Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your Texas driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, by mail, or online through the DPS website — but not all renewal types work through every method. The fastest route is online if you're renewing a standard license and your current license is not expired more than two years. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a DPS office.

Before you start, gather these documents: your current Texas driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days), and proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). If you've changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $25 for a five-year license if your current license expired less than two years ago.
  • In-person renewal at a DPS office takes 30 minutes to an hour and requires proof of residency, Social Security number, and your current license.
  • Mail renewal is available only if you're renewing a standard license and your current license is not expired more than two years.
  • Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days for online or mail renewal, or you can pick it up when ready at the office if you renew in person.

Renewing online through the DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the online renewal option. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record and personal history.

Once you pass the identity check, you'll upload a new photo or use the photo from your current license. You can take the photo yourself using your phone or computer — it must show your face clearly against a plain background, and you cannot wear sunglasses or a hat. After you review your information and pay the $25 fee with a debit or credit card, you're done. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Online renewal is not available if your license has been suspended, revoked, or cancelled, or if you need to change your address, name, or organ donor status. In those cases, you must renew in person.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is available only for standard license renewals when your current license is not expired more than two years. read the DL-44 form from the Texas DPS website, fill it out completely, and sign it. Include a copy of your proof of residency and proof of Social Security number — do not send originals.

Mail your completed form, copies of your documents, and a check or money order for $25 to the address listed on the DPS website. Include a new photo or request that DPS use the photo from your current license. Mail renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks from the date DPS receives your packet, so send it well before your license expires. You cannot track the status of a mail renewal process, so plan accordingly.

Renewing in person at a DPS office

Visit any DPS office with your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. Bring originals, not copies — the office will not accept photocopies. If you've changed your name, bring the certified document showing the change as well.

When you arrive, take a number and wait to be called. The clerk will verify your documents, take a new photo, and ask you to review your information on screen. You'll pay $25 for a five-year license or $50 for an eight-year license. Your new license prints on the spot, and you can leave with it when ready. The whole process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

DPS offices are busiest on weekday mornings and Saturdays. If you want to avoid a long wait, go on a weekday afternoon or call ahead to ask which office has the shortest line. Some DPS offices now offer online appointment scheduling through their website.

What happens if your license is expired

If your license expired less than two years ago, you can renew it using any of the three methods above. If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew — you must explore for a new license in person at a DPS office. explore for a new license requires a written test, a driving test, and a vision test, and costs more than renewal.

If your license expired while you were out of state or out of the country, you may be able to renew by mail or online even if it has been more than two years. Contact the DPS to explain your situation before you start the renewal process.

Cost and how long it takes

A five-year license costs $25 whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. An eight-year license costs $50 and is available only for in-person renewal. If you renew online or by mail, your new license arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you renew in person, you leave with your new license the same day.

If you need your license before the standard arrival time, you cannot expedite a mail or online renewal. Your only option is to renew in person at a DPS office and take the license with you when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it's suspended or revoked?

No. You must contact DPS to find out why your license is suspended or revoked and what you need to do to restore it before you can renew. Renewing while your license is under suspension or revocation will not change that status.

What if I've moved to a different address since my last license?

If you're renewing online or by mail, you cannot change your address during renewal — you must renew in person at a DPS office. Bring your current license, proof of your new residency, and proof of Social Security number. The clerk will update your address and issue your new license.

Do I need a new photo every time I renew?

No. When you renew online or by mail, you can ask DPS to use the photo from your current license. If you renew in person, the clerk will ask whether you want a new photo or want to keep your current one. You can keep the same photo for multiple renewals if you choose.

What if I lose my license before the new one arrives?

If you renewed by mail or online and your new license hasn't arrived yet, go to a DPS office with your old license and proof of residency. The clerk can print a temporary paper license that's valid for 45 days while you wait for your new one to arrive by mail.

Can I renew my license if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes, if you have a valid visa, work permit, or other immigration document. You'll need to renew in person at a DPS office and bring your current license, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and your immigration document. The process is the same as for citizens.