You can renew your Texas driver's license online if you meet specific requirements
Texas allows you to renew your driver's license online through the Department of Public Safety (DPS) website if your license is still valid or expired for no more than two years. The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes, costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, and you'll receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You cannot renew online if your license has been suspended, if you need to change your address, if you're renewing for the first time, or if you're over 85 years old.
The online system works because DPS can verify your identity through questions based on your driving record and personal history. This verification happens in real time, so you get a confirmation number when ready after payment. Your new license is then printed and mailed from the DPS facility to the address currently on file with them.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the Texas DPS website works only if your current license is valid or expired less than two years ago.
- You will need your Texas driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card) to complete the process.
- The fee is $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, paid during the online transaction.
- Your renewed license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.
- If your license is suspended, you need an address change, or you're over 85, you must renew in person at a DPS office instead.
Who can renew online and who cannot
You are may be able to access for online renewal if your Texas driver's license is currently valid or has been expired for no more than two years. Your license must not be suspended, revoked, or cancelled. You also cannot have any active traffic violations, warrants, or child support holds on your record that would prevent renewal.
You cannot use online renewal if you need to change your address, update your name, add or remove organ donor status, change your gender marker, or renew a commercial driver's license (CDL). Drivers over 85 years old must renew in person. If you've had your license suspended or revoked, you must visit a DPS office to resolve the issue before you can renew.
What you need before you start
Have your current Texas driver's license number ready. You will also need your Social Security number, a valid email address, and a debit or credit card to pay the renewal fee. The system will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record and personal history.
Before you begin, make sure your address on file with DPS is correct. If it is not, you cannot complete the online renewal—you will need to visit a DPS office instead to update your address at the same time you renew. Check your license to confirm the address matches where you currently live.
Steps to renew your license online
Go to the Texas DPS website at dps.texas.gov and look for the Driver License Online Services section. Select the online renewal option and enter your driver's license number and date of birth. The system will pull up your record and ask you to verify your identity by answering questions about your driving history or personal information.
Review the information on your license to make sure it is correct. If anything is wrong—your name, date of birth, or address—stop and visit a DPS office instead; the online system cannot fix these errors. Once you confirm everything is accurate, select your license type (four-year or eight-year) and proceed to payment. Enter your debit or credit card information and submit your payment. You will receive a confirmation number by email.
What happens after you submit your renewal
Your new license will be mailed to the address on file with DPS within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive using your current license until the new one arrives. Keep your confirmation number in case you need to check the status of your renewal or contact DPS about a problem.
If you do not receive your new license within 10 business days, contact the DPS by phone at 1-888-589-6789 or visit a local DPS office. Have your confirmation number ready. If your license arrives damaged or with errors, you can request a replacement at a DPS office.
When you must renew in person instead
Visit a DPS office if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you have a suspended or revoked license, or if you need to change your address, name, or gender marker. You must also renew in person if you are over 85 years old or if you hold a commercial driver's license.
Bring your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form). If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. In-person renewal takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and you will receive a temporary paper license to use while your new one is mailed to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew online if my license expired more than two years ago?
No. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must renew in person at a DPS office. You will need to bring proof of residency and proof of your Social Security number along with your expired license.
What if I need to change my address when I renew?
You cannot change your address through online renewal. You must visit a DPS office in person to update your address and renew your license at the same time. Bring your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?
Your renewed license should arrive within 7 to 10 business days of completing your online renewal. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives. If you do not receive it within 10 business days, contact DPS at 1-888-589-6789.
Can I renew my commercial driver's license online?
No. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) must be renewed in person at a DPS office. You will need to bring your current CDL, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number.
What if the online system says I cannot renew?
The system may block your renewal if your license is suspended, if you have an active warrant or child support hold, or if there is another issue on your record. Visit a DPS office to find out why you cannot renew online and what steps you need to take to resolve the problem.