Where to renew and what documents you need

You can renew your Texas driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, by mail, or online through the DPS website — but not all renewal types work for all three methods. The fastest route is online if you're renewing a standard license that hasn't expired more than two years ago and you don't need to change your address or other information. Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks. In-person renewal at a DPS office typically means a wait, but you walk out with a temporary license the same day.

For any renewal method, you'll need to bring or provide your current Texas driver's license number. If you're renewing in person, bring a photo ID (your current license counts), proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number. If you're renewing by mail, you'll mail in your current license along with the renewal process form DL-44, available on the DPS website.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal works only if your license expired less than two years ago, you don't need to change your address, and you have no medical restrictions or name changes to process.
  • Mail renewal requires you to send your current license and a completed DL-44 form to the DPS address listed on the form, and takes two to three weeks.
  • In-person renewal at a DPS office is the only option if your license has been expired more than two years or if you need to update your address, medical information, or other details.
  • Texas driver's licenses are valid for eight years, so you'll renew once every eight years unless you choose the five-year option when you renew.

Online renewal through the DPS website

Visit the Texas DPS website and select the online renewal option. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and confirm you're may be able to access to renew online. If you pass the verification, you'll pay the renewal fee (currently $16 for an eight-year license or $11 for a five-year license) by credit or debit card.

After you complete the online transaction, the DPS will mail your new license to the address on file. The process takes about 7 to 10 business days from submission to mailing. You won't receive a temporary license, so if you need to drive before your new license arrives, you'll need to renew in person instead or carry your current license until the new one arrives.

Mail renewal and what to send

read or request the DL-44 form from the DPS website. Fill it out completely, including your current license number, signature, and any changes to your address or other information. Mail your current license and the completed form to the address shown on the form — this address varies by region, so check the form itself rather than relying on a general DPS address.

Include a check or money order for the renewal fee payable to "Texas Department of Public Safety." Do not send cash. Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the DPS receives your materials. You can track the status of your renewal by visiting the DPS website and entering your license number, though the tracking system updates only periodically.

In-person renewal at a DPS office

Find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now use an appointment system. Check the office's page to see whether you need to schedule ahead or whether you can arrive without one. Bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days), and be ready to provide your Social Security number.

The DPS will take a new photo and process your renewal on the spot. You'll pay the fee in cash, by check, or by card, depending on the office. You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail, which usually takes one to two weeks. This is the only renewal method that gives you a valid document to drive with when ready.

When your license has been expired more than two years

If your Texas license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it — you must reapply as if getting a new license. This means you'll need to visit a DPS office in person, pass a written knowledge test and a driving test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. The process is the same as a first-time license process, not a straightforward renewal.

Schedule an appointment at your local DPS office as soon as possible, because testing appointments can fill up weeks in advance. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and a photo ID. You'll also need to bring proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). Budget at least two hours for the appointment, and plan to take the written test and driving test on the same day if the office offers it.

Changing your address or other information during renewal

If you're renewing online, you cannot change your address or other personal information — the online system only works for straightforward renewals with no changes. If you need to update your address, you must renew in person at a DPS office or by mail using the DL-44 form and noting the change clearly on the form.

For in-person renewal, tell the DPS employee about any changes when you arrive. They'll update your information in the system and print it on your new license. For mail renewal, write the new information on the DL-44 form and include proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within 90 days). The DPS will process the change along with your renewal.

Renewal fees and payment methods

A standard eight-year Texas driver's license renewal costs $16. If you choose a five-year license instead, the fee is $11. These fees are current as of 2024 but may change — check the DPS website to confirm the current amount before you submit payment.

For online renewal, you pay by credit or debit card. For mail renewal, send a check or money order made out to "Texas Department of Public Safety." For in-person renewal, most offices accept cash, check, and card, though some may have restrictions — call ahead if you want to confirm payment methods at your specific office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or warrant?

The DPS will not process a renewal if you have an active warrant or certain outstanding traffic violations. The system will flag your record during the renewal process. Contact the court or law enforcement agency listed on your ticket to resolve the issue before attempting to renew again.

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 documentation of the name change (a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The DPS will update your name and issue a new license with the correct information.

How long does a Texas driver's license last?

A standard Texas driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. You can choose a five-year license instead when you renew, which costs less but requires you to renew more often. The expiration date is printed on the front of your license.

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

If your license is lost, you'll need to report it to the DPS and request a replacement, not a renewal. Visit a DPS office in person with proof of identity and residency. The DPS will issue a replacement license with the same expiration date as your original license. You can renew it when that date arrives.

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your Texas license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early doesn't change your expiration date — your new license will expire eight years from the date you renew it, not from the date your old license would have expired. Plan your renewal timing accordingly if you want to avoid overlapping expiration dates.