How to Get and Renew Your Missouri Driver's License

What you need to know about Missouri driver's licenses

Missouri issues two types of driver's licenses: a standard license for regular driving and an enhanced license that works as a Real ID document for federal purposes like domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. Both are issued by the Missouri Department of Revenue, and both require you to visit a license office in person for your first license or certain renewals. You cannot complete the entire process online, though Missouri does allow some renewals by mail if you meet specific conditions.

The standard license costs $11.50 for a four-year term or $23 for an eight-year term. An enhanced license costs $24 for four years or $48 for eight years. These prices do not include any fees your local license office may charge for services like duplicate licenses or address changes. Missouri licenses expire on your birthday, and the state sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before expiration.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a Missouri license office in person to get your first license, and you need proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of Missouri residency.
Standard licenses cost $11.50 for four years or $23 for eight years; enhanced licenses cost $24 or $48 for the same terms.
You can renew by mail only if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not had a name change since your last license.
Missouri recognizes REAL ID-compliant documents, so an enhanced license is required for domestic air travel starting in 2025 if you do not have a passport.
Duplicate licenses, address changes, and corrections to your record all require a visit to a license office and may have separate fees.

Getting your first Missouri driver's license

To obtain your first license, you must visit a Missouri Department of Revenue license office with the required documents. You will need one form of government-issued photo ID (such as a passport, military ID, or state ID), your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, and two documents proving your Missouri residency. Acceptable residency documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A driver's license from another state counts as your photo ID but not as proof of residency.

At the license office, you will take a vision test, answer questions about your medical history, and have your photograph taken. You will also take a written knowledge test covering Missouri traffic laws and road signs, and a driving skills test in which an examiner observes you operating a vehicle. Some license offices allow you to schedule your driving test in advance; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check your local office's website or call ahead to learn their process and current wait times.

If you are under 18, you must also provide proof of your date of birth (such as a birth certificate) and written consent from a parent or guardian. Minors receive a license with restrictions: they cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless traveling to work, school, or a medical appointment, and they cannot use a cell phone while driving. These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after one year of violation-free driving, whichever comes first.

Renewing your Missouri driver's license

If your license is still valid and you have not had a name change, you can renew by mail. Request a renewal form from the Missouri Department of Revenue website or by calling your local license office. Complete the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail it to the address on the form. Processing typically takes two to three weeks. You will receive your new license by mail.

You must renew in person if your license has expired, if you have had a name change since your last license, if you have medical restrictions on your current license, or if you want to change the term length (from four years to eight years, for example). You will also need to renew in person if you want to upgrade from a standard license to an enhanced license. Bring the same documents you used for your first license: photo ID, Social Security verification, and two proofs of residency.

Missouri licenses expire on your birthday. The state mails renewal notices about 60 days before expiration. If you do not receive a notice, do not wait—contact your local license office to request a renewal form or schedule an in-person appointment. Driving on an expired license is illegal and can result in a traffic citation.

Enhanced licenses and REAL ID compliance

An enhanced driver's license is a REAL ID-compliant document that the federal government accepts for domestic air travel, entry to military bases, and entry to federal buildings. Starting in 2025, the Transportation Security Administration will no longer accept standard driver's licenses for domestic flights; you will need either an enhanced license, a passport, a military ID, or another REAL ID document.

To get an enhanced license, you must visit a license office in person and bring the same documents required for a standard license. The enhanced license looks the same as a standard license but includes a gold star in the upper right corner. It costs $24 for four years or $48 for eight years—$12.50 to $25 more than a standard license. If you already have a standard license and want to upgrade, you can do so at any license office; you do not have to wait for your current license to expire.

Duplicate licenses and address changes

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a duplicate at any Missouri license office. Bring your photo ID and proof of residency. A duplicate license costs $6.50 and is issued when ready. If your license was stolen, consider reporting the theft to local police; some offices may ask for a police report number.

To change your address on your license, visit a license office with your current license and proof of your new Missouri address. The address change is free and takes a few minutes. You do not need to renew your license to change your address. If you move out of Missouri, you must obtain a license from your new state; Missouri will not issue a license to someone who does not live in the state.

Correcting errors on your license

If your license contains an error—a misspelled name, wrong date of birth, or incorrect address—visit a license office with your current license and documents that prove the correct information. For a name error, bring a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or court order showing the correct name. For a date of birth error, bring your birth certificate. Corrections are usually free, though some offices may charge a small fee for duplicate issuance if a new license is needed.

If the error was made by the Missouri Department of Revenue, the office will correct it at no charge. If the error was in the documents you provided, you may be asked to pay for a duplicate license. Ask the office staff before they process your request so you understand any costs involved.

License office locations and hours

Missouri has license offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you, along with hours and services offered, on the Missouri Department of Revenue website. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only; others have Saturday hours. Many offices now allow you to schedule appointments online, which can significantly reduce your wait time. If your local office does not offer online scheduling, call ahead to ask about current wait times before you visit.

During peak times—lunch hours, end of month, and days before holidays—wait times can exceed an hour. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits. If you cannot visit during regular hours, check whether your office offers extended evening hours on certain days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

No. Missouri does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you have no name changes or medical restrictions. Otherwise, you must visit a license office in person.

What happens if I drive with an expired license?

Driving on an expired license is a traffic violation and can result in a citation and fine. If you are stopped by police, your vehicle may be impounded. Renew your license before it expires to avoid these consequences.

Do I need an enhanced license for air travel?

Starting in 2025, yes—for domestic flights. A standard Missouri driver's license will no longer be accepted by the Transportation Security Administration. You will need an enhanced license, passport, military ID, or another REAL ID document.

How long does it take to get a new license after my first visit?

If you pass your knowledge and driving tests on your first visit, your license is typically issued within one to two weeks and arrives by mail. If you fail either test, you must schedule another appointment to retake it.

What if I move to another state?

You must obtain a driver's license from your new state. Missouri will not renew or issue a license to someone who no longer lives in the state. Contact your new state's Department of Motor Vehicles to learn their requirements.

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.