How to Renew Your Texas Driver's License

Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your Texas driver's license in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, by mail, or online through the Texas DPS website — but not all three routes work for everyone. Online renewal is the fastest if you're under 85, your license hasn't been suspended or revoked, and it expired no more than two years ago. By mail works for similar situations but takes longer. In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license was suspended, if you need to change your address, if you're over 85, or if you have medical conditions that require a new photo or vision test.

For any renewal route, you'll need your current Texas driver's license or ID card. If you're renewing by mail or in person, bring proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address dated within the last 90 days. If you're renewing online, the system will verify your identity using information already on file with the state.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal takes about 7 to 10 business days and costs less than in-person renewal, but only works if your license expired within the last two years and you have no suspensions or medical restrictions.
Mail renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks and requires you to send your current license and proof of residency to the DPS address on the renewal form.
In-person renewal at a DPS office takes about 30 minutes and is required if your license was suspended, if you're over 85, or if you need a new photo.
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days for online renewal, or you'll receive it when ready if you renew in person.
Texas charges different fees depending on how long your new license is valid — a standard eight-year license costs less than a renewal for someone over 85.

Online renewal through the Texas DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS online services portal and select "Renew Driver License." You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your record and ask you to confirm your address and emergency contact information. You can update your address during this step if you've moved.

Once you've reviewed your information, you'll pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card. Texas charges $33 for a standard eight-year renewal. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, and you should receive it within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your expired license until the new one arrives.

Mail renewal with a paper form

If you don't want to renew online, you can request a renewal form by mail or read it from the Texas DPS website. Fill out the form completely, including your current address and any changes to your emergency contact. Attach a copy of your proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days works.

Mail your completed form, proof of residency, and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks from the date the DPS receives your packet. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provided. If you need your license sooner, in-person renewal is faster.

In-person renewal at a DPS office

Find your nearest DPS office using the office locator on the Texas DPS website. You can walk in without an appointment at most locations, but some offices allow you to schedule a time online to reduce wait time. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and payment for the renewal fee.

At the office, a staff member will take a new photo, verify your information, and process your renewal. The whole visit usually takes 30 minutes or less. You'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot that's valid for 30 days, and your permanent license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. This is the only route that gives you a valid license to drive home with when ready.

Renewal fees and what they cover

Texas charges $33 for a standard eight-year driver's license renewal. If you're 85 or older, your license is valid for five years and costs $16. These fees cover the cost of producing and mailing your new license. You can pay by credit card or debit card online, or by check or money order if you're renewing by mail. In-person renewals accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card.

The fee does not change based on whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. However, online renewal is slightly cheaper because you don't have to pay for postage if you're mailing a form, and you avoid the cost of driving to an office.

What happens if your license has been expired for more than two years

If your Texas license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead. This requires an in-person visit to a DPS office, a new photo, a vision test, and proof of residency. You'll also need to provide proof of your Social Security number and citizenship or legal residency status. The process is similar to a first-time license but faster because you already have a Texas license history on file.

Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and documents showing your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return) and citizenship or legal residency (a passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card). The fee for a new license is the same as a renewal — $33 for eight years. Plan for the visit to take about 45 minutes to an hour.

Updating your address during renewal

If you've moved since your license was issued, you can update your address during the renewal process. Online renewal lets you change your address before you pay the fee. Mail renewal includes a space on the form to enter your new address. In-person renewal requires you to bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days.

You do not need to renew your license to change your address. You can update your address alone at a DPS office or online through the Texas DPS website, and it will be reflected on your current license. However, if your license is expiring soon anyway, it's more efficient to change your address and renew at the same time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with an expired Texas license while I wait for my renewal?

Yes, if you renewed online or by mail. You can drive on your expired license until your new one arrives. If you renewed in person, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days, which you can use to drive when ready.

What if I lost my license and need to renew it?

You cannot renew a license you don't have. You'll need to report it lost or stolen to the DPS, then explore for a replacement. Visit a DPS office with proof of residency and your Social Security number. The replacement fee is $11, and you'll receive a temporary license on the spot.

Do I need a new photo if I renew online or by mail?

No. Online and mail renewals use your existing photo from your current license. Only in-person renewal includes a new photo. If you want a new photo but don't need to renew yet, you can visit a DPS office and request a photo update for $11.

How long is my new Texas license valid?

A standard Texas driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. If you're 85 or older, your license is valid for five years. Your new license will have an expiration date printed on it.

What if my renewal is rejected online?

The system will tell you why — usually because your license was suspended, you're over 85, or your license expired more than two years ago. In those cases, you'll need to renew in person at a DPS office. If the rejection message is unclear, call the DPS at 1-888-589-6900 to find out what documents you need to bring.

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.