What you need to do to renew in Missouri

Missouri renews driver's licenses by mail or in person at a Driver License Office. You cannot renew online. If your license expires soon, you can start the process now — Missouri allows you to renew up to one year before your expiration date, and your new license will be valid from the date you submit it, not from when your old one expires.

The method you choose depends on whether you need a REAL ID-compliant license and whether your address or other information has changed. Most people can renew by mail if nothing on their license has changed. If you need to update your address, change your name, or get a REAL ID license for the first time, you will need to go to a Driver License Office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Mail renewal works only if your address and name are the same, your license is not expired more than five years, and you do not need a REAL ID license.
  • In-person renewal at a Driver License Office is required if you want a REAL ID license, have changed your address or name, or your license expired more than five years ago.
  • You will need your current license, proof of residency (a recent utility bill or bank statement), and proof of Social Security number to renew in person.
  • Processing time is usually one to two weeks by mail and same-day or next-day in person, though busy offices may take longer.
  • Your new license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks after the Driver License Office processes it.

Renewing by mail in Missouri

Mail renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. You can renew by mail if your current license is still valid (not expired), your name and address have not changed, and you do not need a REAL ID license. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires — this notice contains the form you need to send back.

Fill out the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee (currently $11.50 for a four-year license or $23 for an eight-year license, though fees can change), and mail it to the address shown on the notice. Do not send cash. Include your current license with the form. The Department of Revenue will process your renewal and mail your new license to the address on file.

If you did not receive a renewal notice, you can request one by calling the Missouri Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407, or you can go in person to a Driver License Office. Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks from the time the Department receives your form.

Renewing in person at a Driver License Office

You must renew in person if you want a REAL ID license, if your address or name has changed, if your license expired more than five years ago, or if you need to update other information on your license. Find your nearest Driver License Office on the Missouri Department of Revenue website — there are offices in most counties, and you can go to any office in the state, not just the one in your county.

Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, a W-2, or a tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, bank statement, or lease dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are renewing a REAL ID license, you will also need to bring proof of citizenship, such as a passport or birth certificate.

The fee for an in-person renewal is $11.50 for a four-year license or $23 for an eight-year license. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Most Driver License Offices issue your new license on the spot or within one business day. You will receive it by mail at the address you provide.

Understanding REAL ID licenses in Missouri

A REAL ID license is a federal standard that allows you to use your driver's license as identification for domestic flights and entry to federal buildings. Missouri calls this a "REAL ID compliant" license. If you have a standard Missouri driver's license now and want to switch to REAL ID, you must renew in person and bring proof of citizenship.

You do not have to get a REAL ID license. If you renew by mail or renew in person without requesting REAL ID, you will receive a standard license. The REAL ID license looks the same as a standard license but has a gold star in the upper right corner. The fee is the same either way.

What happens if your license has been expired for a long time

If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license. This requires an in-person visit to a Driver License Office and the same documents as an in-person renewal, plus you may need to take a written test and vision test depending on how long it has been expired. Call your local Driver License Office or the main line at 573-526-2407 to find out what tests you will need before you go.

If your license expired five years ago or less, you can still renew it using the standard process, either by mail or in person.

Fees and payment methods

The renewal fee for a Missouri driver's license is $11.50 for a four-year license or $23 for an eight-year license. These fees have been in place for several years, but you should confirm the current fee when you renew, as fees can change. If you renew by mail, send a check or money order — do not send cash. If you renew in person, you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

Some Driver License Offices may charge an additional fee if you need a replacement license (for example, if your license was lost or stolen) rather than a renewal, so ask when you arrive if you are unsure whether you are renewing or replacing.

How to find your nearest Driver License Office

The Missouri Department of Revenue maintains a list of all Driver License Offices on its website at dor.mo.gov. You can search by county or city to find the office nearest you, along with hours and phone numbers. Many offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours or Saturday hours — check the website for your specific location.

If you have questions about your renewal before you go, call the office directly or call the main Department of Revenue line at 573-526-2407. Wait times can be long during peak hours, so calling ahead or arriving early in the day may save you time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding ticket or fine?

No. If you owe a traffic fine or have an outstanding ticket, the Department of Revenue will not renew your license until the matter is resolved. Contact the court listed on your ticket to pay the fine or resolve the case before you attempt to renew.

What if my address changed but I do not want to update my license right now?

You can renew your license with your old address on file, but Missouri law requires you to notify the Department of Revenue of an address change within 30 days. You can update your address separately without renewing your license by visiting a Driver License Office or calling 573-526-2407.

How long is my new license valid after I renew?

A four-year license is valid for four years from the date you submit your renewal. An eight-year license is valid for eight years. Your new expiration date will be printed on the license when you receive it.

What if I move out of Missouri before my license arrives?

Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407 with your new address, and they can redirect your license to your new state. You will then need to transfer your license to your new state's requirements once you arrive.

Can someone else pick up my license for me at the Driver License Office?

No. If you renew in person, you must be present to have your photo taken and to sign your new license. If you renew by mail, your license will be mailed to the address on file.