California driver's license renewal costs $38 if you renew in person at the DMV, or $32 if you renew online through the DMV website

The difference comes down to how you renew. Online renewal is cheaper because you skip the in-person visit and the DMV does not process a new photo. In-person renewal at a DMV office includes a new photograph, which adds $6 to your fee. Both routes renew your license for the same five-year term.

You will also pay a $1.50 service charge on top of either fee if you pay by credit card or debit card at the DMV office. Online payment through the DMV website does not include this extra charge. If you mail in your renewal, the cost is $38, the same as in-person renewal.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the DMV website costs $32 and takes about two weeks to receive your new license by mail.
  • In-person renewal at a DMV office costs $38 and includes a new photograph taken on the spot.
  • You can only renew online if your license is not expired and you have not renewed online in the past two times you renewed your license.
  • Mailed renewal costs $38 and takes longer than either online or in-person options.
  • Add $1.50 to the in-person fee if you pay with a card instead of cash or check.

When you can renew online versus in person

Not every driver can use the online renewal route. You are only allowed to renew online if your current license is not expired and you have not renewed online for your last two renewals. This rule exists because California requires you to appear in person for a new photo every third renewal cycle.

If your license is already expired, you must renew in person or by mail. If you have renewed online twice in a row, your next renewal must be in person. The DMV website will tell you which method you are allowed to use when you log in to check your renewal status.

What happens when you renew online

Online renewal through the DMV website takes about two weeks from the time you submit your payment. You will receive your new license by mail at the address on file with the DMV. You do not need to upload a photo or provide new documents — the DMV uses your existing photo and information from your current license.

Before you start an online renewal, have your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number ready. You will also need to confirm your address and choose whether to keep it the same or update it. Once you submit payment, you cannot cancel the transaction, so double-check your information before you finish.

What happens when you renew in person

In-person renewal at a DMV office takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is. You will have a new photo taken, and you can request a different look than your current license photo. Bring your current license and proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease.

You can walk in without an appointment at most DMV offices, but you may wait longer during peak hours. Many DMV offices now allow you to make an appointment online through the DMV website, which can cut your wait time significantly. You will receive your new license in the mail within two to three weeks after your visit.

Mailed renewal and other payment methods

You can also renew by mail by sending a completed form DL 44 or DL 43 (depending on whether you are renewing or updating information) along with your current license and a check or money order for $38. Mail your packet to the DMV address listed on the form. Mailed renewals take four to six weeks to process and arrive.

If you renew in person at a DMV office, you can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Paying with a card adds a $1.50 service charge. Online renewal accepts debit cards and credit cards with no extra fee. Mailed renewal requires a check or money order.

What your renewal fee covers

Your $32 or $38 renewal fee covers the cost of producing and mailing your new license to you. It does not cover any additional services, such as correcting your name, address, or other information on your license. If you need to make changes beyond a straightforward address update, you may need to visit a DMV office in person and pay an additional fee.

The fee also does not cover any outstanding traffic fines, parking tickets, or other DMV-related debts. If you owe money to the DMV, you must pay that separately before you can renew your license. The DMV will tell you if you have any outstanding balance when you attempt to renew.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than a year?

If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must take a written test and a driving test in addition to renewing. If it has been expired for one to five years, you can renew without retesting, but you must do so in person at a DMV office. You cannot use online or mail renewal for an expired license.

Do I have to pay the renewal fee again if I am also updating my address?

No. Updating your address during renewal is included in the renewal fee. You do not pay extra for address changes. If you want to change other information, such as your name or gender marker, you may need to visit a DMV office and pay an additional fee depending on the change.

What if I want to renew early before my license expires?

You can renew your license up to 60 days before it expires. The new license will be valid for five years from the expiration date of your current license, not from the date you renew. This means renewing early does not give you extra time on your license.

Is there a discount for seniors or people with disabilities?

California does not offer a reduced renewal fee for seniors or people with disabilities. The renewal cost is the same for all drivers. However, some DMV offices offer priority service for seniors and people with disabilities, which may reduce your wait time during an in-person visit.