What you need before you start
Texas lets you renew your driver's license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website, but only if your license meets certain conditions. You can renew online if your current license is not expired by more than two years, you have no medical conditions or restrictions that changed, and you are not required to take a new photo (which happens every 16 years or when you turn 79).
Before you begin, gather your current Texas driver's license number and your Social Security number. You will also need a valid email address where the state can send you confirmation. The entire process happens on the DPS website at dps.texas.gov, and you do not need to visit an office or mail anything in.
If your license expired more than two years ago, if you need a new photo, or if your medical status changed, you cannot use the online renewal. In those cases, you will need to renew in person at a DPS office or an authorized county tax assessor-collector office.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal works only if your license expired less than two years ago and you do not need a new photo or medical updates.
- You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid email address to start the renewal on the DPS website.
- The renewal fee is paid by credit card, debit card, or e-check during the online process.
- Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, and delivery typically takes one to two weeks after approval.
Step-by-step process on the DPS website
Go to dps.texas.gov and look for the "Online Services" section. Select "Driver License Renewal" and then choose "Renew Online." The system will ask you to enter your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.
Next, you will review your current information on file — your name, address, and other details from your existing license. If anything has changed, you can update it during this step. Texas will ask whether you want to keep your current address or provide a new one. Once you confirm your information is correct, you will move to the payment screen.
The renewal fee varies depending on how long your new license will be valid. A standard renewal is typically less expensive than a new license with a photo. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or e-check. After payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation number by email. Save this number — you may need it to track your renewal or if you have questions.
What happens after you submit
The DPS processes online renewals and mails your new license to the address you provided. The state does not issue temporary licenses for online renewals, so you will need to keep your current license until the new one arrives. Delivery usually takes one to two weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.
You can check the status of your renewal by returning to the DPS website and entering your confirmation number. If there is a problem with your process — for example, if the state needs more information — the DPS will contact you by email or phone using the contact details you provided.
When you cannot renew online
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must renew in person. The same applies if you are required to take a new photo, which happens every 16 years or when you turn 79. You also cannot renew online if you have a medical condition that affects your driving, if your restrictions changed, or if you want to add or remove restrictions.
If you changed your name, you will need to renew in person and bring documents proving the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. The same is true if you want to change your address to one outside Texas or if your Social Security number changed.
Renewing in person instead
If online renewal does not work for your situation, you can renew at any DPS office or at a county tax assessor-collector office. Bring your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and any documents needed for your specific situation (like a name-change certificate). You will take a new photo and pay the renewal fee in person.
DPS offices and tax assessor-collector offices have different hours and wait times. You can find the office nearest you and check hours on the DPS website. Many offices allow you to make an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time.
Fees and what they cover
The cost of renewing your license online depends on how long your new license will be valid. A standard renewal for a license valid for five years costs less than a renewal for a longer period. The exact fee appears on the DPS website before you pay, so you will know the total before you complete the transaction.
Your renewal fee covers the cost of producing and mailing your new license. It does not include any additional services, such as changing your address to a new state or adding endorsements for commercial driving. If you need those changes, you will have to renew in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license online if it is already expired?
You can renew online if your license expired less than two years ago. If it has been expired for more than two years, you must renew in person at a DPS office or tax assessor-collector office and bring proof of residency.
What if I moved to a new address?
You can update your address during the online renewal process. straightforward enter your new address when the system asks you to review your information. Your new license will be mailed to the updated address.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?
Mailing typically takes one to two weeks after the DPS approves your renewal. You can track your renewal status on the DPS website using your confirmation number. Keep your current license until the new one arrives.
What if I need a new photo on my license?
If you are due for a new photo (every 16 years or at age 79), you cannot renew online. You will need to visit a DPS office or tax assessor-collector office in person to have a new photo taken.
Can I renew online if my medical restrictions changed?
No. If your medical status or driving restrictions changed, you must renew in person. The DPS needs to review your medical information and update your license accordingly.