can renew your driver's license, get a replacement, or obtain your first license. One is downtown St. Louis and one is in the south city area. Both handle the same services, so you can go to whichever is more convenient for you.
The downtown location is at 301 W. High Street, St. Louis, MO 63102. The south city location is at 4901 Fyler Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63139. Both offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though hours vary slightly between locations. You should check the Missouri Department of Revenue website or call ahead before you go, because hours change seasonally and for holidays.
You do not need an appointment at either location, but wait times can be long during peak hours — typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays. Going early in the morning or late in the afternoon often means a shorter wait.
Key Takeaways
- St. Louis has two driver's license offices: one downtown at 301 W. High Street and one in south city at 4901 Fyler Avenue.
- Both offices handle renewals, replacements, and first-time licenses, and you do not need an appointment.
- Hours vary by location and change for holidays, so check the Missouri Department of Revenue website before you visit.
- Bring your current license or ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or card to speed up the process.
- Wait times are usually shorter early in the morning or after 3 p.m. on weekdays.
What documents to bring
The documents you need depend on whether you are renewing, replacing, or getting a license for the first time. For a renewal, bring your current Missouri driver's license and proof that you live in Missouri — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address works. You also need to provide your Social Security number, either by bringing your card or by signing a form at the office that lets them look it up.
If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, bring the same documents as a renewal plus a police report if your license was stolen. If you are getting your first license, you need proof of identity (a passport or birth certificate), proof of residency, and your Social Security number. You will also take a written test and a driving test, so bring your learner's permit if you have one.
Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your address on your ID does not match your current address, bring two pieces of mail showing your new address, or the office may not accept your proof of residency.
What happens during your visit
When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. You will wait until your number is called, then go to a window where staff will review your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee. For renewals, the fee is currently $24.50 for a four-year license or $43 for an eight-year license, though fees can change. Ask the staff member what the current fee is when you check in.
If you are getting your first license or replacing one after it expired more than a certain time ago, you will need to pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs. The test is given at the office on a computer, and you can retake it the same day if you do not pass. You will also need to pass a driving test, which is scheduled for a separate appointment at a testing location.
Your new license is usually mailed to you within one to two weeks. The office will give you a temporary paper license you can use while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.
Parking and accessibility
The downtown office at 301 W. High Street has limited street parking nearby, and a parking garage is located one block away on Olive Street. The south city office at 4901 Fyler Avenue has a parking lot on site. Both offices are wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking spaces and elevators or ramps to the main entrance.
If you have mobility issues or other accessibility needs, call the office ahead of time to let staff know you are coming. They may be able to prioritize your visit or arrange for information.
Renewing by mail or online
If your license is not expired and you have not had any violations or address changes, you may be able to renew by mail instead of visiting an office. The Missouri Department of Revenue sends renewal notices to your address about 60 days before your license expires. The notice includes instructions for mailing in your renewal or renewing online through the state website.
Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access — you can renew in minutes from home, and your new license is mailed within one to two weeks. Mail renewal takes longer because the state has to process your paperwork, so allow three to four weeks from the time you mail your renewal until your new license arrives.
You are not may be able to access for mail or online renewal if your license has expired, if you have had a traffic violation or suspension, or if you have changed your address. In those cases, you must visit an office in person.
What to do if you cannot visit during business hours
Both St. Louis offices are open Monday through Friday only, which can be difficult if you work standard hours. If you cannot visit during the week, your options are limited. Some counties in Missouri have satellite offices with extended hours, but St. Louis city does not currently have one.
If you need your license urgently and cannot take time off work, consider visiting early in the morning before work or during your lunch break. The south city location often has shorter waits than downtown, so that may be worth trying first. If you are renewing and may be able to access for mail or online renewal, that is the easiest option and requires no office visit at all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than a year?
No, you cannot renew by mail or online if your license is expired. You must visit an office in person, and you will need to pass a written test. If it has been more than a few years, you may also need to pass a driving test. Bring all your documents and plan for a longer visit.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You can still get a driver's license. Bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a document from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for a number. The office staff can help you figure out what documents work in your situation.
How long does it take to get a new license after I visit the office?
Your new license is mailed to you within one to two weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use to drive while you wait for the plastic card. If you need your license faster, ask the staff whether expedited mailing is available and what it costs.
Do I need to take the written test again if I am just renewing?
No, if your license is current and not expired, you do not take a test for a renewal. You only take a test if your license has been expired for a long time or if you are getting your first license.
What if I moved out of Missouri but still have a Missouri license?
You should get a license from your new state. If you still have a Missouri address on file, you can renew by mail or online if your license is not expired. If you have moved and your address has changed, you must visit an office in person and bring proof of your new address.