How to Renew Your California Driver's License

California driver's license renewal basics

California lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. Which method you can use depends on how much time is left before your license expires, whether you need to update your photo, and what type of license you hold. Most people can renew without taking a new written or driving test.

Your current license shows an expiration date in the upper right corner. California sends renewal notices about 60 days before that date, though you do not have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to six months before expiration.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the DMV website works for most standard driver's licenses if you renew within six months of expiration and do not need a new photo.
Mail renewal takes about two weeks and costs less than in-person renewal, but you cannot update your photo or address this way.
In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if your license is expired by more than six months, if you need a new photo, or if you hold a commercial license.
You will need your current license, proof of California residency, and payment by debit card, credit card, or check — cash is not accepted online or by mail.
A renewed license is valid for five years from the issue date, except for drivers over 70, whose licenses expire every two years.

Online renewal through the DMV website

The California DMV website at dmv.ca.gov offers online renewal for most standard driver's licenses. You can renew this way if your license is not yet expired and you do not need to change your photo. The process takes about 10 minutes and you receive a temporary digital license when ready that you can use while your physical card arrives by mail.

To renew online, you will need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a debit or credit card for payment. The DMV charges a renewal fee (the exact amount varies but is typically under $70 for a five-year renewal). You will receive your new physical license by mail within two weeks.

Online renewal does not let you update your address, change your photo, or add or remove restrictions. If you need any of those changes, you must renew in person at a DMV office.

Mail renewal by sending documents to the DMV

You can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you do not need a new photo. The DMV provides a renewal form (DL 44) that comes with your renewal notice, or you can read it from dmv.ca.gov. Fill out the form, include your current license, a check or money order for the renewal fee, and proof of California residency (such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days).

Mail your packet to the address shown on the renewal notice or listed on the DMV website. Processing takes about two weeks. Mail renewal is cheaper than in-person renewal because you avoid the DMV office fee, but you cannot update your photo or address this way.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than six months, if you need a new photo, if you are changing your address, or if you hold a commercial driver's license. Bring your current license, proof of California residency, and payment by debit card, credit card, or check. The DMV office will take your photo and issue a temporary license on the spot.

Wait times at DMV offices vary widely by location and time of day. You can check current wait times and book an appointment on dmv.ca.gov. Booking an appointment does not may provide a specific wait time but typically reduces it. Walk-ins are accepted but may wait longer.

In-person renewal costs more than mail or online renewal because of the office service fee. The total fee is typically under $80 for a five-year renewal, though the exact amount depends on your license type and whether you are adding endorsements.

What happens if your license is expired

If your license expired more than six months ago, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must go to a DMV office in person. Bring the same documents as for a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and payment.

Driving with an expired license is illegal in California, even if you have already started the renewal process. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you can show proof that you have submitted a renewal process, but that does not remove the violation. Renew as soon as possible to avoid fines or other penalties.

Driver's license renewal for people over 70

California requires drivers age 70 and older to renew their licenses every two years instead of every five years. You can still use online or mail renewal if your license is not yet expired and you do not need a new photo. The renewal fee is the same as for younger drivers.

Drivers over 70 do not have to take a written or driving test to renew, but the DMV may ask you to pass a vision test or provide a medical report from your doctor. The DMV will tell you if this is required when you begin your renewal.

Commercial driver's license renewal

Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) cannot be renewed online or by mail. You must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring your current CDL, proof of residency, and payment. You will need to pass a vision test and may need to pass a written test depending on your endorsements and how long it has been since your last renewal.

CDL renewal fees are higher than standard license renewal. The exact cost depends on your endorsements and whether you are renewing or upgrading your license class. Check dmv.ca.gov or call your local DMV office for the current fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my California driver's license if I moved out of state?

No. You must hold a valid California address to renew a California license. If you have moved out of state, you need to get a driver's license from your new state instead. You can surrender your California license to the DMV by mail or in person.

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

You cannot renew online or by mail without your current license. You must go to a DMV office in person and report the lost license. The DMV will issue a replacement license at the same time. Bring proof of identity and California residency. There is an additional fee for a replacement license beyond the renewal fee.

How long does it take to receive my renewed license by mail?

The DMV typically mails renewed licenses within two weeks of processing your process. Delivery time depends on your location and the postal service. If you do not receive your license within three weeks, contact the DMV to check the status of your renewal.

Can I change my name or address during renewal?

You can change your address online or by mail, but you cannot change your name through renewal. To change your name on your license, you must go to a DMV office in person and bring a certified copy of a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing the name change.

What if my renewal is denied?

The DMV may deny renewal if you have unpaid traffic fines, an active suspension, or medical issues that affect your ability to drive. The DMV will send you a notice explaining why your renewal was denied and what steps you need to take. Contact your local DMV office or call 1-800-777-0133 to learn what you need to do next.

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.