Missouri driver's licenses expire on your birthday and can be renewed online, by mail, or in person starting 180 days before expiration
Your Missouri driver's license expires on your birthday in the year printed on the card. The state issues six-year licenses to drivers under 70 and eight-year licenses to drivers 70 and older. You can renew starting 180 days before your expiration date. The easiest route for most people is the online renewal system at dmv.mo.gov, which takes about 10 minutes and costs $13.50 for a six-year license or $18 for an eight-year license. If you cannot renew online, you can renew by mail or visit a Missouri Department of Revenue office in person.
Renewal is different from replacement. If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must replace it in person rather than renew it. Renewal is for a license that is still valid and in your possession.
Key Takeaways
- Missouri driver's licenses expire on your birthday and can be renewed online, by mail, or in person starting 180 days before expiration.
- Online renewal at dmv.mo.gov is the fastest option if your address has not changed and you have no medical restrictions or violations to report.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send your current license, a completed form, and a check to the Department of Revenue.
- In-person renewal at a local office is required if you need a new photo, have changed your address, or cannot renew online for any reason.
- You will need proof of residency such as a utility bill or lease if you have moved since your last license was issued.
Online renewal through the Missouri DMV website
The Missouri Department of Revenue's online system at dmv.mo.gov is the fastest way to renew if you meet the requirements. You can renew online if your address has not changed, you have no medical conditions to report, you have no outstanding traffic violations or suspensions, and your license is not damaged or lost. The system asks for your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.
Once you complete the online form, you pay the renewal fee by debit or credit card. The state mails your new license to the address on file, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need to change your address, add a Real ID designation, or report a medical condition, you cannot use the online system and must renew in person or by mail.
Mail renewal and what to send
To renew by mail, read the DL 43 form from dmv.mo.gov or request one by calling the Department of Revenue at 573-526-2407. Fill out the form completely, including your current address and any changes to your name, height, or other information. Enclose your current driver's license, a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail everything to the address listed on the form.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the Department of Revenue receives your packet. Send your materials early if your license is expiring soon, because the state will not process your renewal until they receive the physical documents. Keep a copy of what you send in case there are questions. If you have moved and need to update your address, include a copy of proof of residency such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
In-person renewal at a Missouri Department of Revenue office
Visit a local Department of Revenue office if you need a new photo, have changed your address, or cannot renew online or by mail. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency if you have moved, and payment for the renewal fee. You can find office locations and hours at dmv.mo.gov. Most offices do not require an appointment, but some locations accept walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis. Call ahead to confirm hours and whether your local office is currently accepting renewals.
In-person renewal is completed the same day you visit. The office takes a new photo, updates your information in the system, and issues a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed to you. This temporary license allows you to drive legally until your new card arrives, which usually takes 7 to 10 business days.
Real ID and what it means for your renewal
Missouri offers both standard driver's licenses and Real ID-compliant licenses. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal identification standards for entering federal buildings, military bases, and boarding domestic flights. If you want to add Real ID to your license during renewal, you must renew in person or by mail—you cannot add it through the online system.
To get a Real ID license, bring your current license, proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2), and two forms of proof of residency. The fee is the same as a standard renewal. If you do not add Real ID during this renewal, you can add it at your next renewal or visit an office specifically to upgrade.
What happens if your license expires before you renew
If your license expires before your new one arrives, you can still drive legally if you have proof that you submitted a renewal process. Keep a copy of your online renewal confirmation, mail receipt, or office visit receipt with you while driving. If you are stopped by police, show them the proof of renewal along with your expired license. Missouri law allows this grace period while your new license is in the mail.
However, do not wait until your license expires to start the renewal process. Begin online or by mail at least three weeks before your expiration date to avoid any gap. If your license has already expired and you did not submit a renewal, you cannot legally drive and must renew when ready in person at a Department of Revenue office.
Renewal fees and payment methods
A six-year driver's license renewal costs $13.50. An eight-year renewal for drivers 70 and older costs $18. Online renewal accepts debit and credit cards. Mail renewal requires a check or money order made payable to the Missouri Department of Revenue. In-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at most offices, though payment methods may vary by location.
If you are renewing in person and need to make changes such as adding Real ID or updating your address, there may be additional fees. Ask at your local office about the total cost before you visit if you are making changes beyond a standard renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Missouri license if I have moved out of state?
No. You must be a Missouri resident to hold a Missouri driver's license. If you have moved to another state, you need to get a license from your new state of residence. Contact that state's Department of Motor Vehicles to learn about their requirements and process.
What if my name has changed since my last license?
If you changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a certified copy of the document proving the change when you renew in person. You can also mail a copy with your renewal process. Online renewal does not allow name changes, so you must renew by mail or in person.
Do I need a new photo every time I renew?
No. Missouri allows you to keep the same photo for up to two consecutive renewals. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person. If you renew online or by mail, your current photo is used on your new license.
How long can I drive on an expired license while waiting for my renewal?
You can drive legally only if you have proof that you submitted a renewal process before your license expired. Once your license expires and you have not applied for renewal, you cannot legally drive. Keep your renewal confirmation or receipt with you while driving.
What if I lose my license before it expires?
You cannot renew a lost license. Instead, you must replace it by visiting a Department of Revenue office in person with proof of identity and residency. Replacement is different from renewal and may have different fees and requirements.