Texas driver license renewal costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license

The fee you pay depends on which renewal period you choose. Texas offers both options at the time of renewal, and you decide which one works for your situation. You pay the fee when you submit your renewal — either online, by mail, or in person at a driver license office.

If you renew online or by mail, you'll pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check. If you renew in person, the office accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. The fee covers the cost of producing and mailing your new license to you.

Key Takeaways

  • A four-year Texas driver license renewal costs $16; an eight-year renewal costs $32.
  • You choose the renewal period when you submit your renewal process, and the fee is non-refundable once you've paid.
  • Online and mail renewals accept card and electronic check payments; in-person renewals also accept cash and check.
  • Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, typically arriving within 7 to 10 business days after approval.

When you pay the renewal fee

You pay the fee at the moment you submit your renewal request, not before and not after. If you renew online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website, the payment screen appears after you've entered your information and confirmed your details. If you renew by mail, you include a check or money order with your process packet. If you renew in person at a driver license office, you pay at the counter after the staff member processes your process.

Once you've paid, the fee is non-refundable. If you change your mind about renewing or if your process is denied, you do not get the money back. This is why it's important to make sure your information is correct before you submit payment.

Four-year versus eight-year renewal: which to choose

The four-year license costs $16 and the eight-year license costs $32. The eight-year option costs twice as much because you're paying for twice as long without having to renew again. Neither option is "better" — it depends on your preference and how often you want to handle renewal.

Some people prefer the four-year cycle because the fee is lower and they don't mind renewing more frequently. Others choose the eight-year option to avoid the renewal process for longer. Keep in mind that if your address, name, or other information changes before your license expires, you'll need to update it separately — the renewal period doesn't affect that requirement.

How to pay if you renew online

Online renewal through the Texas DPS website is the fastest payment method. After you've entered your personal information and confirmed your details, the system shows you the fee amount based on the renewal period you selected. You then enter your credit card, debit card, or electronic check information. The payment processes when ready, and you receive a confirmation number on screen.

Save or print that confirmation number — you'll need it if you have questions about your renewal later. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days after your process is approved.

How to pay if you renew by mail

Mail renewal requires you to send a check or money order along with your process materials. Write the check or money order for the exact amount — either $16 or $32 — and make it payable to "Texas Department of Public Safety." Include it in the same envelope as your completed process form and any required documents.

Mail the packet to the address listed on the Texas DPS renewal form. Processing takes longer by mail than online — typically two to three weeks after the office receives your packet, plus mailing time in both directions. Do not send cash through the mail.

How to pay if you renew in person

When you visit a driver license office to renew, you pay at the counter after the staff member verifies your information and processes your process. You can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The office will give you a receipt showing the amount paid and your process number.

In-person renewal is the fastest option for getting your new license. You typically receive it within 7 to 10 business days after your visit, mailed to the address on file. Some offices offer rush processing for an additional fee if you need your license sooner, though this varies by location.

What happens if you don't pay the renewal fee

If you don't pay the fee, your renewal process will not be processed. Your current license remains valid until its expiration date. You can submit your renewal process again at any time before your license expires, and you'll need to pay the fee at that point.

If your license expires before you renew, you cannot legally drive. Renewing after expiration requires an in-person visit to a driver license office and may involve additional requirements beyond the standard renewal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund if I change my mind after paying?

No. Once you've paid the renewal fee, it is non-refundable. If your process is denied for any reason, you do not receive a refund. Make sure your information is correct before you submit payment.

Do I have to choose the eight-year license to save money over time?

No. The four-year license costs less upfront, and you can renew as often as you prefer. The eight-year option is only cheaper per year if you calculate the cost over the full eight years, but you pay more money at once. Choose based on what fits your budget and preference.

What if I pay the wrong amount?

If you pay less than required, your process will not be processed. If you pay more, contact the Texas DPS to request a refund of the overage. Keep your receipt or confirmation number when you reach out.

Is the renewal fee the same for everyone?

The fee is the same for all standard driver licenses. Commercial driver licenses and other license types may have different fees. Check the Texas DPS website or call your local driver license office if you're unsure which category applies to you.