Where to renew and what you'll need
In Missouri, you can renew your driver's license at any Missouri Department of Revenue office or through the mail, depending on your situation. The easiest route for most people is the mail, which takes about two weeks. If you need your license faster or your renewal doesn't may have access to for mail renewal, you'll visit a local office in person.
Before you start, gather these documents: your current Missouri driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days), and proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Your license is valid for six or eight years depending on your age when you renew. Missouri does not charge different renewal fees based on how long your license will be valid, so the cost is the same regardless.
Key Takeaways
- Mail renewal takes about two weeks and works if your license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions or address changes that require a new photo.
- In-person renewal at a Department of Revenue office takes 30 to 45 minutes and is required if your license is already expired or if you need a new photo.
- You must bring your current license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and proof of your Social Security number to renew in person.
- Missouri offers online renewal for some drivers, but only if you renewed by mail within the last renewal cycle and meet specific conditions.
Renewing by mail
Mail renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. You can renew by mail if your current license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions noted on it, and your address has not changed. You also cannot have any suspensions or revocations on your record.
To renew by mail, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407 or visit their website to request a renewal process. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee (the amount varies slightly by license type), and mail everything to the address listed on the form. Include copies of your proof of residency and proof of Social Security number — do not send originals. Your new license will arrive in about two weeks.
If you renewed by mail in your last renewal cycle and meet certain conditions, you may also be able to renew online through the Missouri Department of Revenue website. Online renewal is faster than mail and lets you pay by debit or credit card, but it is not available to everyone.
Renewing in person at a Department of Revenue office
Visit a local Department of Revenue office if your license is expired, if you need a new photo, or if you have had any changes to your address or name. You can find the office nearest you on the Missouri Department of Revenue website by entering your county or zip code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended evening hours.
Bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. If your name has changed, bring the certified document showing the change. The staff will take a new photo, verify your information, and process your renewal on the spot. The whole visit usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
You will pay the renewal fee at the office and receive a temporary paper license when ready. Your permanent license will arrive by mail in about two weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for the permanent one.
What happens if your license is expired
If your Missouri driver's license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead. This requires an in-person visit to a Department of Revenue office and includes a written test and a driving test. If your license expired less than one year ago, you can still renew it through the normal process.
If your license expired recently but you have not yet renewed, do not wait. Driving on an expired license is illegal in Missouri, even if you have applied for renewal. Renew as soon as possible to avoid a traffic stop and potential fines.
Renewal fees and payment methods
Missouri renewal fees depend on the type of license and how long it will be valid. A standard driver's license renewal costs one amount for a six-year license and a different amount for an eight-year license. Commercial driver's licenses and other specialty licenses have their own fees. Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue or check their website for the exact current fee for your license type.
If you renew in person, you can pay by cash, check, or debit card at most offices. If you renew by mail, you must send a check or money order. If you renew online, you can pay by debit or credit card. Do not send cash by mail.
If you have medical restrictions or suspensions
If your current license has medical restrictions or if you have any suspensions or revocations on your driving record, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must visit a Department of Revenue office in person. The office staff will review your record and determine whether you can renew or whether you need to take additional steps, such as providing a medical certificate or clearing a suspension.
If you are unsure whether your record has any restrictions or suspensions, call the Missouri Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407 before you go to the office. They can tell you over the phone whether you have any issues that will affect your renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my renewed license?
By mail, about two weeks. In person, you get a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent license arrives by mail in about two weeks. Online renewal is faster — you can print a temporary license right away in some cases.
Can I renew my license if I moved to a different address?
If you moved within Missouri, you must renew in person at a Department of Revenue office so they can update your address and take a new photo. You cannot renew by mail or online with an address change.
What if I lost my current license?
You cannot renew a lost license. Instead, you must explore for a replacement at a Department of Revenue office. Bring your proof of residency and proof of Social Security number. A replacement is similar to a renewal but requires an in-person visit.
Do I need an appointment to renew in person?
Most Missouri Department of Revenue offices do not require appointments for renewals, but some locations may ask you to schedule one during busy times. Check the office's website or call ahead to confirm whether you need an appointment.
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. Missouri allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early can be helpful if you are planning a trip or want to avoid a rush closer to your expiration date.