Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your California driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access — it takes about 10 minutes and costs $39 for a four-year renewal or $59 for an eight-year renewal. You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and a payment method (credit card, debit card, or electronic check).

If you renew by mail, send your current license, the renewal notice (Form DL 44 or DL 43), a check or money order, and proof of residency to the DMV address listed on your notice. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks. In-person renewal at an DMV office requires your current license, proof of residency, and payment, and you can usually complete it the same day, though wait times vary by location.

Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government document showing your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal is available if your license is not expired, you have no medical conditions to report, and you have not had a name change since your last renewal.
  • Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires your current license, the renewal notice, and a check or money order.
  • In-person renewal at a DMV office is same-day in most cases and requires your current license and proof of residency.
  • Your renewal fee depends on how long your new license will be valid — $39 for four years or $59 for eight years.

When you're may be able to access to renew online

The DMV will tell you whether you can renew online by sending you a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. If the notice says you're may be able to access for online renewal, you can proceed on the DMV website. You are not may be able to access for online renewal if your license is already expired, if you have changed your name since your last renewal, or if you have a medical condition that requires DMV review.

You also cannot renew online if you need a new photo, though you can request a new photo during online renewal for an additional $13. If you choose not to update your photo online, you'll need to renew in person or by mail.

Renewing in person at a DMV office

Walk into any DMV office with your current license and proof of residency. You do not need an appointment for a standard renewal, though you can schedule one online to reduce wait time. Bring your payment method — cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The DMV accepts all of these.

Processing time at the office is usually 30 minutes to two hours depending on how busy the location is. You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card will arrive by mail within two weeks. Check the DMV website for your local office hours and location before you go.

Renewing by mail

The DMV will send you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires. The notice includes a prepaid envelope and instructions. Fill out the form, include your current license, and mail everything along with a check or money order to the address on the envelope. Do not send cash.

Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DMV receives your packet. Your new license will arrive by mail. If you do not receive your renewal notice, you can request one by calling the DMV at 1-800-777-0133 or visiting a local office.

What happens if your license has already expired

If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead. This requires an in-person visit to a DMV office, a written test, and a driving test. If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can still renew by mail or in person, but not online.

Driving with an expired license is illegal in California, even if you have a renewal process pending. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you could face a fine. If your renewal is in progress, bring proof of your process (like a receipt or confirmation email) to show you have applied.

Getting a new photo during renewal

If you renew online, you can add a new photo for $13. You'll take a selfie using your phone or computer and upload it during the online process. The DMV will review your photo to make sure it meets their standards — it must show your face clearly, be taken against a plain background, and not include sunglasses or hats.

If you renew by mail, you cannot update your photo. If you renew in person, the DMV will take a new photo as part of the process at no extra charge. If you want a new photo but are renewing by mail, you'll need to visit a DMV office instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does my renewed license last?

A standard renewal is valid for four years ($39) or eight years ($59). You choose the length when you renew. Licenses for drivers under 70 years old are typically valid for eight years, while drivers 70 and older usually get four-year licenses.

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

Yes, an outstanding ticket or fine does not prevent you from renewing your license. However, if you have an unpaid fine related to your license suspension, the DMV may not process your renewal until the suspension is cleared. Contact the DMV or the court that issued the fine to find out your status.

What if I changed my name since my last renewal?

You cannot renew online if your name has changed. You must renew in person at a DMV office and bring a certified copy of the document showing your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DMV will issue a new license with your updated name.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

For mail renewal, yes — someone can mail your process on your behalf. For in-person renewal, you must be present. You cannot renew online through someone else's account.

What if I lose my license before the renewal arrives?

Contact the DMV when ready to report it lost. You can request a replacement license in person at any DMV office or by mail. If your renewal was already in progress, the DMV can cancel that order and issue a replacement instead.