Texas driver's 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. A standard four-year renewal costs $16. If you want an eight-year license, you pay $32. These are the only two options available through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). You cannot renew for a shorter period or pay a reduced rate for a partial renewal.
The fee covers the cost of producing and mailing your new license to you. It does not include any additional services like name changes, address corrections, or adding endorsements. Those services may have separate fees or require an in-person visit to a DPS office.
You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The renewal fee is the same regardless of which method you choose. However, some renewal methods may have restrictions based on your age, license type, or how long it has been since your last renewal.
Key Takeaways
- A four-year Texas driver's license renewal costs $16, and an eight-year renewal costs $32.
- You pay the same fee whether you renew online, by mail, or at a DPS office in person.
- The renewal fee covers only the license itself; changes to your name, address, or endorsements may require additional fees or an office visit.
- Your license expires on your birthday, and you can renew up to one year before that date.
- If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew by mail or online and must visit a DPS office in person.
When you can renew and how far in advance
You can renew your Texas driver's license up to one year before it expires. Your expiration date appears on the front of your license and is tied to your birthday. Starting one year before that date, you can begin the renewal process through any available method.
If your license has expired, you still have options, but they depend on how long ago it expired. If it expired within the last two years, you can renew by mail or online. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a DPS office. In that case, you will also need to pass a vision test and may need to provide additional documents.
Renewing early is often a good idea because it ensures you do not accidentally drive on an expired license. It also gives you time to correct any errors on your new license before it arrives.
How to pay the renewal fee
The payment method depends on how you choose to renew. If you renew online through the DPS website, you pay by credit card or debit card. If you renew by mail, you send a check or money order along with your renewal process. If you renew in person at a DPS office, you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
Online renewal is usually the fastest option. You can complete the entire process in minutes, and your new license typically arrives within two weeks. Mail renewal takes longer because the DPS must receive your process, process it, and mail your license back to you—usually three to four weeks total.
In-person renewal at a DPS office is when ready in terms of payment, but you may have to wait in line. Your new license is mailed to you after the office processes your process, not handed to you on the spot.
What the renewal fee does and does not cover
The $16 or $32 renewal fee covers the cost of producing your new license card and mailing it to your address on file. It does not cover any changes you want to make to your license information.
If you need to change your name, address, or add a commercial driver's license (CDL) endorsement, those are separate transactions with their own fees or requirements. A name change, for example, requires an in-person visit and proof of the name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order). An address change can often be done online or by mail at no additional cost if you are straightforward updating your mailing address, but changing your address of residence may require additional documentation.
If your license was suspended, revoked, or cancelled, you cannot renew it. You must contact the DPS to resolve the suspension or revocation before you can get a new license.
Differences between four-year and eight-year licenses
The main difference is cost and how long the license lasts. A four-year license costs $16 and expires four years from your birthday. An eight-year license costs $32 and expires eight years from your birthday. Both licenses are valid for driving in Texas and across the United States.
There are no other functional differences between them. An eight-year license does not give you any special privileges or exemptions. It straightforward means you do not have to renew as often. For some people, the eight-year option is worth the extra $16 to avoid renewal every four years. For others, the four-year option is cheaper if they expect to move, change their name, or update their information within four years.
You can switch between the two options each time you renew. If you chose a four-year license last time, you can choose an eight-year license the next time you renew, or vice versa.
Renewal methods and their timelines
| Renewal Method | How You Pay | Processing Time | Who Can Use It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online (DPS website) | Credit or debit card | 2 weeks for license to arrive | License expired less than 2 years ago; no name or address changes |
| By mail | Check or money order | 3 to 4 weeks for license to arrive | License expired less than 2 years ago; no name or address changes |
| In person at DPS office | Cash, check, debit card, or credit card | License mailed within 2 weeks | Anyone; required if license expired more than 2 years ago |
What happens if you drive on an expired license
Driving on an expired Texas driver's license is against the law. If you are stopped by a police officer, you can be cited and fined. The fine amount varies but can range from $100 to $200 or more depending on the circumstances and the officer's discretion.
An expired license is also a problem if you are in an accident. Your insurance may not cover the accident if your license was expired at the time, which could leave you personally liable for damages. This is one reason to renew before your license expires, even if you have a grace period in mind.
Texas does not have an official grace period for expired licenses. You should renew before your birthday to avoid any legal issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license if I live out of state?
Yes. You can renew by mail or online if your license expired less than two years ago and you do not need to make changes to your information. If you need an in-person visit, you must travel to a DPS office in Texas or contact the DPS to see if they offer any remote options for out-of-state residents.
Do I have to renew in person if I want to change my address?
Not always. If you are straightforward updating your mailing address, you can often do that online or by mail during renewal. If you are changing your address of residence (where you actually live), you may need to visit a DPS office in person and provide proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
What if I lose my license before the renewal arrives?
You can request a replacement license at a DPS office. There is a separate fee for a replacement (usually $11 for a four-year license). If you have already paid for a renewal, contact the DPS to cancel the renewal and avoid paying twice.
Can I renew my license if it was suspended or revoked?
No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with the DPS before you can renew. Contact your local DPS office or the DPS website to find out the reason for the suspension and what steps you need to take to clear it.
Is there a discount for seniors or military members?
Texas does not offer a reduced renewal fee for seniors or military members. The fee is $16 for a four-year license and $32 for an eight-year license for all drivers. However, some DPS offices may waive fees for certain circumstances—contact your local office to ask.