Texas driver's licenses are valid for six or eight years, depending on your age and when you were born

A standard Texas driver's license lasts six years if you are under 85 years old. If you are 85 or older, your license is valid for two years instead. The expiration date is printed on the front of your card in the bottom right corner — it shows the exact month and year your license expires.

Your license becomes invalid on that expiration date. You cannot legally drive after that date, and you cannot use an expired license as identification for most purposes. Renewing before the expiration date is your responsibility; Texas does not send automatic reminders.

Key Takeaways

  • Standard Texas driver's licenses expire six years from the date of issue, or two years if you are 85 or older.
  • The expiration date appears on the front of your license in the bottom right corner.
  • You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, so you do not have to wait until the last moment.
  • Renewing online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website is the fastest option if your license has not been suspended or revoked.
  • If your license has expired, you must renew in person at a DPS office or an authorized county tax assessor-collector office.

When your license expires based on your birth date

Texas calculates expiration based on your age at the time you get your license, not on a fixed schedule. When you first receive a license, the DPS sets the expiration date six years from that day — unless you are already 85 or older, in which case it is two years.

If you turn 85 between license renewals, your next renewal will be for a two-year license instead of six years. This means your renewal timeline changes once you reach that age. The DPS will tell you the new expiration date when you renew.

Renewing before your license expires

You can renew your Texas license up to one year before the expiration date. This means if your license expires in June 2025, you can renew starting in June 2024. Renewing early gives you time to handle it without rushing and ensures you have a valid license for the full six-year period.

Renewing early does not shorten your license validity. Your new license will still be valid for six years (or two years if you are 85 or older) from the date of renewal, not from the date your old license would have expired.

Renewing online through the DPS website

The Texas Department of Public Safety allows online renewal if your license has not been suspended or revoked and you meet other basic requirements. You can renew at dps.texas.gov by logging into your account, uploading a new photo if required, and paying the renewal fee.

Online renewal is the fastest option — you can complete it from home and receive your new license by mail within two to three weeks. You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. If you have had any license suspensions, revocations, or other issues, you must renew in person instead.

Renewing in person at a DPS office or tax assessor-collector

If you cannot renew online, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety office or an authorized county tax assessor-collector office in person. Bring your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form). You will also need to pass a vision test.

In-person renewal takes longer than online renewal. You will need to schedule an appointment at most DPS offices, and wait times vary by location. Some county tax assessor-collector offices accept walk-ins, but calling ahead is wise. You will receive your new license by mail after your appointment, usually within two to three weeks.

What happens if your license expires

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Texas. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you can be cited for driving with an expired license, which carries a fine. An expired license also cannot be used as valid identification for most purposes, such as boarding a plane or entering a federal building.

If your license has already expired, you cannot renew online — you must renew in person at a DPS office or tax assessor-collector office. The process is the same as a regular renewal, but you will be renewing a license that is no longer valid rather than one that is about to expire.

License renewal fees in Texas

The cost of renewing a Texas driver's license depends on the type of license and how long you are renewing it for. A standard six-year renewal costs $33 for most drivers. If you are 85 or older and renewing for two years, the fee is lower. Commercial driver's licenses and other specialty licenses have different fees.

Payment methods vary by renewal route. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards. In-person renewal at a DPS office or tax assessor-collector office may accept cash, check, or card depending on the location. Check the DPS website or call ahead to confirm what payment methods your local office accepts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive if my license expires tomorrow?

No. Your license becomes invalid on the expiration date shown on your card. Driving after that date is illegal, even if it is just one day past. If you are stopped, you can be cited for driving with an expired license.

Do I have to renew my license in person if it has been suspended?

Yes. If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot use online renewal. You must visit a DPS office or tax assessor-collector office in person. The office will check your driving record and tell you what steps you need to take before you can renew.

What if I lose my license before it expires?

You can replace a lost license at a DPS office or tax assessor-collector office. Bring your proof of identity and residency. A replacement license costs less than a renewal and is valid until your original expiration date, so you do not get extra years of validity.

Can I renew my license if I have moved out of state?

No. You must have a Texas address to hold a Texas driver's license. If you move to another state, you should obtain a license from that state. If you move back to Texas later, you can explore for a new Texas license.

How do I know my exact expiration date?

Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license in the bottom right corner. It shows the month and year. You can also log into your DPS account online to view your license information and expiration date.