Where to renew your Missouri driver's license
You can renew your Missouri driver's license in person at any Missouri Department of Revenue office, or online through the Missouri Secretary of State website if you meet certain conditions. The online option is faster — you can complete it from home in about 10 minutes — but it is only open to people whose licenses are not expired and who do not need to update their address, name, or other personal information.
If your license has already expired, you must renew in person. The same applies if you need to change your address, correct your name, or update your photo. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes at a typical office, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
To find the Department of Revenue office nearest you, visit the Missouri Secretary of State website and search for "driver license office locations." The site shows hours, addresses, and which services each location offers.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired and you have no personal information changes, and it costs less than in-person renewal.
- In-person renewal is required if your license has expired, or if you need to change your address, name, or photo.
- You will need your current license, proof of residency, and payment — the amount depends on whether you choose a standard or REAL ID license.
- Missouri driver's licenses are valid for six years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
- If you renew online, your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
What documents you need to bring
For in-person renewal, bring your current Missouri driver's license and one document that proves your current address. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A government-issued ID showing your current address also works.
If you are renewing online, you do not need to bring anything — you will upload a photo and answer security questions on the website. The system will verify your identity using information from your existing license record.
If you have changed your name since your last license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. This applies whether you renew in person or online.
Cost and payment options
A standard Missouri driver's license renewal costs $13.50 if you renew online, or $24.50 if you renew in person. A REAL ID-compliant license costs $24.50 online or $35.50 in person. REAL ID is required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building, but a standard license is sufficient for driving and most other purposes.
At a Department of Revenue office, you can pay with cash, debit card, or credit card. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only. Some offices also accept checks, but call ahead to confirm.
Timeline for renewal and when to start
Missouri allows you to renew your driver's license up to one year before it expires. If you renew online, your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you renew in person, you receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
The temporary paper license is valid for driving while you wait for your plastic card. You should renew at least two weeks before your license expires if you are renewing by mail, to may support your new license arrives in time. If your license has already expired, you can still renew, but you must do so in person.
Renewing if your license is expired
If your Missouri driver's license has been expired for less than five years, you can renew it using the standard process — in person at a Department of Revenue office. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and payment. You will need to retake your photo, and the office may ask you to pass a vision test.
If your license expired more than five years ago, you must explore for a new license rather than renewing. This requires a written test and a driving test, in addition to the vision test and photo. Contact your local Department of Revenue office to schedule these tests.
REAL ID versus standard license
A REAL ID-compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. You need REAL ID to board a domestic airplane, enter a military base, or access certain federal buildings. A standard Missouri driver's license does not have this star and does not meet federal requirements for these purposes.
If you already have a REAL ID license, your renewal will automatically be REAL ID unless you specifically request a standard license instead. If you have a standard license and want to upgrade to REAL ID during renewal, you must bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate or passport, in addition to your proof of residency. This document is not required for standard license renewal.
What to do if you cannot renew online
If the online system tells you that you cannot renew online, it is usually because your license is expired, or because your address, name, or other information has changed since your last renewal. In these cases, you must visit a Department of Revenue office in person.
You can also call the Missouri Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407 to ask why your account is not may be able to access for online renewal. They can sometimes resolve the issue over the phone, or they can tell you what documents to bring to an office visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license by mail?
No, Missouri does not offer mail-in renewal. You can renew online or in person at a Department of Revenue office. Online renewal is the closest option to mail renewal — you complete it from home and your new license arrives by mail.
What happens if I drive with an expired license?
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Missouri and can result in a traffic citation, fine, or both. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you may be asked to show proof that you have renewed or that your renewal is in progress. If your license expired less than 60 days ago, some officers may issue a warning instead of a citation.
Do I need an appointment to renew in person?
Most Missouri Department of Revenue offices do not require appointments for license renewal, but some locations do during busy times. Check the office locator on the Missouri Secretary of State website to see if your local office takes appointments, or call ahead to ask about wait times.
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?
Yes, an outstanding traffic ticket or fine does not prevent you from renewing your license. However, if you have an unpaid child support obligation, your license renewal may be suspended. Contact the Missouri Department of Revenue or the Missouri Family Support Division if you are unsure about your status.
What if I lose my license before the new one arrives?
If you lose your temporary paper license or your plastic license is lost in the mail, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue when ready. They can issue a replacement or reprint your temporary license. You may be charged a replacement fee.