Texas driver's license renewal costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license
The fee you pay depends on which license type you choose. A standard four-year renewal costs $16. If you want an eight-year license, you'll pay $32. These are the base renewal fees set by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). You may also encounter additional charges if you need a duplicate, a corrected license, or if you're renewing by mail rather than in person.
The eight-year license is more expensive upfront but spreads the cost across a longer period. Most people renew in person at a DPS office or an authorized county tax assessor-collector's office, where you pay the fee directly. If you renew online through the Texas DPS website, you'll pay the same fee plus a $1 online processing charge.
Key Takeaways
- A four-year Texas driver's license renewal costs $16, and an eight-year renewal costs $32, with no additional state fee for standard renewals.
- You can renew online for a $1 processing fee if your license is not expired and you meet other DPS requirements, or renew in person at a DPS office or county tax assessor-collector's office.
- If you need a duplicate license, a name change, or a corrected address, you may pay an additional fee beyond the standard renewal cost.
- Some counties charge a service fee on top of the state renewal fee when you renew at a tax assessor-collector's office, so call ahead to confirm the total cost.
When you renew in person versus online
Renewing in person at a DPS office costs the same as renewing online — $16 or $32 depending on your license length — but you avoid the $1 online fee. However, in-person renewal requires an appointment, and wait times vary by location. You'll need to bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
Online renewal through the Texas DPS website is faster if you're may be able to access. You can renew online if your license is not expired, you have a valid Social Security number on file, and you have no medical conditions that require a vision test or a medical review. The online process takes about 10 minutes, and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You'll pay $16 or $32 plus the $1 online processing fee.
If your license is already expired, you cannot renew online and must go in person. The same applies if you need to update your address, change your name, or correct other information on your license.
County tax assessor-collector offices and service fees
Many Texas counties allow you to renew your driver's license at the county tax assessor-collector's office instead of a DPS office. The state renewal fee remains $16 or $32, but the tax assessor-collector's office may charge an additional service fee. This fee varies by county and is not set by the state — it goes to the county, not to DPS.
Some counties charge $2 to $5 on top of the state fee. Others charge nothing. You won't know the total cost until you contact your county office or arrive in person. Call your county tax assessor-collector's office before you go to confirm whether they charge a service fee and what the total will be.
Extra costs for duplicates, corrections, and name changes
If you need a duplicate license because yours was lost or stolen, the cost is $11 in addition to any renewal fee. If you're renewing and requesting a duplicate at the same time, you'll pay both fees. A corrected license — issued when DPS finds an error on your current license — costs $11.
If you're changing your name during renewal, you'll need to provide a certified copy of a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. There is no additional fee for a name change during renewal, but you must do it in person. You cannot change your name online.
What documents you need to bring
For in-person renewal, bring your current Texas driver's license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days. Proof of Social Security number can be your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form.
If you're renewing after your license has expired, you may need to pass a vision test. If you're over 79 years old, you must renew in person and may need to pass a driving test. Bring your glasses or contacts if you use them for driving.
Renewing by mail
Texas does not offer standard mail-in renewal for driver's licenses. However, if you are a U.S. citizen living outside Texas, you may be able to renew by mail through the Texas DPS. You'll need to request an process form from DPS, complete it, and mail it back with the required documents and payment. The cost is the same as in-person renewal — $16 or $32 — but processing takes longer, typically 4 to 6 weeks.
If you are a Texas resident living in the state, you must renew in person or online. Mail-in renewal is not an option for you.
Payment methods and where your money goes
At a DPS office or tax assessor-collector's office, you can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Online renewal requires a debit or credit card. The $16 or $32 you pay goes to the Texas Department of Public Safety to cover the cost of producing and mailing your license. Any additional county service fee goes to your county government.
You cannot pay your renewal fee online and then complete the rest of the process in person, or vice versa. You must choose one method and complete the entire renewal through that method.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay the full renewal fee if my license expires soon?
Yes. Texas does not offer prorated renewal fees. You pay the full $16 or $32 regardless of how much time remains on your current license. If your license is expiring within 60 days, you can renew early at the same cost.
What if I renew online but my license arrives damaged?
Contact the Texas DPS and request a replacement. You will not be charged an additional fee if the damage occurred during mailing or production. DPS will mail a new license at no cost.
Can I renew my license if I owe a traffic fine or child support?
No. If you owe a traffic fine, DPS will not renew your license until you pay it or set up a payment plan. If you owe child support, the Texas Attorney General's office can suspend your license. You must resolve these issues before you can renew.
Is there a discount for seniors or military members?
Texas does not offer a reduced renewal fee for seniors or military members. All drivers pay the same $16 or $32 fee. However, drivers 85 and older can renew for a four-year license at the standard $16 rate instead of paying for an eight-year license.
What happens if I renew online but later need to change my address?
You can update your address online through the Texas DPS website at no cost, as long as you're not changing your license class or other information. If you need to make other changes, you must visit a DPS office or tax assessor-collector's office in person.