How to Renew Your Texas Driver's License

Where to renew and what documents you need

You can renew your Texas driver's license in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, by mail, or online through the DPS website — but not all renewal types work for all three methods. If your license is not expired more than two years, you can renew by mail or online. If it has been expired longer than two years, you must renew in person at a DPS office.

For any renewal method, you will need to bring or submit proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and your Social Security number. Acceptable identity documents include your current or expired Texas driver's license, a U.S. passport, a military ID, or a birth certificate. For residency, the DPS accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days.

If you are renewing online or by mail, you do not need to visit an office. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and you can do it from home. Mail renewal requires you to send your documents and a completed process form to the DPS, which takes longer but avoids a trip to an office.

Key Takeaways

Texas allows online and mail renewal if your license expired less than two years ago; licenses expired longer than that require an in-person visit to a DPS office.
You will need proof of identity (such as a passport or expired license), proof of Texas residency (such as a utility bill), and your Social Security number for any renewal method.
Online renewal through the DPS website is the fastest option and can be completed in about 10 minutes from home.
In-person renewal at a DPS office typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, but you can check wait times on the DPS website before you go.
Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days after approval, whether you renew online, by mail, or in person.

Renewing online through the DPS website

Online renewal is available if your license expired less than two years ago and you have a valid email address. Go to the Texas DPS website, select "Driver License Online Services," and create an account or log in if you already have one. You will answer questions about your current license, confirm your identity, and upload digital copies of your proof documents.

The DPS will review your submission and send you an email confirmation within one business day. If approved, your new license will be mailed to your address on file. You do not need to pay a fee for online renewal if you are straightforward renewing without changes; if you are adding a Real ID endorsement or changing information, a fee may explore.

Keep your old license until the new one arrives. If you need to drive before it comes, your old license remains valid during the renewal process.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal works if your license expired less than two years ago. read the process for a Texas Driver License or ID Card (Form DL-43) from the DPS website, fill it out completely, and mail it with copies of your proof documents to the address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee, which is $25 for a standard four-year renewal or $40 for a six-year renewal.

Processing by mail typically takes 15 to 20 business days from the date the DPS receives your envelope. Mail your process at least three weeks before your license expires to avoid driving with an expired license. The DPS will send your new license by mail once approved.

Keep a copy of your completed form and a record of when you mailed it. If your process does not arrive within the expected timeframe, you can contact the DPS to check the status.

Renewing in person at a DPS office

Visit a DPS office if your license expired more than two years ago, if you want to add a Real ID endorsement, or if you prefer to renew in person. Bring your proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. You will also need to pass a vision test and have your photo taken.

Find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website and check the current wait times before you go. Many offices allow you to check in online to reduce your time in the office. The renewal fee is $25 for a standard four-year license or $40 for a six-year license, payable by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the office.

Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to use your old license until the new one arrives, even if it is expired.

Real ID endorsement and other changes

A Real ID endorsement is a gold star on your license that meets federal identification standards for air travel and entry to federal buildings. If your current license does not have this star and you want to add it during renewal, you must renew in person at a DPS office. You will need to bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate in addition to your other documents.

If you are changing your name, address, or other information on your license, you can make these changes during renewal. Address changes can be made online or by mail. Name changes require an in-person visit and proof of the legal change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

If you are renewing after a suspension or revocation, you must renew in person and may need to pay additional fees or provide proof that the suspension has been lifted.

What to do if your license is lost or stolen

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond use, you cannot renew it — you must replace it instead. Replacement is a different process from renewal and requires an in-person visit to a DPS office. Bring proof of identity and residency, and you will pay a replacement fee of $25 for a standard four-year license.

Report a stolen license to local police and keep the report number. If you suspect identity theft, contact the Texas Attorney General's office or the Federal Trade Commission.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to renew a Texas driver's license?

A standard four-year renewal costs $25, and a six-year renewal costs $40. These fees are the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. Online renewal has no fee if you are renewing without changes or adding a Real ID endorsement; mail and in-person renewals require payment at the time you submit your process or visit the office.

Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than two years?

No, you cannot renew online or by mail if your license has been expired longer than two years. You must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number, and you will pass a vision test and have a new photo taken.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days after your renewal is approved. Online renewals are typically approved within one business day. Mail renewals take 15 to 20 business days from the date the DPS receives your envelope. In-person renewals are approved when ready, but the physical license is still mailed to you.

Do I need a Real ID endorsement to renew my license?

A Real ID endorsement is not required to renew your license, but it is required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings as of May 2025. If you want to add it during renewal, you must renew in person and bring an original or certified birth certificate.

What if I move to a different address before my new license arrives?

Contact the DPS when ready with your new address so your license is mailed to the correct location. You can update your address online through the DPS website or by calling the DPS customer service line. Have your driver's license number ready when you call.

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.