You cannot renew an expired Texas driver's license online

Once your Texas driver's license has expired, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires you to renew it in person at a DPS office. Online renewal is available only if your license is still valid or within a specific window before it expires — not after.

If your license is already expired, you will need to visit a DPS office with the required documents. The good news is that the process is straightforward, and you can check wait times and schedule an appointment before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • Expired licenses cannot be renewed online; you must go to a DPS office in person.
  • Online renewal works only if your license is still valid or within 60 days of expiration.
  • You can schedule a DPS appointment online at dps.texas.gov to reduce wait time.
  • Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to your appointment.
  • The renewal fee is $16 for a one-year license or $48 for a five-year license.

When you can renew online instead

Texas allows online renewal through the DPS website if your license is currently valid or will expire within 60 days. This window gives you time to renew before expiration without having to visit an office.

Online renewal is the fastest option when you are may be able to access. You complete the process on dps.texas.gov, pay the fee by credit or debit card, and receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit an office, take a new photo, or retake a vision test.

However, if your license expired more than 60 days ago, this option is no longer available to you, and you must go in person.

What you need to bring to a DPS office

When you renew an expired license in person, bring these documents:

  • Your expired Texas driver's license
  • Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 90 days)
  • Proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form)
  • Proof of citizenship or legal residency (birth certificate, passport, or permanent resident card)

If your name has changed since your license was issued, bring a document showing the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

You will also take a new photo and pass a vision test at the office, so bring any glasses or contacts you wear while driving.

How to schedule your DPS appointment

You can schedule an appointment online at dps.texas.gov to skip the walk-in line. Go to the DPS website, select your county and the office location closest to you, and choose an available time slot. Appointments typically fill up several weeks in advance, especially in larger cities.

If no appointments are available, you can still walk in, but wait times vary widely. Some offices have short waits; others may require several hours. Checking the website before you go shows you the current wait time for that location.

Bring your appointment confirmation number or your phone with the confirmation email when you arrive.

How long the renewal takes and what it costs

At the DPS office, the renewal itself usually takes 15 to 30 minutes once you are called. Your new license is issued on the spot, and you can drive with it when ready.

The fee depends on how long you want your license to be valid. A one-year renewal costs $16, and a five-year renewal costs $48. You can pay by cash, check, or card at the office.

If you need your license sooner than the standard processing time, DPS does not offer expedited in-person renewals, but your new license is ready to use the moment it is printed at the office.

What happens if you drive with an expired license

Driving with an expired Texas license is a traffic violation. A police officer can cite you, and you may face a fine. The fine amount depends on how long your license has been expired and whether you have prior violations.

If you are stopped, explain that you have an appointment or are on your way to renew. This does not erase the violation, but it may influence how an officer handles the situation. The safest approach is to schedule your DPS appointment as soon as you realize your license is expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have after my license expires to renew it?

Texas does not have a grace period. Your license is invalid the moment it expires. However, you can renew online up to 60 days before expiration, so plan ahead if you want to avoid the in-person requirement.

Can I renew my license by mail?

No. Mail renewal is not an option in Texas. You must either renew online (if may be able to access) or visit a DPS office in person.

What if I lost my expired license?

You can still renew in person without it. Bring the other required documents — proof of residency, Social Security number, and citizenship. The DPS office can look up your record in their system.

Do I need a new photo if I renew in person?

Yes. When you renew an expired license at a DPS office, you will take a new photo as part of the process. You cannot use your old photo from the expired license.

Can I renew someone else's expired license for them?

No. The person whose license it is must be present at the DPS office to take a new photo and pass the vision test. You cannot renew on their behalf.