California requires you to renew your driver's license every five years

Your California driver's license expires five years from the date it was issued. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card in the bottom right corner. You do not have to wait until that date to renew — you can renew up to 60 days before expiration, which many people do to avoid the rush or to get a Real ID-compliant card.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it, but the process may take longer and you cannot legally drive until the new one arrives. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) recommends renewing before the expiration date to avoid this gap.

Key Takeaways

  • Your California driver's license expires exactly five years from the date it was issued, with the expiration date printed on the front of your card.
  • You can renew your license up to 60 days before it expires, which is the fastest way to avoid driving with an expired card.
  • Renewal can be done online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV office, depending on your situation.
  • If you are over 70 years old, you must renew in person at a DMV office rather than online or by mail.

When your license is about to expire

The DMV sends renewal reminders by mail about 60 days before your license expires. This reminder includes a renewal code you can use if you choose to renew online. Even if you do not receive a reminder, you can check your expiration date anytime by logging into your DMV account online or by calling the DMV.

Starting 60 days before expiration, you have three renewal options: online through the DMV website, by mail using the renewal form sent with your reminder, or in person at a DMV office. Online renewal is the fastest — you can complete it in minutes and your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Renewing online versus in person

Online renewal through the DMV website works if your license is not expired, you have not changed your name or address since your last renewal, your vision is still good enough to pass the test, and you are under 70 years old. You will need your driver's license number, the renewal code from your reminder notice, and a valid payment method. The fee is $38 for a five-year renewal.

If any of those conditions do not explore — for example, if you changed your address, need a new photo, or are 70 or older — you must renew in person at a DMV office. In-person renewal takes longer because you will need to pass a vision test and provide proof of your current address. Bring your current driver's license, proof of California residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment.

What happens if you let your license expire

Driving with an expired California driver's license is illegal, even if you only expired yesterday. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you can face a fine. However, if your license expired within the last six months and you can show proof that you have renewed it, the fine may be reduced or dismissed.

If your license has been expired for more than six months, you may need to take the written test and vision test again when you renew, even if you renew online. The DMV will tell you what is required when you start the renewal process.

Real ID compliance and renewal timing

California's Real ID-compliant driver's license looks similar to a standard license but has a gold star in the top right corner. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID-compliant license to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If your current license does not have the gold star, you can request a Real ID when you renew.

Getting a Real ID requires an in-person visit to a DMV office because you must provide original documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and California residency. The fee is the same as a standard renewal ($38 for five years). If you want to switch to Real ID before your license expires, you can renew early and request the Real ID version at that time.

Keeping track of your expiration date

The easiest way to remember when to renew is to check the expiration date on your license right now and mark it on your calendar. You can also create a reminder in your phone for 60 days before that date. If you lose track, you can always log into your DMV online account to see your expiration date, or call the DMV customer service line.

Some people renew as soon as they become may be able to access (60 days before expiration) to avoid the possibility of forgetting. Others wait until they receive the renewal reminder in the mail. Either approach works — the key is not to let it expire without renewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can renew an expired license at any time. However, if it has been expired for more than six months, the DMV may require you to retake the written test and vision test, even if you renew online. You will find out what is required when you start the renewal process on the DMV website.

Do I have to renew in person if I want a Real ID?

Yes. Real ID requires you to visit a DMV office in person and bring original documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and California residency. You cannot get a Real ID through online or mail renewal.

What if I move out of California before my license expires?

Once you move to another state, you should get a driver's license from that state. You do not need to renew your California license. If you move back to California later, you can renew your old license or explore for a new one.

How much does it cost to renew?

A standard five-year renewal costs $38. A Real ID-compliant renewal also costs $38. Payment can be made by credit card, debit card, or electronic check during online renewal, or by check or money order if you renew by mail.