What "revisar licencias" means and why you might need to do it
Revisar licencias means to check or review your driver's license — looking at the expiration date, making sure the information on it is correct, or confirming that your license is still valid to drive. You might need to do this if you're about to travel, if you've moved and changed your address, if you notice something looks wrong on the card itself, or if you straightforward want to know when you need to renew it.
Your driver's license is one of the most important documents you carry. It proves you're allowed to drive legally, and police or insurance companies may ask to see it. If your license has expired, you cannot legally drive — even if you're only going a short distance. If the information on it is outdated or incorrect, it can cause problems when you rent a car, board a plane, or deal with law enforcement.
The process of checking your license is straightforward and free. You can do it yourself by looking at the card, or you can check the status online through your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website. If your license is about to expire or the information is wrong, you'll know what steps to take next.
Key Takeaways
- Your driver's license expiration date is printed on the front of the card — usually in the bottom right corner — and you can check it yourself without contacting anyone.
- Most states let you check your license status online through the DMV website by entering your license number and date of birth.
- If your address, name, or other information has changed, you will need to visit the DMV in person or explore for a replacement card, depending on your state's rules.
- Renewing your license before it expires is faster and simpler than renewing after it has already expired.
- Some states allow you to renew your license by mail or online, while others require you to come to the DMV office in person.
How to find your expiration date on the card itself
The easiest way to check your license is to look at the physical card. Your expiration date is printed on the front, usually in the bottom right corner. It will show a month and year — for example, "12/2026" means your license expires in December 2026.
If you cannot find the expiration date on the front, check the back of the card. Some states print it in different locations. The date tells you exactly when your license stops being valid for driving. If today's date is after the expiration date, your license has expired and you should not drive until you renew it.
While you're looking at your card, check that all the information is correct: your name, date of birth, address, and eye color. If any of this information is wrong, you'll need to contact your state's DMV to request a correction or replacement card.
Checking your license status online through the DMV
Most states offer an online tool where you can check your license status without leaving home. Visit your state's Department of Motor Vehicles website — search "[your state] DMV" in any search engine to find the official site. Look for a link that says "Check License Status," "License Lookup," or "Driver License Information."
You'll usually need to enter your driver's license number and your date of birth. Some states also ask for your Social Security number or the last four digits of it. After you submit this information, the system will show you whether your license is valid, expired, or suspended, and when it expires.
If you cannot find this tool on your state's DMV website, you can call the DMV directly. Have your license number ready when you call. The staff can tell you the status of your license over the phone, though this may take longer than using the online tool.
What to do if your license is about to expire
If your license will expire within the next few months, you should start the renewal process. The exact steps depend on your state, but most states offer three options: renewing in person at a DMV office, renewing by mail, or renewing online.
Renewing online or by mail is usually the fastest and most convenient option if your state offers it. You'll need to provide basic information, pay a renewal fee (which varies by state), and submit a new photo if required. The new license will arrive by mail in two to four weeks.
If your state requires you to renew in person, you'll need to visit a DMV office with proof of identity, proof of residency, and payment for the renewal fee. Bring your current license and any documents that show your name or address have changed. Check your state's DMV website for a list of required documents before you go, so you don't make an unnecessary trip.
Updating your information if it has changed
If you've moved to a new address, changed your name, or need to correct any information on your license, you'll need to request a replacement or corrected card. This is different from a regular renewal — it's a change of information, and the process may be faster or slower depending on your state.
Most states let you report an address change online or by mail. You'll usually need to provide your new address, your current license number, and payment for a replacement card fee. Some states charge less for an address-only change than for a full replacement.
If the information on your license is incorrect — for example, if your name is misspelled or your date of birth is wrong — contact your DMV to find out what documents you need to bring to correct it. You may need to bring a birth certificate, Social Security card, or other official documents to prove the correct information.
What happens if your license has already expired
If your license has expired, you cannot legally drive. Driving with an expired license can result in a traffic ticket, a fine, or other legal consequences. If you are stopped by police, tell them your license is expired and that you are working to renew it.
Renewing an expired license usually takes longer than renewing one that hasn't expired yet. Some states require you to come to the DMV in person and take a new written test or vision test. Other states let you renew by mail or online even if your license is expired, though you may need to pay a late fee.
Check your state's DMV website to find out the exact process for renewing an expired license. If you're unsure, call the DMV and explain that your license has expired — they can tell you what you need to do and what documents to bring.
Understanding renewal fees and how long the process takes
Renewal fees vary by state and usually range from $20 to $100, depending on how long the new license is valid for (typically four to eight years). Some states charge extra if you're renewing an expired license or if you need a replacement card for a change of information.
The time it takes to renew depends on how you do it. If you renew online or by mail, expect two to four weeks for your new license to arrive. If you renew in person at a DMV office, you may get a temporary license on the spot and receive your permanent card by mail within two weeks. If you need to take a test or provide additional documents, the process may take longer.
To avoid delays, submit your renewal process as soon as you know your license is about to expire. Don't wait until the expiration date arrives — if you explore early, your new license may arrive before the old one expires, so you'll never be without a valid license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive if my license expires while I'm waiting for the new one to arrive?
This depends on your state. Some states issue a temporary license or receipt that you can use while waiting for your permanent card. Others do not. Check your state's DMV website or call to ask whether you'll receive proof that your renewal is in progress. If you do, keep it with you while driving.
What if I lost my license and need to check its status?
You can still check the status online using your license number and date of birth, or by calling the DMV. If your license is still valid, you can request a replacement card. If it has expired, you'll need to renew it at the same time you request a replacement.
Do I need to take a new photo when I renew my license?
Most states require a new photo every time you renew, but some allow you to keep your old photo if you renew by mail or online. Check your state's DMV website to see what's required. If you're renewing in person, bring a valid ID in case you need to take a new photo on the spot.
What documents do I need to bring to the DMV to renew my license?
You'll typically need your current license, proof of identity (like a passport or birth certificate), and proof of residency (like a utility bill or lease). Requirements vary by state, so visit your state's DMV website and look for a checklist of required documents before you go.
Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?
Some states will not renew your license if you have outstanding fines or tickets. Check your state's DMV website or call to ask. If this applies to you, you may need to pay the fine or set up a payment plan before you can renew.