How to Renew Your Virginia Driver's License Online

What You Need Before You Start

Virginia lets you renew your driver's license online if you meet a few basic conditions. You must have a valid Virginia license that is not suspended or revoked, you cannot be renewing for the first time, and your license cannot have expired more than one year ago. You will also need your Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid payment method — Virginia accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and costs $36 for a four-year renewal or $56 for an eight-year renewal. You will not receive a physical card when ready; instead, Virginia will mail your new license to the address on file, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, your current license remains valid.

Key Takeaways

You can renew online only if your current Virginia license is valid and expired less than one year ago.
The renewal costs $36 for four years or $56 for eight years, paid by credit or debit card during the online process.
Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; your old license stays valid until then.
You will need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current license number to complete the renewal.

Step 1: Go to the Virginia DMV Website

Open a web browser and go to dmvnow.com, which is Virginia's official Department of Motor Vehicles portal. Look for the "Renew Your License" option on the homepage. You may see several renewal paths listed — select the one for online renewal. The site will ask you a few screening questions to confirm you are may be able to access before you proceed.

If the screening questions indicate you cannot renew online, the site will tell you which in-person service you need instead. This happens if your license is suspended, if you need to update your address, or if you are renewing after a long lapse. Do not try to work around these restrictions; they exist because your situation requires a visit to a DMV office.

Step 2: Enter Your Personal Information

The form will ask for your driver's license number, Social Security number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your phone number. Enter these exactly as they appear in Virginia's records. If any information does not match what DMV has on file, the system will reject your submission and direct you to an in-person office.

Double-check each field before moving forward. A typo in your Social Security number or license number is the most common reason renewals fail at this stage. If you are unsure of your license number, look at the front of your current card — it is the number in the upper right corner.

Step 3: Review and Confirm Your Address

The system will display the address Virginia has for you. If you have moved since your last license was issued, you must update your address now. Click the option to change your address and enter your new one. Virginia will mail your renewed license to whichever address you confirm at this step.

If your address is correct, confirm it and move forward. If you need to change it but the online form will not accept your new address, you will need to visit a DMV office in person to complete the renewal — you cannot renew online if your address change requires verification.

Step 4: Choose Your Renewal Length and Pay

Virginia offers two renewal periods: four years for $36 or eight years for $56. Select the option you prefer. The longer renewal costs more upfront but means you will not need to renew again for eight years. After you choose, the system will display the total amount due.

Enter your payment information — Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover. The charge will appear on your statement as "Virginia DMV" or "VDMV." After your payment processes, you will receive a confirmation number on screen. Write this down or take a screenshot; you will need it if you have questions about your renewal later.

Step 5: Wait for Your License to Arrive

After you complete the online renewal, Virginia will print your new license and mail it to the address you confirmed. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid during this time, so you can continue to use it for identification and driving.

If your license does not arrive within 10 business days, log back into dmvnow.com and use your confirmation number to check the status. You can also call the Virginia DMV customer service line at 1-866-368-5463 to ask about your renewal. Have your confirmation number ready when you call.

What to Do If Your Renewal Is Rejected

If the system rejects your renewal during any step, it will tell you why. Common reasons include a suspended or revoked license, an address that needs in-person verification, or information that does not match DMV records. When this happens, you must visit a DMV office in person to complete your renewal.

Find your nearest DMV office at dmvnow.com and check their hours before you go. Bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease works), and your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number. Some offices accept walk-ins; others require you to book an appointment online first. Check your local office's policy before you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew online if my license expired more than a year ago?

No. Virginia's online renewal is only for licenses that expired within the past year. If your license has been expired longer than that, you must renew in person at a DMV office. You will need to bring your expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security card or a document with your number.

What if I moved and need to update my address?

You can update your address during the online renewal process. The system will ask you to confirm or change the address on file before you pay. If you have moved multiple times or your new address is outside Virginia, the system may require you to visit a DMV office instead. The form will tell you if this applies to you.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?

Virginia mails renewed licenses within 7 to 10 business days of processing your renewal. This does not include weekends or holidays. Your old license stays valid while you wait, so you can continue to drive and use it for identification. If you do not receive your license within 10 business days, contact the DMV using your confirmation number.

What if I need my license before it arrives in the mail?

Your current license remains valid until your new one arrives, so you can continue to use it. If you need a replacement license sooner — for example, if your current one is lost or damaged — you must visit a DMV office in person. They can issue a temporary license on the spot.

Can I renew online if my license is suspended?

No. The online system will reject your renewal if your license is suspended or revoked. You must visit a DMV office in person. Bring your license, proof of residency, and your Social Security card. The office can tell you what steps are needed to lift the suspension before you can renew.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.