Documents and information you'll need to bring
Missouri requires you to bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Missouri residency to renew. You do not need to pass a written test or vision test unless your license has been expired for more than one year, or unless the Department of Revenue flags your record for a retest.
For proof of residency, Missouri accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. A phone bill does not count. If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that changed it — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Proof of Social Security number can be your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have any of these, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before you renew your license.
Key Takeaways
- Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of residency dated within 60 days to any Missouri license office.
- If your license expired more than one year ago, you will take a vision test and written test, even if you are renewing by mail or online.
- Missouri offers three renewal methods — in person, by mail, or online — and the method you choose determines which documents you mail or upload.
- The fee for a standard four-year renewal is $13.50 if you renew online, $16.50 if you renew by mail, and $16.50 if you renew in person.
- Processing time is when ready if you renew in person, three to five business days if you renew online, and seven to ten business days if you renew by mail.
Renewing in person at a Missouri license office
Walk into any Missouri Department of Revenue driver license office with your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You will complete an process form (DL-43) on site. The staff will take a new photo, verify your documents, and collect the fee. Your temporary license prints when ready; your permanent card arrives by mail in three to five business days.
No appointment is required, but wait times vary by location and time of day. The busiest times are typically mid-morning on weekdays and early afternoon on Saturdays. If you want to avoid a wait, call the office ahead of time to ask about current traffic.
Renewing by mail
Mail your current license, a completed process form (DL-43), proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency to the Missouri Department of Revenue. You can read the DL-43 form from the Missouri Secretary of State website or request one by phone at 573-526-2407.
Include a check or money order for $16.50 payable to the Missouri Department of Revenue. Do not send cash. Mail everything to: Missouri Department of Revenue, Driver License Bureau, P.O. Box 200, Jefferson City, MO 65105-0200. Processing takes seven to ten business days after the office receives your packet.
Renewing online
Missouri allows online renewal through the Secretary of State website if you meet three conditions: your license is not expired, you have a valid email address on file, and you do not need to change your name, address, or organ donor status. If you need to change any of those, you must renew in person or by mail.
Log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. Upload a photo of your current license and proof of residency. Pay the $13.50 fee by debit or credit card. You will receive a temporary digital license by email when ready and your permanent card by mail in three to five business days.
When you must renew in person
You cannot renew by mail or online if your license expired more than one year ago. You also cannot use mail or online renewal if you need to change your name, address, or organ donor status. In these cases, you must go to a license office in person.
If you are renewing after a lapse of more than one year, you will take a vision test and a written test on the rules of the road, even though you are renewing rather than testing for a new license. Bring your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency as usual.
License fees and validity periods
A standard Missouri driver's license is valid for four years from the date of issue. The renewal fee is $13.50 if you renew online, $16.50 if you renew by mail, and $16.50 if you renew in person. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license — required for federal buildings and domestic flights — the fee is $24.50 regardless of renewal method.
REAL ID renewal requires the same documents as a standard renewal, plus one additional document that proves your legal presence in the United States. A U.S. passport, passport card, or birth certificate counts. If you already have a REAL ID license, you can renew it as a standard license without the extra document.
What happens if your license is expired
You can renew a license up to one year after expiration without taking a test. After one year, you must take both a vision test and a written test, even if you are renewing rather than obtaining a new license. The written test covers Missouri traffic laws and road signs.
If your license has been expired for more than three years, you may need to provide additional documents or take a driving test. Contact your local license office to confirm what is required in your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I have an out-of-state address?
No. Missouri requires proof of residency in Missouri to renew. If you have moved out of state, you must obtain a license from your new state instead. You can surrender your Missouri license to any license office.
What if I lost my Social Security card?
You can bring a W-2, 1099, or tax return instead. If you do not have any of those documents, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you renew your license. The process takes one to two weeks.
Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?
Yes, if you renew in person or by mail. If you renew online, you upload a photo of your current license instead of taking a new one. Your new photo will be taken at the license office if you renew in person.
How long does my temporary license last?
Your temporary license is valid for 30 days. Your permanent card should arrive by mail before that expires. If it does not, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue to check the status.
Can I change my name when I renew?
You can change your name, but only if you renew in person or by mail. Bring a certified copy of the document that changed your name — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Online renewal does not allow name changes.