The fastest way to renew in Texas
You can renew your Texas driver's license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website if you meet a few conditions: your license must not be expired by more than two years, you must have a valid Social Security number on file, and you cannot have any medical or vision restrictions that changed since your last renewal. If you fit these requirements, the online process takes about 10 minutes and costs $16 for a four-year renewal or $32 for an eight-year renewal. Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
If you cannot renew online — because your license is too old, your address changed, or you need to update your photo — you will need to visit a DPS office in person. Texas has driver license offices in most counties. You can find your nearest office and check wait times on the DPS website before you go. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes once you are called, though wait times vary widely by location and time of day.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the DPS website works only if your license expired within the last two years and you have no medical restrictions.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license is more than two years expired, your address changed, or you need a new photo.
- Bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number.
- Renewal fees are $16 for four years or $32 for eight years, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at DPS offices.
What documents you need for in-person renewal
Bring your current Texas driver's license or ID card. If your license is lost or stolen, bring a document that shows your name and date of birth, such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID.
You also need proof that you live in Texas. The DPS accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your current address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 90 days. If you recently moved and do not have a document yet, a signed letter from your landlord or a recent lease can work.
Bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you do not, bring another document with your Social Security number, such as a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form. The DPS needs to verify your number is correct in their system.
Steps for renewing online
Go to the Texas DPS website and select "Renew Your Driver License" under the Online Services section. You will 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 confirm your address and choose your renewal term — four years or eight years.
Next, you will upload a new photo or use the photo from your current license. If you upload a new photo, it must be a clear headshot taken against a plain background, taken within the last six months. You can take it yourself with a phone camera. The system will tell you if the photo does not meet requirements.
Review your information for accuracy, then pay the renewal fee online using a debit or credit card. You will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, and you can track its status on the DPS website using your confirmation number.
Steps for renewing in person at a DPS office
Visit your local DPS driver license office with all required documents. You can check office hours and current wait times on the DPS website before you go. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, though some have Saturday hours. Arrive early if possible — wait times are usually shortest in the morning and on weekday afternoons.
When you arrive, take a number or check in at the kiosk, depending on the office setup. A staff member will call you when it is your turn. Bring all your documents to the window. The staff member will verify your information, take a new photo (unless you brought an acceptable one), and process your payment.
You will receive a temporary paper license that is valid for 45 days while your permanent license is being printed and mailed. Your new license should arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If it does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DPS to check the status.
When you need to renew in person instead of online
Your license expired more than two years ago. Online renewal only works if your license has been expired for 24 months or less. If it has been longer, you must go to a DPS office.
Your address changed and you did not update it before your license expired. If you moved, you cannot renew online — you must visit an office in person so staff can verify your new address with your proof of residency document.
You want a new photo on your license. Online renewal lets you keep your current photo or upload a new one, but if you want DPS to take a fresh photo, you must come in person. This is also required if your current photo is damaged or does not meet standards.
Your medical or vision restrictions changed. If you have a condition that affects your driving — such as corrective lenses required or seizure disorder — you cannot renew online. A DPS examiner must review your situation in person.
Fees and payment methods
A four-year renewal costs $16. An eight-year renewal costs $32. These are the standard fees as of 2024, though fees can change. If you renew online, you pay by debit or credit card only. At a DPS office, you can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
If you are 85 years old or older, your renewal is free. Military members on active duty can renew for free as well. Bring proof of military status (military ID or discharge papers) to a DPS office to receive the free renewal.
What to do if your license is suspended or revoked
You cannot renew your license if it is suspended or revoked. You must first contact the DPS or the court that issued the suspension to find out why and what steps you need to take to restore it. Suspensions can result from unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or accumulating too many points. Revocations are more serious and usually result from DWI convictions or repeated violations.
Once your suspension or revocation is lifted, you can renew normally. If you are unsure of your license status, call the DPS at 1-888-589-6900 or check online using your license number and date of birth on the DPS website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it is already expired?
Yes. You can renew online if it expired within the last two years. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a DPS office. You can drive on an expired license while your renewal is being processed, as long as you have your temporary paper license or a confirmation of your online renewal.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
Online renewals take 7 to 10 business days for your new license to arrive by mail. In-person renewals also take 7 to 10 business days for the permanent license, but you receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days when ready after your visit.
What if I moved to a different state?
You cannot renew a Texas license if you no longer live in Texas. You will need to get a driver's license from your new state. However, if you moved within Texas, you can renew online as long as your license is not more than two years expired — just make sure your new address is correct in the system.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
No. You must renew in person or online yourself. A family member or representative cannot renew on your behalf, even with written permission. The only exception is if you have a disability that prevents you from visiting an office — contact your local DPS office to discuss options.
What if my name changed since my last renewal?
You cannot renew online if your name changed. You must visit a DPS office in person and bring a document that shows your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The staff member will update your name in the system during your visit.