How to Renew Your Missouri Driver's License

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 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 violations or address changes since your last renewal.

For an in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current Missouri address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). If your name has changed since your last renewal, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will also need to pass a vision test at the office.

For an online renewal through the Missouri Department of Revenue website, you will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The process takes about 10 minutes, and your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your address and name have not changed since your last renewal.
In-person renewal at a Department of Revenue office requires your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
Missouri driver's licenses are valid for six years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
The cost of renewal is $84 for a standard six-year license, though the fee may be different if you are renewing early or need a REAL ID-compliant license.

When you can renew and how long it takes

You can renew your Missouri driver's license up to one year before it expires. The expiration date is printed on the front of your license. If you renew online, your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you renew in person, you receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it, but you must do so in person at a Department of Revenue office — the online option is not available for expired licenses. An expired license does not prevent you from driving to the office to renew, but you should carry your renewal paperwork with you in case you are stopped.

The cost of renewal in Missouri

A standard six-year driver's license renewal costs $84. If you are renewing early — before your current license expires — the fee is prorated based on how much time remains on your current license. The Department of Revenue will calculate the prorated amount when you renew.

If you want a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal air travel and entry to federal buildings), the cost is $101 for a six-year license. You do not need to upgrade to REAL ID unless you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal facility; a standard Missouri driver's license remains valid for driving and most other purposes.

What happens if your license is lost or stolen

If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot renew it online — you must visit a Department of Revenue office in person. Bring the same documents you would bring for a standard renewal: proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and your current license (if you still have it). If you do not have your current license, bring a second form of identification such as a passport or state ID card.

There is an additional fee for a replacement license due to loss or theft. The cost is $84 for a standard six-year license. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office and your plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Address changes and name changes during renewal

If your address has changed since your last renewal, you must renew in person — you cannot use the online option. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within 60 days. The Department of Revenue will update your address on your new license at no additional cost.

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a court order, you must renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change. A certified marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order from the clerk of court is required. The Department of Revenue will not accept a photocopy or an uncertified document. There is no additional fee for a name change during renewal.

Medical restrictions and vision requirements

If your current license has medical restrictions — such as corrective lenses required, hearing aid required, or automatic transmission only — you cannot renew online. You must visit a Department of Revenue office in person. At the office, you will take a vision test. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.

If you fail the vision test, the examiner will discuss your options with you. You may be able to renew with a corrective lenses restriction added to your license, or you may be referred to an eye care professional for further evaluation. If you have questions about whether a medical condition will affect your renewal, contact your local Department of Revenue office before you visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Missouri driver's license by mail?

No. Missouri does not offer mail-in renewal. You can renew online through the Department of Revenue website, or you can renew in person at any Department of Revenue office. Online renewal is the fastest option if your license is not expired and you have no address or name changes.

What if I move out of Missouri before my license expires?

You do not need to renew your Missouri license if you move to another state. Your Missouri license remains valid for identification purposes until it expires. However, you will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state within the timeframe required by that state's laws, usually 30 to 60 days after you establish residency.

How do I know if my license is REAL ID-compliant?

A REAL ID-compliant Missouri driver's license has a gold star in the upper right corner. If your current license does not have the star, it is not REAL ID-compliant. You can upgrade to a REAL ID license during renewal by paying the higher fee ($101 instead of $84) and bringing the required documents: proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and proof of your identity.

What if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?

An outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine does not prevent you from renewing your driver's license. However, the Missouri Department of Revenue may suspend your license if you have an unpaid fine related to a traffic violation. If you believe your license has been suspended, contact the Department of Revenue or the court that issued the ticket to find out the status and what you need to do to resolve it.

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.