Yes, you can renew online if you meet Missouri's requirements
Missouri lets you renew your driver's license online through the Missouri Department of Revenue website, but only if your license hasn't expired more than five years ago and you haven't had certain violations or changes to your record. The online renewal takes about 10 minutes, costs $11.50, and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method.
Not everyone can use the online route. If your license expired more than five years ago, if you've had a suspension or revocation, if you've changed your name or address since your last renewal, or if you're under 21, you must renew in person at a Missouri license office instead.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal works only if your license expired within the last five years and you have no suspensions, revocations, or recent violations on your record.
- The online process costs $11.50 and takes about 10 minutes; your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
- You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and a debit or credit card to complete the renewal.
- If you've changed your name, address, or vision correction needs since your last renewal, you cannot renew online and must visit a license office in person.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you go to the Missouri Department of Revenue website to begin your renewal:
- Your current Missouri driver's license (you'll need the number printed on it)
- Your Social Security number
- A debit card or credit card for the $11.50 fee
Make sure your current address on file with the state is correct. If you've moved since your last renewal and haven't updated your address with the Department of Revenue, you cannot renew online. You'll need to visit a license office to change your address first, then you can renew online after that change is processed.
Step-by-step: how to renew online
Go to the Missouri Department of Revenue's online renewal portal at dmv.mo.gov. Look for the "Renew Your Driver's License" option on the homepage. You'll be asked to enter your driver's license number and your date of birth to pull up your record.
Review the information the system shows — your name, address, and current license details. If anything is wrong, stop here and visit a license office instead; the online system cannot fix errors in your record. If everything matches, proceed to confirm your information and answer a few questions about your vision and any medical conditions that might affect your driving.
Enter your payment information and submit. You'll receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file; standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.
When you cannot renew online
The online system will reject your renewal if any of these explore to you: your license expired more than five years ago, your license has been suspended or revoked, you have an active traffic violation or court case, you're under 21 years old, or you've had a name change since your last renewal.
You also cannot renew online if you need to change your address, update your vision correction status (such as adding or removing glasses restrictions), or change your gender marker. In all these cases, you must visit a Missouri license office in person. Bring your current license, proof of your new address if you're moving, and any medical documentation if your vision or medical status has changed.
What happens after you submit your online renewal
The Department of Revenue processes online renewals within one business day. You'll receive a confirmation email with your renewal number. Your new license is printed and mailed to your address on file; you should receive it within 7 to 10 business days, though mail times can vary depending on your location.
You can drive legally on your current license while you wait for the new one to arrive. If more than two weeks pass and you haven't received your new license, contact the Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407 to check the status. Have your confirmation number ready.
If your online renewal is denied
If you submit your renewal and the system denies it, you'll see a message explaining why. Common reasons include a suspension on your record, an expired license that's too old, or a mismatch between the information you entered and what's in the state system.
If your renewal was denied, you must renew in person at a Missouri license office. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your address (such as a utility bill or lease). The office staff can review your record, fix any errors, and process your renewal on the spot. In-person renewals are usually completed the same day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is my renewed license valid?
A standard Missouri driver's license is valid for six years from the date it's issued. Your renewal confirmation email will show your new expiration date. You can renew online again when your license is within six months of expiring, as long as you still meet the online renewal requirements.
Can I renew online if I have a commercial driver's license?
No. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) cannot be renewed online in Missouri. You must visit a license office in person and bring your current CDL, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address. You may also need to pass a medical examination depending on your CDL class.
What if I'm renewing from out of state?
If you're living outside Missouri but your license is still valid, you can renew online as long as your license hasn't expired more than five years ago and you have no suspensions. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file with the state. If you've moved to another state permanently, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue to update your address before renewing.
Do I need to take a new photo for an online renewal?
No. Online renewals use your photo from your current license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a license office. The office will take a new photo as part of the in-person renewal process.
Can I pay with something other than a debit or credit card?
No. The online renewal system accepts only debit cards and credit cards. If you don't have a card, you can renew in person at a license office and pay with cash, check, or card.