What You Need to Do to Renew in Louisiana

You can renew your Louisiana driver's license by mail, online, or in person at an Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have, and whether you need to update your photo. Mail and online renewals are faster and don't require a trip, but they're only available if your license hasn't expired and you haven't changed your address, name, or other key information.

Your renewal notice arrives in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. That notice contains a barcode and instructions for renewing online or by mail. If you don't receive one, you can still renew in person at any OMV office, but you'll need to bring documents to verify your identity and residency.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $32.50 for a four-year license or $65 for an eight-year license, payable by credit or debit card.
  • Mail renewal requires your renewal notice and takes two to three weeks; you mail your old license and payment to the address on the notice.
  • In-person renewal at an OMV office is required if your license has been expired for more than one year, you've changed your name or address, or you need a new photo.
  • You must bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of current Louisiana residency to renew in person.
  • OMV offices do not accept walk-ins; you must schedule an appointment online or by phone at 225-925-6146.

Renewing Online Through the Louisiana OMV Website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you have your renewal notice. Go to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website, select "Renew Your License," and enter the barcode number from your notice along with your driver's license number. You'll answer a few questions to confirm your information hasn't changed, upload or confirm your current photo, and pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card.

Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is available only if your license is still valid and you haven't moved or changed your name since it was issued.

Renewing by Mail

Mail renewal uses the same barcode from your renewal notice. Fill out the form included with the notice, sign it, and mail it along with your old license and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address printed on the notice. Do not send cash. Include a copy of your renewal notice with your payment.

Processing takes two to three weeks from the time the OMV receives your envelope. Mail your renewal at least three weeks before your license expires to avoid driving on an expired license. Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one or keep it for your records—Louisiana does not require you to return it.

Renewing in Person at an OMV Office

You must renew in person if your license expired more than one year ago, you've changed your name or address, you want a new photo, or you're renewing for the first time in Louisiana. Schedule an appointment online at omv.louisiana.gov or call 225-925-6146. Walk-ins are not accepted at any OMV office.

Bring your current driver's license or state ID, an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, your Social Security card, and proof of current Louisiana residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you've changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The OMV will take a new photo during your appointment.

In-person renewal takes about 15 to 20 minutes once you're called. You'll pay the renewal fee in cash, by check, or by card at the office. Your new license is printed on the spot, and you can drive home with it when ready.

Renewal Fees and License Validity Periods

Louisiana offers two renewal periods: four years or eight years. A four-year renewal costs $32.50 if you renew online or by mail, or $33 if you renew in person. An eight-year renewal costs $65 online or by mail, or $66 in person. The extra dollar for in-person renewal covers the cost of taking a new photo.

Choose the renewal period that works for your situation. The eight-year option costs more upfront but means you won't need to renew again for eight years. The four-year option is cheaper if you think you might move out of state or want to update your photo sooner.

What to Do If Your License Has Already Expired

If your license expired less than one year ago, you can still renew by mail or online using your renewal notice, as long as you haven't moved or changed your name. If your license expired more than one year ago, you must renew in person and bring all required documents. Driving on an expired license is illegal in Louisiana, even if you've submitted a renewal process.

If you've lost your renewal notice, you can still renew in person at an OMV office. Call 225-925-6146 to schedule an appointment and bring your documents. The OMV can look up your record and process your renewal without the notice.

OMV Office Locations and Hours

Louisiana has OMV offices in most parishes. The main office is in Baton Rouge at 7979 Independence Boulevard, but you can renew at any OMV location in the state. Office hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with some locations offering extended hours on certain days.

Find your nearest office and current hours on the Louisiana OMV website. Remember that you must schedule an appointment before you visit—the OMV does not accept walk-ins. If you can't find an appointment slot near you, try a different location or call 225-925-6146 to ask about availability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I owe a traffic fine or child support?

No. The OMV will not renew your license if you have an outstanding traffic fine, unpaid child support, or other court-ordered debt. You must resolve the debt first. Contact the court or agency listed on your notice to make a payment plan or settle the amount owed.

What if I've moved out of state since my last renewal?

You cannot renew your Louisiana license by mail or online if you've moved. You must renew in person at an OMV office and bring proof of your new Louisiana residency. If you've moved out of Louisiana permanently, you should obtain a driver's license from your new state instead.

How long can I drive after my license expires while waiting for my renewal?

You cannot legally drive on an expired license in Louisiana. If you renew online or by mail, your old license remains valid until your new one arrives. If you're renewing in person, your new license is issued when ready. Do not delay your renewal if your license is close to expiring.

Can I renew my license if I don't have a Social Security card?

You need your Social Security number to renew, but you don't necessarily need the physical card. Bring a document that shows your number, such as a tax return, W-2, or Social Security statement. If you don't have any of these, contact the Social Security Administration before your OMV appointment.

What happens if I renew online but my information was wrong?

Contact the OMV when ready at 225-925-6146 if you realize you made an error during online renewal. Depending on what changed, you may be able to correct it before your new license is printed. If the license has already been mailed, you may need to renew again in person to fix the mistake.