What you need to know before you start
The Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) handles driver license renewals, and you can renew in person at a local DPS office, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Texas DPS website. The method you use depends on whether your license is expired, how long it's been expired, and what type of license you hold. Most people can complete a renewal without taking a new photo or retaking the written test, but some situations require an in-person visit.
Your current license must not be suspended or revoked for a renewal to go through. If you're unsure about the status of your license, you can check it on the Texas DPS website before you begin the renewal process.
Key Takeaways
- Texas allows online renewals for many drivers, but only if your license expired less than two years ago and you have no medical conditions that need review.
- Mail renewal is available for people age 79 and older, and for some military members stationed overseas.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license has been expired for more than two years, or if you need to update your address, name, or medical information.
- Renewal fees vary depending on the type of license and how long you want it valid — typically between $16 and $48 for a standard driver license.
- Processing times range from a few days for online renewals to several weeks for mail renewals, so plan ahead if you need your license by a specific date.
Online renewal through the Texas DPS website
Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access. You can renew online at the official Texas DPS website if your license expired less than two years ago, you have no medical conditions that require a doctor's statement, and your license is not suspended or revoked. You'll need your driver license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (credit card or debit card).
The online process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. You'll answer questions about your current information, pay the renewal fee, and receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your expired license while you wait for the new one to arrive, as long as you have your confirmation number with you.
If the online system tells you that you're not may be able to access to renew online, it means you'll need to visit a DPS office in person or use the mail renewal option if you may have access to.
Mail renewal for older drivers and military members
If you are age 79 or older, you can renew by mail without visiting a DPS office. You'll need to complete the process form (DL-44), include a copy of your current license, and mail everything to the address provided by TXDPS along with the renewal fee. Mail renewal typically takes 4 to 6 weeks from the time TXDPS receives your process.
Military members stationed outside the United States may also renew by mail. Contact your local military installation's administrative office or the Texas DPS website for the specific forms and mailing address for military renewals.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
You must renew in person at a DPS office if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need to change your name or address, if you have a medical condition that requires a doctor's statement, or if you want to change your license class. You'll also need to visit in person if the online system indicates you're not may be able to access for online or mail renewal.
Bring your current license (or expired license if you still have it), proof of identity such as a passport or birth certificate, proof of Texas residency such as a utility bill or lease, and your Social Security number. If you're changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you have a medical condition, bring a completed form from your doctor.
DPS offices operate during standard business hours, typically Monday through Friday. Wait times vary by location and time of day. You can check the wait time at your nearest office on the Texas DPS website before you go. The renewal fee is paid at the office, and you'll receive your new license on the spot if everything is in order.
Renewal fees and license validity periods
The cost of renewal depends on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid. A standard driver license renewed for 5 years costs $16, and a 8-year renewal costs $32. Commercial driver licenses (CDL) have different fees. You can choose the validity period when you renew — you don't have to renew for the same length of time as your previous license.
Fees are the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. Payment methods vary by renewal method: online renewals accept credit or debit cards, mail renewals require a check or money order, and in-person renewals accept cash, check, debit card, or credit card depending on the office.
What happens if your license is expired or suspended
If your license is expired, you cannot legally drive in Texas. Driving on an expired license can result in a traffic citation. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. You can check the status of your license on the Texas DPS website.
If your license is suspended, you may be able to request a hearing or take steps to have the suspension removed, depending on the reason for the suspension. Contact the Texas DPS directly to understand why your license was suspended and what you need to do to restore it.
Processing times and what to expect after you renew
Online renewals are processed within 7 to 10 business days, and your new license will be mailed to you. Mail renewals take 4 to 6 weeks. In-person renewals are completed when ready — you walk out with your new license the same day. If you renew online or by mail, you can drive on your expired license with your confirmation number until your new license arrives.
Your new license will have a new expiration date based on the validity period you chose at renewal. The expiration date is printed on the front of the license. If you don't receive your new license within the expected timeframe, contact the Texas DPS to track your renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it's been expired for more than two years?
No, you cannot renew online or by mail if your license has been expired for more than two years. You must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The in-person process is the same as a standard renewal, and you'll receive your new license the same day.
What if I moved and my address changed?
You must renew in person at a DPS office if you need to change your address. Bring proof of your new Texas residency, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days. You cannot update your address online or by mail during renewal.
Do I need a new photo when I renew?
If you renew online or by mail, your photo from your current license will be used on your new license. If you renew in person at a DPS office, a new photo will be taken. You cannot request to keep your old photo during an in-person renewal.
How much does it cost to renew, and what payment methods are accepted?
A standard driver license renewal costs $16 for 5 years or $32 for 8 years. Online renewals accept credit or debit cards. Mail renewals require a check or money order. In-person renewals accept cash, check, debit card, or credit card depending on the office location.
Can I drive while my renewal is being processed?
Yes, if you renewed online or by mail, you can drive on your expired license as long as you have your confirmation number with you. If you renewed in person, you received your new license when ready and can drive on it right away. Do not drive on an expired license without a confirmation number.