Where and how to renew your Missouri license
You can renew your Missouri driver's license in person at any Missouri Department of Revenue office, or online through the state's website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes and requires you to bring specific documents. The online route, called Online License Renewal, takes about 10 minutes from home but only works if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not changed your address in the past four years.
To renew in person, visit a local Department of Revenue office with your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number. If you are renewing after your license has expired, you must renew in person. The office will take a new photo, verify your information, and issue a temporary paper license on the spot; your plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
To renew online, go to the Missouri Secretary of State's website, select "Online License Renewal," and follow the prompts. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method. The fee is paid by credit or debit card. Your new license ships within 7 to 10 business days.
Key Takeaways
- Missouri lets you renew online if your license is current, you have no medical restrictions, and your address has not changed in four years.
- In-person renewal at a Department of Revenue office takes about 30 minutes and requires your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
- You must renew in person if your license is expired, you have medical restrictions, or you have moved within the past four years.
- A temporary paper license is issued when ready at the office; your plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- The renewal fee varies depending on the type of license and how long you renew it for, so check the Department of Revenue website for the current amount.
Renewal fees and license validity periods
Missouri charges different renewal fees based on the type of license and the length of the renewal period you choose. A standard driver's license can be renewed for 4, 6, or 8 years. The longer the renewal period, the higher the upfront fee, but you renew less often. Check the Missouri Department of Revenue website for exact current fees, as they change periodically.
When you renew, your new license will be valid from the date of issue through the expiration date you select. If you renew online, the expiration date is set automatically based on your choice during the transaction. If you renew in person, the clerk will confirm the expiration date before you pay.
What happens if your license is expired
If your Missouri license has been expired for more than 30 days, you cannot renew online—you must go to a Department of Revenue office in person. Driving on an expired license is illegal in Missouri, even if you are in the process of renewing. You can be stopped and cited.
When you renew an expired license in person, you will need the same documents as a standard renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The office will issue a temporary paper license when ready, and your new plastic card will arrive by mail. There may be a late renewal fee in addition to the standard renewal fee; check with your local office for the current amount.
Documents you need for in-person renewal
Bring your current or expired Missouri driver's license to any Department of Revenue office. You will also need one document that proves your current address, dated within the past 90 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address.
You must also provide your Social Security number. If you do not have it memorized, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it, such as a tax return or W-2 form. If you have changed your name since your last license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Finding a Department of Revenue office near you
Missouri has Department of Revenue offices in most counties. Use the office locator on the Missouri Secretary of State website to find the nearest one, see its hours, and check current wait times. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require an appointment. The website will tell you which offices in your area take appointments and how to book one.
Offices are typically open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have extended evening or Saturday hours. Call ahead if you are unsure about wait times or whether you need an appointment, especially in larger cities where lines can be long.
Renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL)
Commercial driver's licenses cannot be renewed online in Missouri. You must renew in person at a Department of Revenue office. Bring your current CDL, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and any medical certification documents if your CDL has medical restrictions.
CDL renewal fees are higher than standard license fees and vary based on the endorsements and restrictions on your license. The office will verify your driving record and medical status before issuing your new license. If you have any violations or medical issues, the renewal process may take longer or require additional steps.
What to do if you lose your license before renewal
If your license is lost or stolen before the renewal date, you can request a replacement at any Department of Revenue office. Bring proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The replacement license will have the same expiration date as your original license.
If you want to renew at the same time you replace a lost license, tell the clerk when you arrive. You will pay both the replacement fee and the renewal fee, but you will receive a new license with an extended expiration date. This is often worth doing if your original license was expiring soon anyway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Missouri license if I live out of state?
No. Missouri requires you to be a resident to hold a Missouri driver's license. If you have moved out of state, you should obtain a license from your new state of residence. If you still live in Missouri but are temporarily out of state, you can renew online if you meet the other requirements, or you can have someone else pick up your renewed license at the office on your behalf.
How long does online renewal take?
The online renewal process itself takes about 10 minutes. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license via email that you can print and use when ready if needed, though not all offices issue these—check the website or call ahead to confirm.
What if I have a medical restriction on my license?
You cannot renew online if your license has any medical restrictions or conditions. You must renew in person at a Department of Revenue office. Bring your current license, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and any updated medical documentation if your condition has changed.
Can I renew my license before the expiration date?
Yes. You can renew up to one year before your license expires. Renewing early does not extend your total validity period—your new expiration date will be based on when you renew, not when your old license expired. This is useful if you are planning a trip and want a fresh license, or if you prefer to renew during a less busy time.
What if the Department of Revenue office is closed when I need to renew?
If your license is not yet expired, renew online. If it is expired and you need to drive, contact your local Department of Revenue office to ask about emergency temporary licenses or extended hours. Some offices offer appointments outside regular business hours. Do not drive on an expired license—the penalty is a traffic citation.