Texas driver's license renewal costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license
The fee you pay depends on which renewal period you choose. A four-year renewal costs $16, and an eight-year renewal costs $32. You pay this fee whether you renew in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, by mail, or online. The fee itself does not change based on how you renew — only the length of time your new license will be valid affects the price.
If you renew online or by mail, you may also encounter a small payment processing fee from the state's payment system, typically a dollar or two. This fee is separate from the license renewal fee itself. When you start the renewal process, the system will show you the total amount due before you complete payment.
Key Takeaways
- A four-year Texas driver's license renewal costs $16, and an eight-year renewal costs $32.
- The renewal fee is the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office.
- Online and mail renewals may include a small payment processing fee in addition to the license fee.
- You cannot renew by mail or online if your license has been expired for more than two years or if you need to update your address or other personal information.
When you can renew online or by mail for the lower processing cost
Renewing online or by mail is usually faster and costs the same as renewing in person, so many people choose these routes to avoid a trip to a DPS office. To renew online, you go to the Texas DPS website, enter your driver's license number and other identifying information, and pay by credit or debit card. The entire process takes about 10 minutes, and your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Mail renewal works similarly: you request a renewal form from the DPS, fill it out, and mail it back with payment. This takes longer — typically two to three weeks — because of mail delivery time on both ends. Both online and mail renewal require that your license is not expired by more than two years and that you do not need to change your address, name, or other personal details on the license itself.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
If your license has been expired for more than two years, or if you need to update your address or other information, you must renew in person at a DPS office. The fee is still $16 for four years or $32 for eight years. You will need to bring your current or expired license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form).
DPS offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and some locations offer Saturday hours. Wait times vary by location and time of day. You can check the DPS website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times before you go. Bring all required documents — if you are missing something, the office will turn you away and you will have to return another day.
What happens if your license has been expired for a long time
If your Texas driver's license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead. A new license costs $32 for an eight-year license (four-year licenses are not available for new applications). You must explore in person at a DPS office and bring the same documents required for in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
The difference between renewal and a new process matters because a new license takes longer to process and may require additional steps, such as a new photo or a vision test. The DPS website explains the difference and can tell you whether your license qualifies as a renewal or requires a new process based on how long it has been expired.
Payment methods and what to expect after you pay
If you renew online, you pay by credit card or debit card on the DPS website. If you renew by mail, you can pay by check or money order — do not send cash. If you renew in person, DPS offices accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Some offices may have limits on which payment methods they accept, so calling ahead can save you a trip if you only have one form of payment available.
After you pay, your new license is mailed to the address on file. Online and mail renewals typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you renew in person, you receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 45 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed. Keep the temporary license with you until your new license arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay the full fee if I renew early?
Yes, you pay the full renewal fee regardless of when you renew. You can renew your Texas license up to one year before it expires, but the fee does not change. Your new license will straightforward have a later expiration date.
What if I lose my license before the new one arrives?
If you lose your license after paying for renewal but before the new license arrives, you can request a duplicate license at a DPS office for a $11 fee. You will need to bring proof of identity and proof of residency. The duplicate will have the same expiration date as the license you ordered.
Can I get a refund if I change my mind after paying?
Refund policies vary depending on how you renewed. If you renewed online, contact the DPS to request a refund before your new license is mailed. If you renewed in person, ask the office staff when ready. Mail-in refunds are more difficult because the check has already been processed.
Is there an extra fee if I want a Real ID compliant license?
No, there is no additional fee for a Real ID compliant license in Texas. All new and renewed driver's licenses issued in Texas are Real ID compliant. You do not choose this option — it is automatic.