Where to renew your Texas driver's license
You can renew your Texas driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, or online through the DPS website if you meet certain conditions. The online option is faster — you can complete it from home in about 10 minutes — but it's only open to people whose licenses are not suspended or revoked, who don't need a new photo, and whose current address is correct in the system.
If you need an in-person renewal, find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website by entering your zip code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but some offices now use an online check-in system that lets you reserve your spot and skip the walk-in line.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal takes 10 minutes and costs less, but only works if your license is valid, your address hasn't changed, and you don't need a new photo.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office requires your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number, and takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on office traffic.
- Texas driver's licenses expire on your birthday, and you can renew up to one year before expiration or up to two years after, depending on your age.
- The fee for a standard five-year renewal is $40 online or $50 in person; an eight-year license costs $60 online or $70 in person.
- Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you renew online, or when ready if you renew in person.
Renewing online through the DPS website
To renew online, go to the Texas DPS website and select "Renew Driver License" from the main menu. You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will confirm whether you're may be able to access for online renewal — if your license is expired, suspended, or if you need a new photo, you'll be directed to renew in person instead.
If you're may be able to access, you'll choose your license type (five-year or eight-year) and pay the fee by credit card or debit card. Texas does not accept checks or cash online. After payment, you'll receive a confirmation number by email. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your old license until the new one arrives.
Renewing in person at a DPS office
Bring your current Texas driver's license, proof of your current address, and proof of your Social Security number. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days. Proof of Social Security number can be your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form.
Walk in during office hours or check in online if your local office uses the reservation system. Tell the clerk you're renewing your license. You'll answer a few questions, have your photo taken, and pay the fee — $50 for a five-year license or $70 for an eight-year license. You'll receive your new license on the spot, usually within 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the office is.
Understanding license expiration and renewal windows
Your Texas driver's license expires on your birthday. You can renew it starting one year before your birthday, or up to two years after it expires. Renewing early doesn't change your expiration date — your new license will still expire on the same birthday, just five or eight years later.
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew it. You'll need to explore for a new license instead, which requires taking the written test and vision test again. If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you can still renew without retesting.
Choosing between a five-year and eight-year license
Texas offers two renewal options: a standard five-year license for $40 online or $50 in person, and an eight-year license for $60 online or $70 in person. The eight-year license costs more upfront but works out cheaper per year — about $7.50 per year versus $8 to $10 per year for the five-year option. Choose based on how often you want to renew and whether you prefer a lower when ready cost.
If you're over 85 years old, you can get a four-year license instead, which costs the same as the five-year option. Drivers over 85 also have the option to renew by mail if they prefer not to visit an office.
What happens if you renew after your license expires
If your license has been expired for less than two years, you can renew it without taking any tests. straightforward follow the online or in-person process above. Your new license will be valid from the date you renew it, not from your original expiration date.
If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew. You'll need to explore for a new license, which means taking the written knowledge test, the vision test, and the driving test. You'll also need to provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number, just as you would for a first-time license. Contact your local DPS office for the full list of documents required and to schedule your driving test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I've moved to a different address?
If you've moved, you must renew in person at a DPS office so they can update your address in the system. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 30 days. You cannot renew online if your address has changed.
What if I need a new photo for my license?
You must renew in person if you want a new photo. The DPS office will take your photo during the renewal process. Online renewal uses your existing photo from your current license.
How long does it take to get my license if I renew online?
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue using your old license until the new one arrives. If you need your license sooner, renew in person at a DPS office and you'll receive it when ready.
Can I renew my license by mail?
Mail renewal is only available to drivers over 85 years old. If you're under 85, you must renew online or in person. Contact your local DPS office for mail renewal instructions if you may have access to.
What if my license is suspended or revoked?
You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with DPS. Contact your local DPS office or the DPS website to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take to restore it before you can renew.