Where and how to renew your Texas driver's license
You can renew your Texas driver's 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.
In-person renewal at a DPS office takes about 30 minutes to an hour and requires you to bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. Mail renewal is available only if your license expired within the last two years and you have no changes to report. Online renewal works only for licenses that expired within the last two years and requires you to have a valid email address on file with DPS.
Key Takeaways
- Texas allows online renewal for licenses expired within two years, which is the fastest option if you are may be able to access.
- Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks and works only if your license expired within two years and you have no address or name changes.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license expired more than two years ago or if you need to update your information.
- You will need your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return) for in-person renewal.
- DPS offices accept appointments online, which can reduce wait times significantly compared to walk-in visits.
Online renewal through the Texas DPS website
Online renewal is the fastest path if your license expired within the last two years and you have no changes to make. You start at the Texas DPS website, select the online renewal option, and enter your driver's license number and date of birth. The system will verify your information against DPS records and ask you to confirm your address and other details.
The fee for online renewal is lower than in-person renewal — currently $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. You pay by credit or debit card during the transaction. Once approved, DPS mails your new license to the address on file, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. During this time, you can use your old license or print a temporary license from the DPS website to show law enforcement if stopped.
Mail renewal and what documents you need
Mail renewal works only if your current license expired within two years, you have no changes to your name or address, and you are not renewing a commercial driver's license. You read the DL-44 form from the Texas DPS website, fill it out completely, and mail it with your current license, a check or money order for the renewal fee, and a photocopy of your proof of Social Security number.
Mail your packet to the address listed on the DPS website for your region — there are multiple regional offices, and sending to the wrong address delays processing. 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 be mailed to the address you listed on the form.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than two years ago, if you have a commercial driver's license, or if you need to change your name, address, or other information. You can schedule an appointment online through the Texas DPS website or walk in to any DPS office, though appointments typically have shorter wait times.
Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government-issued mail dated within 90 days), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return). If your name has changed, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The renewal fee is $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, payable by cash, check, or card at the office. You will receive your new license when ready if you pass the vision test and photograph.
How long your renewed license is valid
Texas driver's licenses are valid for either four or eight years depending on which term you choose at renewal. A four-year license costs less upfront but requires you to renew more often. An eight-year license costs more but is valid longer. You select the term when you renew, whether online, by mail, or in person.
Your new license will have an expiration date printed on it. You can renew up to one year before the expiration date, which means you do not have to wait until the last moment. If your license expires while you are waiting for your renewal to be processed, you can show DPS documentation that you have submitted a renewal request — this protects you if you are stopped by law enforcement.
What to do if you cannot find your current license
If your current license is lost or stolen, you cannot use mail or online renewal. You must go to a DPS office in person and request a replacement license. Bring proof of residency and proof of Social Security number, the same documents required for in-person renewal. You will pay the renewal fee plus a replacement fee for the lost or stolen license. DPS will issue your new license on the spot after you pass the vision test and photograph.
If you suspect your license was stolen and used fraudulently, report it to DPS and ask them to flag your record. This protects you if someone tries to use your license number for other transactions.
Scheduling an appointment and reducing wait times
The Texas DPS website allows you to schedule appointments at most offices. Appointments are free and typically reduce your wait time from 30 minutes to an hour or more down to 15 to 20 minutes. You select your preferred office, date, and time, and receive a confirmation number by email.
If you walk in without an appointment, arrive early in the morning or on weekdays rather than Fridays, when offices are busiest. Some offices have longer wait times than others — smaller rural offices often move faster than large urban ones. Check the DPS website for current wait times at your nearest office before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than two years?
Yes, but you must renew in person at a DPS office. Online and mail renewal are available only if your license expired within two years. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to any DPS office.
What counts as proof of residency for renewal?
Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government-issued mail — all dated within 90 days of your visit. The document must show your name and current address. A cell phone bill or credit card statement does not count.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?
Your new license is mailed to the address on file and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can print a temporary license from the DPS website when ready after your renewal is approved to use while you wait for the physical license.
Do I have to renew in person if I want to change my address?
Yes. If you need to change your address, you must renew in person at a DPS office. Bring your current license, proof of residency at your new address, and proof of Social Security number. You cannot change your address through online or mail renewal.
What if I move before my renewed license arrives?
Contact DPS as soon as possible with your new address. If your license has already been mailed, DPS may be able to intercept it and reroute it. If it arrives at your old address, you can pick it up from the new resident or contact DPS to request a replacement mailed to your new address.