Where and how to renew your Texas driver's license
You can renew your Texas driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have, and whether you need to update your photo or address.
Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements: your license must not be expired by more than two years, you must have a valid Texas address on file, and you cannot have any medical or vision restrictions that need updating. You renew through the Texas DPS website, pay the fee with a credit or debit card, and receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
By-mail renewal works if your license expired less than two years ago and you do not need a new photo. You mail your current license, a completed Form DL-44, and the renewal fee to the address shown on the form. Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks.
In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need a new photo, if you have moved and need to update your address, or if you want to change your name. You bring your current license, proof of residency, and payment. You will have your new license the same day.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal takes 7 to 10 business days and works only if your license expired less than two years ago and you have no medical restrictions.
- Mail renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks and requires your current license, Form DL-44, and the renewal fee sent to the DPS address.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office is the only option if your license expired more than two years ago or if you need a new photo.
- The renewal fee is the same regardless of method, but in-person renewal gives you your new license when ready.
What documents you need for in-person renewal
If you renew in person, bring your current driver's license and one document that proves your current Texas address. Acceptable address documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 30 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works if it shows your name and address.
If you are renewing after your license has expired for more than two years, you will also need to pass a vision test at the DPS office. You do not need to bring anything for this—the DPS staff will administer it on site. If you wear glasses or contacts for driving, bring them with you.
If you have changed your name since your last license was issued, bring a document that proves the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are a non-citizen, bring your passport or travel document along with your current license.
The cost of renewing your Texas driver's license
A standard five-year renewal costs $25. If you are 85 years old or older, your renewal is free. Military members on active duty and their spouses can renew for free as well, though you will need to show military identification or a military dependent ID.
If you renew online or by mail, you pay the fee at the time you submit your renewal. If you renew in person, you can pay by cash, check, or card at the DPS office. Some offices accept card payments only—call ahead to confirm what your local office takes.
When your license expires and how much time you have
Your Texas driver's license expires on your birthday in the year shown on the front of your card. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, which gives you a long window to complete the process without rush.
If your license has already expired, you can still renew it, but your options narrow. Expired licenses can be renewed online only if they expired less than two years ago. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a DPS office.
Driving on an expired license is illegal in Texas, even if you have submitted a renewal request. If you are stopped by police, you can show proof that you have applied for renewal, but this does not prevent a citation. Renew before your birthday or as soon as you notice your license has expired.
Online renewal step by step
Go to the Texas DPS website and select the online renewal option. You will need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and pull up your current license information.
Review your name, address, and other details on screen. If everything is correct, you can proceed to payment. If your address has changed, you cannot complete the online renewal—you must renew by mail or in person instead.
Pay the $25 renewal fee with a Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover card. You will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
Find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website. Many offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment holders are usually seen first.
Bring your current license, proof of your current address, and your payment method. If your license expired more than two years ago, arrive prepared to take a vision test. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and you will receive your new license before you leave.
If you need to update your photo because your appearance has changed significantly, you can request a new photo at the office. The DPS will take a new photo as part of your renewal, and there is no extra charge for this.
What happens if you let your license expire
Driving with an expired license is a traffic violation in Texas. If you are stopped, you can receive a citation, which carries a fine. The fine amount depends on how long your license has been expired and whether you have prior violations.
An expired license also affects your ability to rent a car, board a plane, or use it as proof of identity for age-restricted purchases. If your license has been expired for a long time, you may need to take a written driving test and a vision test when you renew, not just a vision test.
If you are unsure whether your license is still valid, check the expiration date on the front of your card. Your birthday is the expiration date. If you have passed that date, your license is expired and you should renew when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas driver's license if I have moved out of state?
No. You must have a valid Texas address to renew your license in Texas. If you have moved to another state, you will need to get a driver's license from that state instead. Contact your new state's DMV or equivalent agency for their renewal process.
How long does it take to get my new license if I renew online?
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete your online renewal. This does not include weekends or holidays. You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait for the new one to arrive.
What if I need my license before the mail renewal arrives?
Renew in person at a DPS office instead. You will receive your new license the same day. If you cannot get to an office quickly, you can request a temporary paper license at the office, which is valid for 45 days while you wait for your permanent card to arrive by mail.
Do I need an appointment to renew my license in person?
Appointments are not required, but they are recommended. You can schedule an appointment on the Texas DPS website to reduce your wait time. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait longer during busy hours.
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket?
Yes. An outstanding traffic ticket does not prevent you from renewing your license. However, if you have an unpaid fine related to your license suspension, you may need to resolve that before you can renew. Contact the court that issued the ticket if you are unsure.