How to Renew Your Virginia Driver's License

Virginia driver's licenses renew by mail, online, or in person depending on your situation

You can renew your Virginia driver's license without visiting a DMV office if your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed since your last renewal. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) lets you renew online or by mail for most routine renewals. If your license is suspended, you have medical conditions listed on it, or you need to update your address, you must go to a DMV office in person.

Your license expires on your birthday. Virginia sends you a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before that date — that notice tells you which renewal method you're allowed to use. If you don't receive a notice, you can still renew, but having it makes the process faster.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $36 for a five-year license; you'll receive your new license by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Mail renewal requires sending your current license, the renewal form, payment, and a new photo to the DMV; processing takes 2 to 3 weeks.
In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if your license is suspended, you have medical restrictions, or your address has changed.
You cannot renew online or by mail if your name has changed since your last license was issued — you must visit a DMV office with proof of the name change.

Renewing online through the Virginia DMV website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you're allowed to use it. Go to the Virginia DMV website (dmvnow.com), select "Renew a Driver's License," and create or log into your account. You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and date of birth to start.

During the online process, you'll upload a new photo taken against a plain background, confirm your address, and pay the renewal fee by debit or credit card. The fee is $36 for a five-year license. Once you submit, you'll receive a confirmation number. Your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.

Online renewal is not available if your license is suspended, you have medical restrictions, your address has changed, or your name has changed since your last license. The system will tell you when ready if you're not may be able to access.

Renewing by mail with a paper form

Mail renewal works if you meet the same requirements as online renewal. Request the renewal form (DL 43) from the DMV by calling 804-367-0538, or read it from dmvnow.com. You can also pick one up at any DMV office.

Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it with your current license, a new photo, and a check or money order for $36 to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope if you want your old license back. The DMV will process your renewal in 2 to 3 weeks and mail your new license to the address on your process.

Keep a copy of the form and your check number for your records. If you're concerned about mail delays, online renewal is faster and more reliable.

Renewing in person at a DMV office

You must visit a DMV office if your license is suspended, you have medical restrictions, your address has changed, or your name has changed since your last license was issued. Bring your current license, proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and payment of $36. If your name has changed, bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

Find your nearest DMV office on dmvnow.com and check its hours before you go. Many offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., but some have different schedules. You can make an appointment online to reduce wait time, though walk-ins are also accepted. The renewal process at the office takes about 15 minutes, and you'll receive your new license on the spot.

What happens if your license expires before you renew

If your birthday passes and you haven't renewed yet, your license is expired and you cannot legally drive. You can still renew using any of the three methods above, but you'll need to visit a DMV office in person if your license has been expired for more than 12 months. An expired license within 12 months can still be renewed by mail or online if you otherwise meet the requirements.

Driving on an expired license can result in a traffic citation and fine. If you're close to your renewal date, don't wait — start the process as soon as you receive your renewal notice.

Paying for your renewal

Virginia driver's licenses cost $36 for a five-year renewal. You can pay by debit card or credit card online, by check or money order by mail, or by cash, debit card, or credit card in person at a DMV office. Some DMV offices also accept electronic check payments. Do not send cash by mail.

If you're renewing in person and paying by check, make it payable to the "Treasurer of Virginia." Keep your receipt or confirmation number in case you need to track your renewal.

Renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL)

Commercial driver's licenses cannot be renewed by mail or online. You must visit a DMV office in person with your current CDL, proof of address, and payment of $51 for a five-year renewal. You'll also need to pass a medical examination and provide a Medical Examiner's Certificate (Form MCSA-5875) signed by a certified medical examiner. The medical certificate must be dated within 12 months of your renewal date.

Schedule an appointment at a DMV office before you go. Bring all required documents, including your medical certificate, to avoid delays. The renewal process takes about 30 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license early?

Yes. You can renew up to 12 months before your license expires. Early renewal is useful if you're traveling or want to avoid the rush near your birthday. The new license will have a new expiration date five years from the renewal date, not from your original birthday.

What if I don't have a new photo for mail renewal?

You must include a new photo with mail renewal. Take a clear photo against a plain background, or visit a DMV office to have one taken there for a small fee. Online renewal lets you upload a digital photo, which is often easier than finding a physical copy.

How long does it take to get my license if I renew in person?

You receive your new license when ready when you renew at a DMV office. You can drive away with it the same day. Online and mail renewals take 7 to 10 business days and 2 to 3 weeks respectively.

What if my address changed but I don't want to go to the DMV?

You cannot renew by mail or online if your address has changed. You must visit a DMV office in person and bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days. This is a requirement for all address changes, not just renewals.

Can I renew if my license is suspended?

No. You cannot renew a suspended license through any method. You must resolve the suspension first by paying fines, completing required courses, or meeting other conditions set by the court or DMV. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew in person at a DMV office.

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.