Where to go for a driver's license or ID in Springfield

The Springfield Driver License Office is located at 2715 North Glenstone Avenue, Springfield, MO 65803. This is the main office where you can renew, replace, or obtain a Missouri driver's license or state ID card. The office is operated by the Missouri Department of Revenue, and it handles both new applications and renewals for residents in the Springfield area.

You can also visit the Springfield South Driver License Office at 3141 South Campbell Avenue, Springfield, MO 65807, if the north location is inconvenient. Both offices offer the same services and accept the same documents. Neither location requires an appointment — you walk in during business hours and take a number.

Hours vary by location and season. Call ahead or check the Missouri Department of Revenue website to confirm current hours before you go, as they sometimes change for holidays or staffing. Wait times are typically shorter early in the morning on weekdays.

Key Takeaways

  • Springfield has two driver license offices: one on North Glenstone and one on South Campbell, both operated by the Missouri Department of Revenue.
  • You do not need an appointment — arrive during business hours with the required documents and take a number at the counter.
  • Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or a document showing it to renew or obtain a license.
  • A new driver's license costs money that varies depending on whether you are renewing, replacing a lost card, or obtaining one for the first time.
  • Processing takes a few minutes at the counter, but the physical card arrives by mail within one to two weeks.

What documents you need to bring

The documents required depend on whether you are renewing an existing license, replacing a lost one, or obtaining a license for the first time. For any transaction, bring a document showing your Social Security number — this can be your Social Security card itself, a W-2, a tax return, or a 1099 form. You will also need proof of identity, which can be a passport, military ID, certified birth certificate, or an existing Missouri driver's license.

You must also bring proof of residency showing your current Springfield address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you have recently moved, bring both your old address proof and your new address proof.

If you are renewing a license that is still valid, bring the license itself. If it is expired or lost, bring whatever identity documents you have. Minors under 16 need a parent or guardian present with their own ID.

Fees and what you will receive

A standard four-year driver's license costs $20.50 in Missouri. An eight-year license costs $40. A state ID card (for non-drivers) costs $11.50 for four years or $23 for eight years. Replacement of a lost or stolen license costs $11.50. All fees are paid at the counter when you submit your documents.

You will receive a temporary paper permit on the spot that is valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed. The permanent card typically arrives within one to two weeks. If you need to drive before the card arrives, the temporary permit is your proof of license. Keep it with you.

Renewing your license by mail or online

If your Missouri driver's license is not expired and you have not had any address changes, you may be able to renew by mail or online without visiting an office. The Missouri Department of Revenue website has a tool that tells you whether you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal based on your license number and birth date.

Mail renewal takes longer — typically three to four weeks for the card to arrive — but online renewal is faster if you have a valid email address on file. Not all drivers are may be able to access; those with medical restrictions, those who have failed a vision test, or those with certain violations must renew in person at an office.

What to do if you have failed a vision test or have restrictions

If your license has medical restrictions or you have failed a vision test, you must renew in person at a Springfield office. Bring the same documents as a standard renewal, plus any medical documentation your doctor has provided. The office will schedule a vision test on the spot or refer you to an eye care provider if one is needed.

Vision tests at the office are quick — you read a chart and identify colors. If you fail, you will be told what type of eye care provider to see and given a form to bring back once you have been examined. Once the form is submitted, your license can be renewed with any required restrictions noted.

Getting a Real ID-compliant license

Missouri driver's licenses issued after 2017 are Real ID compliant, meaning they meet federal standards for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. If your license is older or you are unsure, the Springfield offices can issue a Real ID license at no extra cost during renewal.

Real ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner. If you plan to fly domestically or visit a federal facility, having a Real ID license is simpler than carrying a passport. The documents required are the same as a standard renewal — no additional paperwork is needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it is expired?

Yes. An expired license can still be renewed at the office with the same documents as a standard renewal. If it has been more than five years since it expired, you may need to retake the written test and vision test, so call ahead to confirm what the office will require.

What if I lost my Social Security card?

Bring a different document showing your Social Security number, such as a W-2, tax return, or 1099. If you do not have any of these, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before visiting the license office, as you cannot obtain a license without proof of your number.

How long does the whole process take at the office?

The counter transaction usually takes 5 to 15 minutes depending on the line. Wait times range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the time of day and day of the week. Weekday mornings are typically faster than afternoons or weekends.

Can I get a duplicate license if mine is still valid?

Yes. If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged but still valid, you can get a duplicate at the office for $11.50. Bring your identity and residency documents. The duplicate will have the same expiration date as your original.

Do I need to take a driving test to renew?

No. Renewals do not require a driving test. You only take a vision test if your license has medical restrictions or if the office flags your record for a retest. New drivers do require a driving test before the license is issued.