Where to go for a Cheyenne driver's license
In Cheyenne, you get your driver's license through the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) Driver Services division. The main office is located at 5300 Bishop Boulevard in Cheyenne. You cannot renew or obtain a license online or by mail — you must appear in person at a WYDOT office.
WYDOT operates several locations across Wyoming, but the Cheyenne office is the largest and typically has the shortest wait times. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed on state holidays. You can check current wait times and book an appointment on the WYDOT website before you go, which can save you an hour or more of waiting.
Walk-ins are accepted, but appointments are strongly recommended, especially if you need a commercial driver's license (CDL) or are explore for the first time. The office gets busiest mid-morning and mid-afternoon on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a WYDOT office in person in Cheyenne — online and mail renewal are not available for any license type.
- Bring your current license or ID, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number or ITIN.
- Standard driver's licenses cost $30 for an eight-year renewal; first-time licenses and CDLs have different fees and requirements.
- Book an appointment on the WYDOT website to avoid long waits, though walk-ins are accepted during business hours.
- Vision screening is performed at the office; you do not need to bring results from an eye doctor unless you have a medical restriction.
Documents you need to bring
WYDOT requires specific documents depending on whether you are renewing an existing license or obtaining one for the first time. For a renewal, bring your current Wyoming driver's license or ID card, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
Proof of residency must be a recent document (usually within 90 days) showing your name and Cheyenne address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency.
If you are explore for your first Wyoming license, you will also need proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or out-of-state license), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of residency. If your name has changed due to marriage or court order, bring the marriage certificate or court document.
For medical or vision restrictions, WYDOT may ask for a letter from your doctor or eye care provider, but you do not need to bring this unless the office specifically requests it after your vision screening.
What happens during your visit
When you arrive at the WYDOT office, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. You will then be called to a station where a clerk verifies your documents, takes your photograph, and conducts a vision screening using a machine that tests your ability to read letters and numbers at a distance.
The vision screening takes about two minutes. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test. If you fail the screening, WYDOT will note a restriction on your license requiring corrective lenses. You do not need to bring a doctor's report unless you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely.
After the screening, you will take a written test covering Wyoming traffic laws and road signs. The test has 25 questions; you must answer at least 20 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at no additional cost. First-time applicants must also pass a driving skills test at a separate appointment, usually scheduled within two weeks.
Once you pass all tests, you will pay the fee and receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to your address.
Renewal versus first-time license costs and timelines
A standard eight-year driver's license renewal costs $30. If you are renewing early (before your current license expires), the fee is the same, but your new expiration date will be eight years from the date you renew, not eight years from your old expiration date. Some people renew early to update their address or photograph.
A first-time Wyoming driver's license also costs $30 for an eight-year license. However, if you are under 21, the license costs $20 and expires when you turn 21. Drivers aged 21 to 64 receive an eight-year license; drivers 65 and older can choose between a four-year and an eight-year license.
A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs $50 for an eight-year license and requires additional testing and documentation. CDL applicants must provide medical certification from a doctor and pass a more rigorous written and driving test.
Processing time for a standard renewal is typically 10 to 14 business days from the date you visit the office. Your temporary paper license is valid during this time. If you need your license faster, WYDOT does not offer expedited printing, but you can use your temporary license as proof of driving status until the permanent card arrives.
Vision requirements and medical restrictions
Wyoming law requires all drivers to pass a vision screening at the time of renewal or first-time process. The screening tests your ability to see clearly at a distance and to distinguish colors. You must have vision of at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without correction.
If you wear glasses or contacts, you must wear them during the screening. If you fail the screening, WYDOT will place a restriction on your license requiring corrective lenses. This restriction means you must wear your glasses or contacts whenever you drive.
If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive — such as seizures, severe arthritis, or a recent stroke — WYDOT may require a letter from your doctor before issuing or renewing your license. You do not need to bring this letter to your first visit; the office will tell you if one is needed based on your answers to health questions on the process form.
If you have had a significant change in your vision or health since your last license was issued, tell the clerk at the office. They can note this in your file and may refer you to a medical review officer if necessary.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it at the WYDOT office in Cheyenne. Bring your proof of identity and proof of residency, just as you would for a renewal. The replacement fee is $10 if your license is not yet expired, or $30 if it has expired.
If your license was stolen, you do not need a police report to replace it, though having one on file can help if someone uses your license fraudulently. You can report the theft to the Cheyenne Police Department separately if you wish.
A replacement license is issued the same way as a renewal: you receive a temporary paper license when ready and the permanent card arrives by mail in 10 to 14 business days. If your license was damaged, bring the damaged card with you so the clerk can see what happened.
Address changes and other updates
If you move within Wyoming, you must update your address with WYDOT within 30 days. You can do this in person at the Cheyenne office by bringing proof of your new address and your current license. There is no fee for an address change if your license is not yet expired.
If you move out of Wyoming and then move back, you will need to explore for a new Wyoming license as if you were a first-time applicant. Your old Wyoming license cannot be renewed after you have been out of state.
If your name changes due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring your current license and the legal document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) to the office. WYDOT will issue a new license with your updated name at no additional charge if your license is not yet expired. If it has expired, you pay the standard renewal fee of $30.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. Your new expiration date will be eight years from the date you renew, not eight years from your old expiration date. This is useful if you want to update your photograph or address before your current license expires.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the written test the same day at no additional cost. You have up to three attempts per visit. If you fail all three times, you must return on another day to try again. Most people pass on the second attempt after reviewing the material.
Do I need an eye exam from a doctor before I go to WYDOT?
No. WYDOT performs a vision screening at the office, and that is sufficient for a standard renewal or first-time license. You only need a doctor's report if you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive or if WYDOT specifically requests one after your screening.
How long does the whole process take?
Your visit to the office usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on wait time and whether you pass all tests on the first attempt. Your permanent license arrives by mail in 10 to 14 business days. Your temporary paper license is valid during this time.
What if I move out of state after I renew in Cheyenne?
Your Wyoming license remains valid in other states for the duration of its expiration date. If you move to another state and want to get a license there, you will need to follow that state's procedures. You do not need to notify WYDOT that you have moved out of state.