How to Renew Your Texas Driver's License

Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your Texas driver's license in person at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, or online through the Texas DPS website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route takes about 20 to 30 minutes once you're called; online renewal takes a few minutes but only works if your license hasn't been suspended, you're not changing your address, and your license isn't more than two years expired.

For either method, you'll need to bring your current driver's license or ID card. If you're renewing in person, bring it with you. If you're renewing online, you'll use the number from it to start the process. You'll also need to provide your Social Security number and answer security questions about your driving history and personal information.

If your license is more than two years expired, suspended, or if you're changing your address, you must renew in person at a DPS office. The same applies if you want to change your name, add or remove restrictions, or update your organ donor status.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal works only if your license is current or less than two years expired, not suspended, and you're keeping the same address.
In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license is more than two years expired, suspended, or if you're changing your address or name.
You'll need your current license number and Social Security number for either method.
Texas driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.

Renewing online through the Texas DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS online renewal portal at dps.texas.gov and select the renewal option. You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will ask you security questions based on your driving record and personal history — answer them accurately, as incorrect answers will end the session.

Once you've verified your identity, you'll confirm your address and other information on your license. If everything is correct, you'll pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card. Texas charges $61 for an eight-year renewal. After payment, you'll receive a confirmation number and a temporary digital license you can use when ready on your phone.

Your physical license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you don't receive it within that window, contact the DPS to check the status using your confirmation number.

Renewing in person at a DPS office

Find your nearest DPS office using the office locator on dps.texas.gov. You can schedule an appointment online, which is faster than walking in, though some offices still accept walk-ins. Appointments are usually available within a few days, and you can book one for a time that works for you.

Bring your current driver's license, Social Security number (you can write it on a form at the office if you don't have it memorized), and proof of your current address if you're changing it. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If you're not changing your address, you don't need proof.

At the office, you'll have your photo taken, answer a few questions, and pay the renewal fee. The process takes 20 to 30 minutes from the time you're called. You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your permanent license is mailed to you, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

What happens if your license is suspended or expired more than two years

If your license is suspended, you cannot renew it online or by mail. You must go to a DPS office in person. Bring your current license, proof of your address if you've moved, and be prepared to discuss the reason for the suspension — whether it's unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or a medical issue.

The DPS office will tell you what you need to do to clear the suspension before your license can be renewed. This might mean paying outstanding fines, providing a medical clearance, or completing a defensive driving course. Until the suspension is lifted, you cannot legally drive.

If your license expired more than two years ago, you also must renew in person. Bring the same documents as for a standard in-person renewal. The process is the same, but the DPS may ask additional questions about why your license lapsed for so long.

Changing your address during renewal

If you've moved since your last license was issued, you must update your address during renewal. You cannot do this online — you must renew in person at a DPS office. Bring proof of your new address: a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

At the office, tell the staff member that you're changing your address. They'll update it in the system, print it on your new license, and the rest of the process is the same. Your temporary paper license will show your new address, and your permanent license will arrive by mail at that new address within 7 to 10 business days.

Renewing before your license expires

You can renew your Texas driver's license up to one year before it expires. This is useful if you're planning a trip or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. The renewal process is exactly the same whether you're renewing early or on time — you'll pay the same fee and receive a license valid for eight years from the date of renewal.

If you renew early, your new expiration date will be eight years from the renewal date, not eight years from your old expiration date. For example, if your license expires in March 2025 and you renew in January 2025, your new license will expire in January 2033.

What to do if you don't receive your license by mail

Your renewed license should arrive within 7 to 10 business days of your renewal. If you renewed online, you received a confirmation number; if you renewed in person, you received a temporary paper license with a number on it. Keep this number.

If your license doesn't arrive within 10 business days, contact the DPS using your confirmation or temporary license number. You can call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 or visit a DPS office with your temporary license. They can check the status of your renewal and reissue your license if it was lost in the mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas license if I live out of state?

If you're a Texas resident living temporarily out of state, you can renew online if your license meets the online renewal requirements. If you need to renew in person, you'll need to visit a Texas DPS office during a trip home, or you can mail in a renewal process — contact the DPS for the form and instructions.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You cannot renew online if your name has changed. You must renew in person at a DPS office and bring a document showing your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DPS will update your name and issue a new license.

Do I need to take a new photo for renewal?

Yes, whether you renew online or in person, a new photo will be taken. If you renew online, the system uses your device's camera. If you renew in person, the DPS office takes your photo on-site.

What if I lost my license and need to renew it?

If your license is lost, you'll need to replace it rather than renew it. Visit a DPS office with proof of identity and address, and they'll issue a replacement. You can renew at the same time if your license is also expired.

How much does it cost to renew a Texas driver's license?

A standard eight-year renewal costs $61. If you're renewing online or in person, the fee is the same. Some DPS offices may accept cash, check, or card; online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only.

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.