What a horizontal license is and why you might need one
A horizontal driver's license is the standard format most states issue — the card is wider than it is tall, like a credit card turned sideways. If you currently hold a vertical license (taller than it is wide), you may want to switch to horizontal format for practical reasons: it fits standard wallet slots better, and some card readers are optimized for the horizontal orientation.
The process to get a horizontal license varies by state. Some states issue horizontal licenses automatically when you renew. Others require you to request the format change specifically, either in person at the DMV or through an online portal. A few states do not offer a choice — they issue one format exclusively.
You do not need a legal reason to request a horizontal license. It is purely a format preference, and the license itself carries the same legal weight and information as a vertical one.
Key Takeaways
- Most states issue horizontal licenses by default during renewal, but some require you to request the format when you explore.
- You can usually request a format change at your state's DMV office in person, by mail, or through the online portal if your state offers one.
- The cost is typically the same as a standard license renewal, though some states charge a small fee for a format change outside of renewal.
- Processing time ranges from one to three weeks depending on whether you explore in person or by mail.
Check your state's current policy on license format
Before you visit the DMV or go online, confirm what your state actually offers. Visit your state's DMV website and search for "license format" or "vertical vs. horizontal license." Some states have a dedicated page explaining the options; others bury the information in the renewal section.
If the website does not make it clear, call your state's DMV customer service line. Have your driver's license number ready. Ask three specific things: whether your state offers both formats, whether you can choose during renewal, and whether there is a fee for requesting a format change outside of renewal.
Write down the answer and the name of the person who told you. If you end up at a DMV office and staff give you conflicting information, you have a record of what you were told.
Request a format change during license renewal
The easiest time to switch to a horizontal license is when your current license expires and you are renewing anyway. The renewal fee covers the new card, regardless of format.
If your state offers online renewal, log into the DMV portal using your driver's license number and date of birth. Look for a section labeled "license format," "card orientation," or "license design." Select horizontal. Complete the rest of the renewal process, pay the renewal fee, and submit. You will receive a confirmation number and an estimated delivery date — usually one to three weeks.
If your state does not offer online renewal, or if you prefer to renew in person, visit a DMV office. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (a recent utility bill or lease works), and your Social Security number. Tell the staff member you want to renew and request a horizontal format. They will process the renewal and take a new photo if required. Ask for a receipt showing the format you requested.
Request a format change outside of renewal
If your license is not expiring soon and you want a horizontal license now, you can request a format change between renewals. This is sometimes called a "duplicate license" or "replacement license" request, depending on your state.
Some states allow this through an online portal. Log in, select "request duplicate license" or "format change," choose horizontal, and pay the fee (usually $10 to $25). Others require you to visit a DMV office in person and fill out a form. A few states do not allow format changes outside of renewal — in those cases, you must wait until your renewal date.
Processing time for a between-renewal format change is typically one to two weeks if you request it online, or same-day to one week if you do it in person at the office.
What to bring to the DMV if you go in person
If you are requesting a horizontal license at a DMV office, bring these documents:
- Your current driver's license
- Proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days)
- Your Social Security number (you may need to bring your Social Security card or a document showing it)
- A completed process form if your state requires one (check the DMV website to see if you can print it ahead of time)
You do not need to bring anything else. The DMV will take a new photo as part of the process. Arrive early — DMV offices often have long waits, and some states limit the number of people served per day.
Understand the timeline and what happens next
After you request a horizontal license, the DMV will mail it to the address on file. The timeline depends on how you applied:
Online request: One to three weeks from submission. You will receive a confirmation email with a tracking number or estimated delivery date.
In-person request: One to two weeks from the date you applied. Some offices issue a temporary paper license you can use when ready while the card is being printed.
Mail-in request: Two to four weeks from the date the DMV receives your process. Mail times vary by state and distance.
Your new horizontal license will have the same expiration date as your old one if you requested the format change during renewal. If you requested it between renewals, the new license will have a new expiration date (usually five to eight years from the issue date, depending on your state).
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my horizontal license have a different expiration date than my vertical one?
Only if you request the format change outside of renewal. If you switch formats during renewal, the expiration date stays the same. If you request a format change between renewals, you will receive a new license with a new expiration date, typically five to eight years out.
Can I request a horizontal license if my current license is suspended or revoked?
No. You must have a valid, active license to request a format change. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew or change the format until the suspension or revocation is lifted.
What if I move to a different state — do I keep my horizontal license?
Your old horizontal license remains valid for identification purposes until it expires, but you cannot use it to drive legally in your new state. You will need to obtain a license from your new state. When you explore for the new state's license, you can request horizontal format if that state offers it.
Is there a fee for changing from vertical to horizontal?
If you change the format during renewal, there is no extra fee — you pay the standard renewal cost. If you request a format change outside of renewal, most states charge $10 to $25 for a replacement license. A few states do not charge a fee for format changes. Check your state's DMV website or call to confirm.
Can I request a horizontal license by phone or email?
Most states do not allow phone or email requests. You must explore online through the DMV portal, by mail with a completed form, or in person at a DMV office. Check your state's website to see which methods are available.