Renew online, by mail, or in person depending on your situation
You can renew your California driver's license through the DMV website, by mail, or at a DMV office. The online option is fastest if you meet the requirements — you must have a valid license, be between 18 and 70 years old, and not need to update your address or medical information. If you don't meet those conditions, you'll renew by mail or in person instead.
Your license is valid for five years from the date it was issued. The DMV sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration, but you don't have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to six months before your license expires.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the DMV website takes about 10 minutes and costs $39 if you're renewing a five-year license.
- You must be 18 to 70 years old, have a valid license, and not need to change your address or medical information to renew online.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send in your current license, a completed form, and payment.
- In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if you're over 70, need a new photo, or have changed your address or medical status.
- Your license remains valid for 60 days after expiration if you've started the renewal process, but you cannot legally drive with an expired license.
Renew online through the DMV website
Go to dmv.ca.gov and click "Renew Your Driver License" under the Licenses and Permits section. You'll need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your information against DMV records.
If the system confirms you're may be able to access, you'll answer questions about any changes to your medical history or driving record. You'll review your current address and name — if either has changed, you cannot complete the online renewal and must go to a DMV office instead. Once you confirm everything is correct, you'll pay the renewal fee by debit card or credit card.
After you submit payment, the DMV will mail your new license to the address on file. The new license typically arrives within 10 to 14 business days. Your current license remains valid during this time, so you can continue driving legally.
Renew by mail if you prefer not to go online
Request a renewal process by calling the DMV at 1-800-777-0133, or read and print the form DL 44 from dmv.ca.gov. Fill out the form completely, including your current license number and signature. You must sign the form in blue or black ink — photocopied or digital signatures are not accepted.
Mail your completed form, your current driver's license, and a check or money order for $39 to the DMV address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope with postage if you want the DMV to mail your old license back to you; otherwise, the DMV will destroy it.
Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your envelope. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address on your process. During this time, your current license remains valid for driving.
Renew in person at a DMV office if you're over 70 or need a new photo
You must visit a DMV office in person if you're 71 or older, if you want a new photo on your license, or if you've changed your address or medical information since your last renewal. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your current address (a recent utility bill or bank statement works), and payment of $39.
Make an appointment through dmv.ca.gov or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Walk-ins are accepted at some offices, but appointment times are shorter and more predictable. Bring all documents with you — the DMV will not accept incomplete applications and you'll have to return another day.
The DMV will take a new photo, verify your information, and process your renewal on the spot. You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 60 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed. Your new license arrives within 10 to 14 business days.
What happens if your license has already expired
You cannot legally drive with an expired license, even if you've started the renewal process. However, if you've submitted your renewal process online, by mail, or in person, your license remains valid for 60 days after the expiration date printed on it. This grace period gives the DMV time to process and mail your new license.
If your license expired more than 60 days ago and you have not yet renewed, you'll need to explore for a new license rather than renew. This requires an in-person visit to a DMV office, a written test, and a driving test. Contact the DMV to schedule an appointment.
Understand the renewal fee and what it covers
The standard renewal fee for a five-year driver's license is $39. This fee covers the cost of producing and mailing your new license. If you renew online or by mail, you pay this amount once. If you renew in person, you pay at the DMV office before you leave.
Some people may have access to for reduced or waived fees. If you're a low-income California resident, you may be able to get a fee waiver through the DMV's financial hardship program. Call 1-800-777-0133 to ask about your options, or ask at a DMV office when you renew in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I've moved to a different state?
No. You must renew your California license while you still live in California. If you've moved out of state, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state instead. Contact your new state's DMV for their requirements.
What if I lost my current license and need to renew?
You cannot renew online or by mail if you don't have your current license. You'll need to visit a DMV office in person and request a replacement license. Bring proof of identity and your Social Security number. The DMV will issue a new license on the spot.
Do I need to take a driving test to renew?
No. Renewal does not require a written test or driving test. You only answer questions about medical history and changes to your record. If your license has been expired for more than 60 days, you'll need to take both tests when you reapply.
How long is my temporary paper license valid?
Your temporary paper license is valid for 60 days from the date you receive it at a DMV office. Your permanent license should arrive by mail before this period ends. If it doesn't, contact the DMV to check the status of your renewal.
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew up to six months before your license expires. This is useful if you're planning to travel or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. The new license will have a new expiration date five years from the date you renew.