What to bring when you renew in person
Missouri requires you to bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Missouri residency. Your current license counts as your primary ID. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days — it must show your name and current address.
You will also need to pass a vision test at the license office. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them. If you wear corrective lenses, your license will be marked with a restriction requiring you to wear them while driving.
If your name has changed since your last license was issued, bring a document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you have never had a Missouri license and are renewing from out of state, you will need to provide your out-of-state license as well.
Key Takeaways
- Bring your current Missouri driver's license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency dated within 60 days.
- You must pass a vision test at the license office, so bring your glasses or contacts if you use them.
- If your name has changed, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order documenting the change.
- Renewal fees vary by license type and validity period; standard renewals are less expensive than REAL ID compliant licenses.
- You can renew at any Missouri license office, and processing typically takes a few minutes if you have all documents.
Understanding Missouri license types and fees
Missouri offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a REAL ID compliant license. A standard license works for driving within Missouri and other states but cannot be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. A REAL ID license meets federal security standards and can be used for those purposes.
The fee for a standard renewal depends on whether you are renewing for four or six years. A four-year renewal costs less than a six-year renewal. A REAL ID renewal costs more than a standard renewal at the same validity period. When you arrive at the license office, staff will tell you the exact fee for the option you choose. You can pay by cash, check, or debit card at most offices.
If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the process is similar but the fee is higher and you may need to provide additional documentation related to your commercial driving record or medical certification.
Where to renew and how long it takes
You can renew your license at any Missouri Department of Revenue license office. You do not have to go to the office in your county — any location will process your renewal. During busy times, some offices have longer wait times than others. The Missouri Department of Revenue website lists all office locations and their hours.
If you arrive with all required documents, processing usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Your new license will be mailed to you within one to two weeks. You can continue driving on your current license while you wait for the new one to arrive, as long as it has not expired.
Some license offices are busier at certain times of day or on certain days of the week. Calling ahead or checking online wait times can help you choose when to visit. A few Missouri offices offer online scheduling, though this varies by location.
Renewing by mail if you meet the requirements
You may be able to renew by mail instead of visiting a license office, but only if you meet specific conditions. You must have a valid Missouri driver's license that is not expired or expiring within 30 days. You must have held your current license for at least four years. Your address on file must match your current address, or you must have updated it within the last 60 days.
To renew by mail, contact your local license office or visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website to request a renewal packet. The packet will include a form to sign and instructions for mailing it back with your current license and the renewal fee. Mail renewals take longer than in-person renewals — typically four to six weeks from the time the office receives your packet.
If you do not meet the mail renewal requirements, you must renew in person at a license office.
What happens if your license is expired
If your license has been expired for less than one year, you can renew it using the same process as a regular renewal. Bring the same documents and pay the standard renewal fee. If your license expired more than one year ago, you may need to retake the written test and vision test, depending on how long it has been expired. Call your local license office to ask what additional steps you will need to take.
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Missouri. If you are stopped by police, you can be cited. If your license has been expired for a long time, renew it as soon as you can.
Updating your address or other information
If you need to change your address, name, or other information on your license before it expires, you do not have to wait until renewal. You can update your address online through the Missouri Department of Revenue website if you have a valid email address and your Social Security number. Address changes made online are free.
If you need to change your name or other information besides your address, you must visit a license office in person. Bring the same documents you would bring for a renewal, plus any documents proving the change (such as a marriage certificate). You will pay a small fee for the updated license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online?
Missouri does not offer full online renewal for driver's licenses. You can update your address online, but to renew your license itself, you must either visit a license office in person or renew by mail if you meet the requirements. Mail renewal is available only if your license is not expired, you have held it for at least four years, and your address is current.
What if I lost my current license?
If you have lost your license, you cannot use the standard renewal process. You will need to explore for a replacement license at a license office. Bring proof of your identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You will pay a replacement fee, which is different from a renewal fee. The process is similar to renewal but takes slightly longer.
Do I need a REAL ID license to drive in Missouri?
No. A standard driver's license is sufficient for driving within Missouri and other states. You only need a REAL ID license if you plan to board a domestic flight, enter a federal building, or access certain military bases. If you do not need it for those purposes, a standard license renewal is less expensive.
What if my vision has changed since my last license?
You will take a vision test when you renew. If your vision has changed and you now need glasses or contacts, the test will show that. Your new license will be marked with a restriction requiring corrective lenses. If you already wear glasses or contacts, bring them to your renewal appointment so the test is accurate.
How long is a renewed license valid?
A renewed Missouri driver's license is valid for either four or six years, depending on which option you choose at renewal. You can select the validity period when you renew. A six-year license costs more but means you will not need to renew again for longer.