Where to renew and what you need before you start

You can renew your Texas driver license in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Texas DPS website. The method you choose depends on whether your license is expired, how long it has been expired, and whether you need to update your address or other information.

Before you go anywhere or submit anything, gather these documents: your current driver license (or expired license if current one is lost), proof of residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number. If you are renewing online or by mail, you will also need a valid payment method — debit card or credit card.

The renewal fee in Texas is $61 for a four-year license or $97 for an eight-year license. You can pay by card online or by mail, or in cash or card at a DPS office. Military members and their spouses may pay a reduced fee.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the Texas DPS website takes 10 to 15 minutes and is the fastest option if your license is not expired and you have not changed your address.
  • Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and works only if your license expired within the last two years and you do not need to update your address or photo.
  • In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license is expired more than two years, if you need a new photo, or if you are changing your address.
  • You must bring proof of residency (a recent utility bill or bank statement) to any in-person appointment, and you will need to pass a vision test.
  • DPS offices do not take walk-ins; you must schedule an appointment online or by phone at 1-888-357-3639.

Renewing online through the Texas DPS website

Online renewal is the fastest route if your license is current (not expired) and you have not moved. Go to the Texas DPS website, select "Driver License Services," and choose "Renew Your Driver License Online." You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth.

The system will ask whether you want a four-year or eight-year license and will confirm your address on file. If your address is correct, proceed to payment. If you have moved, you cannot finish online — stop here and either mail in your renewal or schedule an in-person appointment instead.

After you pay, you will receive a confirmation number by email. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your confirmation number as a temporary license if you need to drive before the physical card arrives.

Renewing by mail if your license is recent

Mail renewal works only if your license expired within the last two years, you have not changed your address, and you do not need a new photo. read the "process for Texas Driver License" form (DL-44) from the Texas DPS website or request one by calling 1-888-357-3639.

Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it with your current or expired license, proof of residency, and a check or money order for the renewal fee. Mail everything to the address listed on the form — typically the DPS office in Austin. Include a return envelope with postage if you want your old license back.

Processing takes two to three weeks from the date DPS receives your packet. Your new license will arrive by mail. If you do not hear back within four weeks, call 1-888-357-3639 to confirm receipt.

Renewing in person at a DPS office

In-person renewal is required if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need a new photo, if you are changing your address, or if you are renewing a commercial driver license. Schedule an appointment online at the Texas DPS website or by calling 1-888-357-3639. Walk-ins are not accepted.

Bring your expired or current license, proof of residency dated within 90 days, and your Social Security number. You will pass a vision test and have your photo taken. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

You can choose to receive your new license by mail (7 to 10 business days) or pay an extra $5 fee to have it printed on-site and take it home the same day. Payment is cash or card.

What counts as proof of residency

Proof of residency must be an original document (not a copy) dated within 90 days of your appointment or process. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a homeowners insurance policy, or a property tax bill.

The document must show your name and current address. If you recently moved and do not yet have a document in your new name at your new address, bring a lease or rental agreement signed by both you and your landlord, or a notarized letter from someone who lives with you stating that you live there.

If your license is lost or stolen

If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot renew by mail or online. Schedule an in-person appointment at a DPS office and bring proof of residency. Tell the staff member that your license is lost or stolen. You will pay the renewal fee plus a $10 replacement fee for a total of $71 (four-year) or $107 (eight-year).

You can request an on-site printed license for an additional $5 fee. Otherwise, your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Scheduling an appointment and what to expect

All in-person renewals require an appointment. Go to the Texas DPS website and select "Driver License Services," then "Schedule an Appointment." Choose your nearest DPS office and pick an available date and time. You can also call 1-888-357-3639 to schedule by phone.

Arrive 10 minutes early with all required documents. The staff will verify your information, take your photo, conduct a vision test, and process your payment. If you are renewing a commercial license or have medical restrictions, the process may take longer.

If you miss your appointment, you will need to schedule a new one. Cancellations can usually be made online or by phone up to 24 hours before your appointment time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it expired more than two years ago?

Yes, but you must renew in person at a DPS office. You cannot use mail or online renewal. You will need to pass a vision test and have a new photo taken. Schedule an appointment online or by calling 1-888-357-3639.

What if I moved and my license still shows my old address?

You must renew in person or by mail if your license expired within two years. You cannot change your address online. Bring proof of residency at your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within 90 days) to your in-person appointment, or include it with your mail renewal packet.

Do I need to take a written test to renew my license?

No. Renewal does not include a written test. You will pass a vision test at an in-person appointment, but mail and online renewals do not require any testing.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

Online and mail renewals take 7 to 10 business days by mail. In-person renewal takes 7 to 10 business days by mail, or you can pay $5 extra to have it printed on-site and take it home the same day.

Can I use my confirmation number as a temporary license?

Yes, if you renewed online. Your confirmation number is valid as a temporary license until your physical license arrives. For mail and in-person renewals, you can continue using your current license until the new one arrives.