How to Renew Your Texas Driver's License Online, by Mail, or In Person

Where and how to renew your Texas driver's license

You can renew your Texas driver's license through the Department of Public Safety (DPS) in three ways: online at dps.texas.gov, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements — it takes about 10 business days and costs $16 for a two-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. Mail renewal takes three to four weeks. In-person renewal at a DPS office is when ready if you need your license the same day, though wait times vary by location.

Your renewal method depends on when your license expires, how long you want it valid, and whether you need to update your address or other information. Not all renewals can be done online; some require an office visit.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through dps.texas.gov is available if your license expired within the last two years and you have not had a name change, address change, or medical condition update since your last renewal.
Mail renewal takes three to four weeks and requires you to send your current license, a completed DL-44 form, and payment to the DPS address listed on the form.
In-person renewal at a DPS office requires a valid ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number, and you can walk out with a temporary license the same day.
If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew online and must renew in person or by mail.
Texas driver's licenses are valid for eight years for most adults, but you can choose a shorter two-year renewal period if you prefer.

Online renewal requirements and steps

Online renewal is only available if your license expired within the last two years, you have not changed your name, you have not changed your address since your last renewal, and you have no medical conditions or restrictions that need updating. You also need a valid email address and a credit or debit card to pay the fee.

To renew online, go to dps.texas.gov, select "Driver License" from the main menu, then choose "Renew Online." You will enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Review your information, confirm it is correct, choose your renewal period (two or eight years), and pay the fee. You will receive a confirmation email when ready. Your new license will arrive by mail in about 10 business days. You can use your confirmation email as proof of a valid license until your new one arrives.

Mail renewal: forms, documents, and timeline

Mail renewal works if your license expired within the last two years and you do not need to change your address or other information. You will need to complete a DL-44 form, which you can read from dps.texas.gov or request by calling the DPS at 1-888-589-6900.

Send your current license, the completed DL-44 form, and a check or money order for $16 (two-year) or $32 (eight-year) to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope with your address if you want your old license back. Mail renewal takes three to four weeks from the time DPS receives your packet. There is no way to track your process by mail, so allow extra time before your license expires if you are planning to travel.

In-person renewal at a DPS office

In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than two years ago, you have changed your name or address, you have a medical condition or restriction to update, or you straightforward prefer to walk out with a license the same day. You will need to bring a valid ID (your expired license counts), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number.

Find your nearest DPS office on dps.texas.gov by entering your zip code. Most offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments. Call ahead or check the office website to confirm hours and whether you need to schedule. When you arrive, bring your documents and be prepared to have your photo taken. You will pay $16 for a two-year license or $32 for an eight-year license by cash, check, or card. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed to you, which takes about 10 business days.

What to do if your license expired more than two years ago

If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot use online or mail renewal. You must renew in person at a DPS office. Bring the same documents as a standard in-person renewal: a valid ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The fee is the same ($16 or $32 depending on the renewal period you choose).

If your license has been expired for more than five years, DPS may require you to pass a written test and vision test in addition to the standard renewal process. Call your local DPS office or check dps.texas.gov to confirm what tests you will need before you go in.

Address changes and other updates during renewal

If you have moved since your last renewal, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must renew in person at a DPS office 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. If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or legal change, you will also need to renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document showing the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

If you have a medical condition that affects your driving or need to update restrictions on your license, you must renew in person. Bring any medical documentation your doctor has provided and be prepared to discuss the condition with DPS staff.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas driver's license if it has been expired for six months?

Yes, if it has been expired for less than two years, you can renew online or by mail. If it has been expired for more than two years, you must renew in person at a DPS office.

How long does a Texas driver's license last after renewal?

You can choose a two-year or eight-year renewal period. Most adults choose eight years. The fee is $16 for two years or $32 for eight years.

What if I need my license before the mail arrives?

If you renew in person, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days the same day. If you renew online or by mail, you can use your confirmation email as proof of a valid license until your new one arrives by mail.

Do I need an appointment at a DPS office to renew my license?

Most DPS offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments. Check dps.texas.gov or call your local office before you go to confirm their policy and current wait times.

What happens if my license expires while I am waiting for my renewal to arrive?

If you renewed online or by mail, your confirmation email or the temporary paper license you received in person is valid proof that you have a pending renewal. You can drive legally while waiting for your new license to arrive.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.