Where to renew and what documents you need

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's website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route works for everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not had any address changes since your last renewal.

For an in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number. If your address has changed, you will also need to show proof of your new address. You do not need to bring your birth certificate or passport unless you are renewing for the first time after turning 16 in Missouri.

For online renewal, you will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your information against state records. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the Missouri Secretary of State's website is available only if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your address has not changed.
  • In-person renewal at any Department of Revenue office works for all situations and requires your current license, proof of residency, and Social Security number.
  • Missouri driver's licenses are valid for six years for drivers under 70 and four years for drivers 70 and older.
  • Renewal fees are $25 for a standard six-year license and $15 for a four-year license for drivers 70 and older.

How long Missouri licenses are valid

Your Missouri driver's license is valid for six years from the date of issue if you are under 70 years old. If you are 70 or older, your license is valid for four years. The expiration date is printed on the front of your license.

You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. Many people renew early to avoid the rush near their expiration date or to may support they have a valid license before a planned trip. There is no penalty for renewing early.

The cost of renewal in Missouri

A standard six-year driver's license renewal costs $25. If you are 70 or older and renewing for a four-year license, the cost is $15. These are the fees for a regular license; commercial driver's license (CDL) renewals have different pricing.

Payment methods vary by location. At Department of Revenue offices, you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. If you renew online, you will pay by credit or debit card. Some offices may accept other payment methods, so call ahead if you have questions about what your local office takes.

What happens if your license has already expired

If your license is expired, you cannot use the online renewal system. You must renew in person at a Department of Revenue office. Bring the same documents as you would for a regular renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Missouri, even if you have submitted a renewal process. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you could face a fine. The renewal process is the same whether your license expired last month or last year, so there is no additional penalty for the length of time it has been expired.

Department of Revenue office locations and hours

Missouri has Department of Revenue offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and its hours on the Missouri Secretary of State's website by entering your county or zip code. Hours vary by location; some offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, while others have extended evening or Saturday hours.

Wait times at busy locations can range from 15 minutes to over an hour, especially near the end of the month or close to expiration dates. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you plan your visit. Some offices accept walk-ins only, while others allow you to schedule an appointment online.

Renewing if you have changed your name or address

If you have changed your name since your last license was issued, you must renew in person and bring documentation of the name change. This includes a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or other official document showing the change. You cannot use online renewal for a name change.

If you have changed your address, you can renew online only if you have not moved. If you have moved, you must renew in person and bring proof of your new address. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 90 days and showing your new address.

What to do if you lose your license before renewal

If your license is lost or stolen before you renew it, you will need to replace it first. Go to any Department of Revenue office with proof of identity and proof of residency. The replacement fee is $25 for a six-year license. Once you have your replacement license, you can renew it normally when it expires, or you can renew it early if you prefer.

If your license is damaged but still readable, you can renew it in person at a Department of Revenue office. Bring the damaged license along with your other documents. The office staff will accept it as proof of identity even if it is worn or torn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Missouri license by mail?

No, Missouri does not offer mail-in renewal. You must renew either online through the Secretary of State's website or in person at a Department of Revenue office. Online renewal is the fastest option if you are not expired and have no address changes.

What if I need my license before the mail delivery arrives?

If you renew online, your new license will arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before it arrives, you can print a temporary license from the Secretary of State's website after you complete your online renewal. The temporary license is valid for 45 days and can be used while you wait for your physical license.

Do I need to take a new photo for renewal?

For online renewal, the system uses your photo from your current license, so you do not need a new one. If you renew in person, the Department of Revenue will take a new photo at the office. You cannot bring your own photo.

Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?

Yes, unpaid traffic tickets or fines do not prevent you from renewing your license. However, if you have an outstanding warrant or suspension on your driving record, your renewal may be delayed or denied. Contact the Department of Revenue or the court that issued the ticket to learn about there is a suspension on your record.

What if my Social Security number has changed?

If you have a new Social Security number since your last license was issued, you must renew in person at a Department of Revenue office. Bring your current license, proof of your new Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or letter from the Social Security Administration), and proof of residency.