How to Renew Your California Driver's License

California driver's license renewal basics

You can renew your California driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office. The method you use depends on your age, how long your license has been expired, and whether you need to update your photo or address. Most people under 70 with a valid, non-expired license can renew online or by mail without visiting an office.

Your California license is valid for five years if you are under 70, and four years if you are 70 or older. The DMV will send you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires, but you do not have to wait for that notice to start the process. You can renew up to six months before your expiration date.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the DMV website takes about 10 minutes and costs $39 for a five-year license if you are under 70.
You cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need to change your name or address, or if you are over 70.
Mail-in renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send in your current license and a completed form DL 44 or DL 43.
In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if you are over 70, have an expired license, or need to update your photo or personal information.
You will need your Social Security number, current address, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card) for online or mail renewal.

Online renewal through the DMV website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. Go to the California DMV website, select "Renew Your Driver's License," and log in with your driver's license number and date of birth. You will answer questions about your current address, medical conditions, and organ donation status. The system will take a new photo using your device's camera, or you can use your existing photo if you prefer.

The fee is $39 for a five-year renewal if you are under 70. You pay with a debit or credit card, and your new license will arrive by mail in about 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is not available if your license expired more than five years ago, if you are 70 or older, or if you need to change your name, address, or medical information.

Mail-in renewal with forms DL 43 or DL 44

Mail-in renewal works if your license is not expired or has been expired for less than five years, and you do not need to change your address or personal information. read form DL 43 (for a standard renewal) or DL 44 (if you need to update your address or other details) from the DMV website. Fill it out completely, sign it, and include your current driver's license.

Mail your completed form and license to the address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for $39 (five-year license, under 70) or $30 (four-year license, 70 and older). Do not send cash. Your new license will arrive in two to three weeks. You can drive on your current license during this time. Keep a copy of your mailed form for your records in case there are questions about your renewal.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

You must renew in person if you are 70 or older, if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need to change your name or address, or if you want to update your photo. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Visit your local DMV office during business hours. You can make an appointment online through the DMV website, which usually reduces your wait time. The fee is the same as mail or online renewal: $39 for a five-year license if you are under 70. You will take a new photo at the office, and your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.

What happens if your license is already expired

If your license expired less than five years ago, you can renew by mail or in person using the same process as a standard renewal. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person at a DMV office. You cannot use online or mail renewal for licenses expired longer than five years.

If your license has been expired for a very long time, the DMV may require you to pass the written test and vision test again, depending on how long it has been. Call your local DMV office or check the website to confirm what you need to bring before you go in. You can still legally drive while your renewal is being processed as long as you have submitted your renewal process.

Costs and payment methods

The renewal fee for a five-year driver's license is $39 if you are under 70. If you are 70 or older, a four-year license costs $30. These fees are the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. Online and in-person renewals accept debit or credit cards. Mail-in renewals require a check or money order — do not send cash through the mail.

Some people may be charged an additional fee if they are renewing after a suspension or if they have unpaid traffic violations. Check your renewal notice or the DMV website for your specific situation. If you cannot pay the full fee at once, contact your local DMV office to ask about payment plans.

Tracking your renewal and receiving your new license

After you complete your renewal online or by mail, the DMV will send you a confirmation email or letter with a tracking number. You can use this number to check the status of your renewal on the DMV website. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address you provided during renewal. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during busy periods.

If your new license does not arrive within three weeks, contact the DMV using the phone number on your renewal confirmation. Have your tracking number ready. You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait for the new one. If your current license expires before your new one arrives, you can print a temporary license from the DMV website to carry with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my California driver's license if I live out of state?

Yes. You can renew online or by mail from anywhere. If you need to renew in person, you must visit a California DMV office in person, or you can contact the DMV to ask about exceptions if you have moved permanently out of state.

What if I need to change my name during renewal?

You must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring your current license, proof of your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and proof of residency. Online and mail renewal cannot process name changes.

Do I need a new photo for renewal?

Online renewal will take a new photo using your device's camera, or you can keep your existing photo. In-person renewal requires a new photo taken at the DMV office. Mail-in renewal uses your existing photo from your current license.

What if my license was suspended or revoked?

You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license through the standard renewal process. Contact the DMV directly to find out what steps you need to take to restore your driving privileges before you can renew.

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?

You can renew your license, but the DMV may place a hold on your renewal if you have unpaid traffic violations or court fines. Contact the court or the DMV to resolve the issue before your renewal is processed, or your new license may be delayed.

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.