Documents and information required for Texas driver's license renewal
To renew a Texas driver's license by mail or online, you will need your current license number, your Social Security number, and a valid form of identification if you are renewing in person at a Department of Public Safety office. The state does not require you to submit physical documents with a mail renewal — the DPS verifies your identity against existing state records. If you are renewing online through the DPS website, you will answer security questions based on your driving and personal history instead.
If your license has been lost, stolen, or significantly damaged, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must visit a DPS office in person and bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a Social Security card or document showing your number, and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days).
Key Takeaways
- Standard renewals by mail or online require only your current license number and Social Security number — no documents need to be mailed in.
- If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond recognition, you must go to a DPS office in person with your birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address.
- Proof of address must be dated within the last 90 days and can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government document showing your current address.
- The DPS verifies your identity through existing state records during mail and online renewals, so the process does not require you to submit documents upfront.
When you can renew by mail without visiting an office
You can renew by mail if your license is still valid, not damaged, and you have not had a name change since it was issued. The DPS will mail you a renewal process packet to the address on file. You sign the form, include the renewal fee (currently $25 for a five-year license or $50 for an eight-year license, though fees can change), and mail it back to the address provided in the packet.
Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the DPS receives your completed form. Your current license remains valid during this period, so you can continue to drive. The new license will be mailed to your address on file.
Online renewal through the DPS website
Texas allows online renewal for drivers whose licenses are not damaged and who have not changed their name. You visit the Texas DPS website, enter your license number and other identifying information, and answer security questions. The system uses your answers to verify your identity against records the state already holds.
Online renewal is faster than mail renewal — you typically receive your new license within 7 to 10 business days. You pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card during the online transaction. This method is available 24 hours a day and does not require you to visit an office or mail documents.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
If you prefer to renew in person or if you cannot renew by mail or online, you can visit any DPS driver's license office. Bring your current license and proof of your current address. If your license is damaged or you have changed your name, bring your birth certificate and Social Security card as well.
In-person renewal is completed on the same day. You will have a new photo taken unless you are over 79 years old and choose to keep your existing photo. The new license is typically mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days, though you can request a temporary paper license to use while you wait.
Name changes and other updates during renewal
If your name has changed since your license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — you cannot renew by mail or online. You must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your current license, an original or certified copy of the document showing your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), your birth certificate, and proof of your current address.
The DPS will issue a new license with your updated name. This process takes longer than a standard renewal because the office must verify the name change document, so plan for a longer visit if you go in person during busy hours.
Address changes and license expiration dates
You can update your address without renewing your license by visiting the DPS website or a driver's license office. If you are renewing and have moved, provide your new address during the renewal process — the DPS will mail your new license to the address you provide.
Texas driver's licenses expire on your birthday. If your license has already expired, you can still renew by mail or online if it expired within the last two years and you meet the other renewal requirements. If it expired more than two years ago, you must visit a DPS office in person and may be required to pass a written test and vision test.
Fees and payment methods
A five-year Texas driver's license costs $25 to renew. An eight-year license costs $50. These fees are current but can change — check the DPS website for the most up-to-date pricing before you renew.
For mail renewal, include a check or money order with your process. For online renewal, pay by credit or debit card. In-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at most offices, though some locations may have different payment options — call ahead if you want to confirm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license if it expired more than two years ago?
No, not by mail or online. You must visit a DPS office in person. The office will require you to pass a written knowledge test and a vision test before issuing a new license, because the state treats licenses expired more than two years as if they were never held.
What if I moved and the DPS has my old address on file?
Provide your new address during the renewal process. For mail renewal, call the DPS or update your address online before mailing your process so the new license is sent to the correct address. For online renewal, enter your new address in the system.
Do I need a new photo when I renew?
Yes, unless you are over 79 years old. If you are 79 or older, you can choose to keep your existing photo. For mail and online renewals, the DPS uses your existing photo unless you request a new one.
How long does it take to get my renewed license after I explore?
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the DPS receives your completed form. Online renewal takes 7 to 10 business days. In-person renewal is completed the same day, but the physical license is mailed to you and arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
What if my license was stolen or lost?
You cannot renew by mail or online. Visit a DPS office with your birth certificate, Social Security card, and proof of address dated within the last 90 days. The office will issue a replacement license and may charge a replacement fee in addition to the renewal fee.