What happens when your license expires and how to renew it

Your driver's license has an expiration date printed on the front. When that date passes, you can no longer legally drive. Renewing your license means getting a new one issued with a fresh expiration date — usually five to eight years in the future, depending on your state. Most states let you renew by mail, online, or in person at the DMV, and many will send you a reminder notice a few months before your license expires.

The renewal process is simpler than getting your first license because you do not need to retake the written or driving test (unless your state requires it, or unless you have certain medical conditions). You mainly need to confirm your identity, pay the renewal fee, and provide an updated photo if your state requires one.

Key Takeaways

  • Most states send a renewal notice 30 to 90 days before your license expires, which tells you the important date and how to renew.
  • Online renewal is the fastest option in most states, takes 10 to 15 minutes, and costs the same as renewing in person.
  • By-mail renewal takes two to four weeks but requires you to mail in your current license and a completed form.
  • In-person renewal at the DMV is necessary if your state requires a new photo, if you have changed your name, or if you want to update your address.
  • Renewing before your license expires keeps you legal to drive and avoids late fees or the need to retake tests.

Check your expiration date and renewal window

Your license expiration date is printed on the front, usually in the bottom right corner. Most states allow you to renew starting 6 months before that date, though some open the window earlier. Renewing too early may push your new expiration date further into the future than you want, so check your state's rules before you start.

If you have lost your renewal notice or cannot find your license, you can look up your expiration date on your state's DMV website. You will need your driver's license number or your Social Security number. Some states also let you call the DMV to confirm the date over the phone.

Renewing online (fastest option in most states)

Online renewal is available in most states and is usually the quickest route. You visit your state's DMV website, create an account or log in if you already have one, and answer questions about your current license and any changes to your address or name. The system checks your information against state records and tells you within minutes whether you are approved.

Online renewal typically costs the same as in-person renewal — usually between $30 and $100 depending on your state and how many years you are renewing for. You pay by debit card or credit card at the end. Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 14 days. You can usually drive on your current license until the new one arrives, even if your current one has expired, as long as you can show proof that you have submitted your renewal.

Not everyone can renew online. You cannot use online renewal if your state requires a new photo, if you have changed your name, if you have certain medical conditions, or if your license was suspended or revoked. Check your state's DMV website to see whether you are may be able to access before you start.

Renewing by mail

By-mail renewal is available in most states and requires you to send in your current license along with a completed renewal form. You can read the form from your state's DMV website or request one by mail. You also need to include a check or money order for the renewal fee — credit cards are usually not accepted by mail.

Mail the form, your license, and payment to the address listed on the form or on your state's DMV website. Processing takes 2 to 4 weeks from the time the DMV receives your envelope. Your new license arrives by mail after approval. During this time, you can still drive on your current license as long as it has not yet expired. If your license has already expired, you should not drive until your new license arrives.

By-mail renewal is a good option if you prefer not to go online or if you do not have a camera for a new photo. However, it is slower than online renewal and requires you to mail in your current license, which means you will not have it in your wallet during processing.

Renewing in person at the DMV

In-person renewal at your local DMV office is necessary if your state requires a new photo, if you have changed your name, if you want to update your address, or if you are not may be able to access for online or mail renewal. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (usually your Social Security card or a tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill or lease). Some states also require proof of citizenship or a birth certificate.

Check your state's DMV website for the specific documents needed, because requirements vary. Many DMV offices now let you schedule an appointment online, which reduces wait time. Walk-in service is usually available but may mean a longer wait. The renewal fee is the same as online or mail renewal. You receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your new plastic license arrives by mail in 7 to 14 days.

What to do if your license has already expired

If your license has expired, you can still renew it through any of the three methods above — online, by mail, or in person. However, you cannot legally drive until your new license arrives. Some states allow you to drive to the DMV office for an in-person renewal appointment if you have scheduled one in advance, but you should not drive otherwise.

If your license has been expired for a very long time (usually more than 1 to 3 years, depending on your state), you may need to retake the written test or driving test, or both. Check your state's DMV website to see whether your license is considered "too old to renew" or whether you can renew it normally. If you do need to retake a test, you will have to schedule an appointment at the DMV and bring the same documents you would need for a new license.

Fees and how long renewal takes

Renewal fees vary by state and by how many years you are renewing for. Most states charge between $30 and $100 for a 5 to 8 year renewal. Some states charge less for shorter renewals. A few states offer discounts if you renew online. Check your state's DMV website for the exact fee before you start.

Processing time depends on your method. Online renewal is fastest: you get approval in minutes and your license arrives in 7 to 14 days. By-mail renewal takes 2 to 4 weeks from receipt. In-person renewal gives you a temporary license on the spot and your plastic license in 7 to 14 days. During busy seasons, processing may take longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive after my license expires while I wait for my new one?

If you have submitted your renewal online or by mail before your license expired, most states let you drive on your current license until your new one arrives. If your license has already expired, you cannot legally drive. Check your state's DMV website for the exact rule.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You must renew in person at the DMV and bring a document that shows your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Online and by-mail renewal do not allow name changes.

Do I have to retake the written test when I renew?

No, most states do not require a written or driving test for renewal. However, if your license has been expired for several years, or if you have certain medical conditions, your state may require you to retake the test. Check your state's DMV website.

What happens if I let my license expire and then get pulled over?

Driving with an expired license is illegal and can result in a traffic ticket, fine, or both. The penalty varies by state. It is best to renew before your expiration date or as soon as you realize it has expired.

Can I renew my license if it was suspended or revoked?

No. You must first contact your state's DMV to find out why it was suspended or revoked and what steps you need to take to restore it. Renewal is not possible until the suspension or revocation is lifted.