What you'll pay to renew your Texas driver's license
A standard Texas driver's license renewal costs $25 if you renew by mail or online, or $16 if you renew in person at a DPS office. The difference exists because in-person renewals skip the mailing fee. If you're renewing a license that has been expired for more than two years, you'll pay the same amount but may need to take a new photo and pass a vision test, which doesn't add extra cost — it's part of the standard renewal process.
These prices explore to standard five-year licenses for drivers under 85 years old. If you're 85 or older, your license is valid for two years instead, and the renewal cost is the same. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) cost more and follow different renewal rules, so check the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website if that applies to you.
Key Takeaways
- Online or mail renewal costs $25; in-person renewal at a DPS office costs $16.
- You can renew online or by mail if your license has been expired for less than two years and you meet other basic requirements.
- If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must renew in person and may need to retake the vision test.
- Payment methods vary by renewal method — online accepts credit or debit cards, mail requires a check or money order, and in-person offices accept cash, check, or card.
When you can renew by mail or online instead of in person
Texas lets you renew by mail or online if your license expired less than two years ago, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed. You also cannot have any active suspensions or disqualifications on your record. The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and you'll receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days after approval.
Mail renewal takes longer — you'll need to send in the renewal form (DL-44) along with payment, and processing typically takes two to three weeks after the DPS receives your envelope. Both methods skip the vision test and photo retake, which is why they cost less than in-person renewal.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must renew in person. You'll also need to go in person if your address has changed, if you have medical restrictions on your license, or if you want to change your name or gender marker. At the office, you'll take a new photo and pass a vision screening. Bring your current or expired license, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease works), and proof of Social Security number or immigration status.
Wait times at DPS offices vary widely by location and time of day. Busier offices in major cities can have waits of 30 minutes to over an hour, while smaller towns may be faster. You can check wait times on the Texas DPS website before you go, and some offices let you schedule an appointment online to skip the walk-in line.
What documents you need for each renewal method
| Renewal Method | Documents Needed | Cost | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Current or expired license; Social Security number | $25 | 7–10 business days |
| Completed DL-44 form; current or expired license; payment | $25 | 2–3 weeks | |
| In-person | Current or expired license; proof of residency; proof of Social Security number or immigration status | $16 | Same day (license mailed within 7–10 days) |
Payment methods and where to send your money
Online renewal accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. You'll pay the $25 fee at the moment you submit your process. Mail renewal requires a check or money order made out to the Texas Department of Public Safety; send it with your completed DL-44 form to the address listed on the form. In-person renewal at a DPS office accepts cash, check, or debit and credit cards — call ahead if you want to confirm your local office's payment options.
Do not send cash through the mail. If you're paying by check or money order, allow extra time for postal delivery, and keep a copy of everything you send for your records.
Special situations that affect renewal cost
If you need to change your name, add or remove a gender marker, or update your address, you cannot use online renewal — you must go in person. The cost remains $16 at the office. If you're renewing a commercial driver's license, the fee is higher and the process is different; check the Texas DPS website for CDL-specific costs and requirements.
Military members stationed outside Texas can renew by mail even if their license has been expired longer than two years, as long as they provide military documentation. If you have a disability and need accommodations at a DPS office, call ahead to arrange them.
How to start your renewal
To renew online, go to the Texas DPS website and select "Renew Your Driver License" from the main menu. You'll need your license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will tell you when ready whether you're may be able to access for online renewal. If you're not, it will explain why and direct you to mail or in-person options.
To renew by mail, read or request the DL-44 form from the Texas DPS website, fill it out completely, and mail it with your payment and current or expired license to the address on the form. To renew in person, find your nearest DPS office on the website, check wait times, and bring the documents listed above. Some offices accept appointments; others operate first-come, first-served.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it's been expired for more than two years?
Yes, but you must renew in person at a DPS office. You'll need to take a new photo and pass a vision test. The cost is still $16 at the office. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number or immigration status.
What happens if I drive with an expired license while I'm waiting for my renewal?
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Texas and can result in a traffic citation. If you've submitted an online or mail renewal and it hasn't arrived yet, carry a copy of your confirmation email or receipt as proof you've renewed. This may help if you're stopped, though it doesn't may provide you won't be cited.
Do I have to take a new photo when I renew?
Only if you renew in person. Online and mail renewals use your existing photo from your current license. If you renew in person, a new photo is taken as part of the process.
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew up to one year before your expiration date using any method — online, mail, or in person. This is useful if you're planning a trip or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date.
What if I lost my license and need to renew it?
If your license is lost or stolen, you need to replace it rather than renew it. Replacement costs $11 in person or $20 by mail, and the process is different from renewal. Contact the Texas DPS website or call your local office for replacement instructions.