Where to renew and what you'll need
You can renew your Texas driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, by mail, or online through the Texas DPS website — but not all renewal types work through every method. The fastest route depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you've had a name change, and how long you want your new license to last.
If your license is still valid and you haven't changed your name or address, you can renew online at dps.texas.gov without visiting an office. The online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. You'll need your current Texas driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address.
If your license has expired, you've changed your name, or you need to update your address, you must renew in person at a DPS office or by mail. In-person renewal at a DPS office typically takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the location is. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks for processing, plus mailing time both ways.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal works only if your current license is valid, you haven't changed your name, and you're renewing before expiration — it costs $16 for four years or $32 for eight years.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license has expired, you've had a name change, or you need to update your address.
- You'll need your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number for any renewal method.
- DPS offices accept walk-ins but have varying wait times; checking the office's current wait time online before you go saves time.
- Mail renewal takes longer but works if you can't visit an office; you'll mail your current license and the completed form to the DPS address provided on their website.
What documents to bring for in-person renewal
For in-person renewal at a DPS office, bring your current Texas driver's license, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days. A cell phone bill does not count as proof of address.
If you've changed your name since your last license was issued, bring the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you've changed your address, the DPS office will update it during renewal. If you're renewing an expired license, bring the same documents plus your expired license if you still have it.
You do not need to bring a new photo; the DPS will take one at the office. Wear clear glasses if you normally wear them, since the photo will be taken with whatever you're wearing at the time of renewal.
Online renewal step-by-step
Go to dps.texas.gov and select "Online Driver License Renewal" from the main menu. You'll be asked to enter your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your information against DPS records.
Next, you'll choose your license term: four years for $16 or eight years for $32. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check. After payment, you'll receive a confirmation number by email. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Online renewal is not available if your license expired more than two years ago, if you're under 18, if you've had a name change, or if you need to update your address. If any of these explore, you must renew in person or by mail.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
Find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website by entering your zip code. Many offices show current wait times online, which you can check before you go. Offices are typically busier on Mondays, Tuesdays, and mid-month, so going on a Wednesday or Thursday morning often means shorter waits.
Bring your current license, proof of address, and your Social Security number. You do not need an appointment for standard renewals; DPS offices accept walk-ins. When you arrive, you'll check in at the front desk, take a number, and wait for your turn. A staff member will verify your documents, take a new photo, and process your renewal.
In-person renewal costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. You can pay by cash, check, or card. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license sooner, ask the DPS office about expedited mail options, which may be available for an additional fee.
Mail renewal if you can't visit an office
read the driver's license renewal form (DL-43) from the Texas DPS website. Fill it out completely, including your current license number, date of birth, and the term you want (four or eight years). Sign and date the form.
Mail your completed form, your current license, a check or money order for $16 (four years) or $32 (eight years), and a copy of your proof of address to the DPS mailing address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a return address so the DPS can mail your new license back to you.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks for the DPS to process, plus mailing time in both directions — typically four to five weeks total from when the DPS receives your envelope. Your current license will be returned to you along with your new license. If your current license expires before your new one arrives, you can print a temporary license from the DPS website to use while you wait.
License expiration dates and renewal important date
Your Texas driver's license expiration date is printed on the front of your license. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. If you wait until after your license expires, you must renew in person at a DPS office — online and mail renewal are not available for expired licenses.
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you may need to take a written test and vision test in addition to the standard renewal process. Check with your local DPS office about what's required in your situation.
Texas allows a grace period of up to 60 days after expiration for certain purposes, but you should not rely on this. Renewing before your expiration date keeps you legal and avoids the need for in-person renewal if your circumstances change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it's been expired for more than a year?
Yes, but you must renew in person at a DPS office. If your license expired more than two years ago, you may need to pass a written test and vision test in addition to the standard renewal. Contact your local DPS office to confirm what's required before you go.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after the DPS processes your renewal. Mail renewal takes longer overall because of mailing time in both directions — typically four to five weeks from when you mail your process. If you need your license sooner, ask the DPS office about expedited options.
What if I've moved and my address on my license is wrong?
You can update your address during any renewal method. For online renewal, the system will ask for your current address and update it automatically. For in-person renewal, bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days). For mail renewal, include a copy of your proof of address with your process.
Do I need a new photo for my renewed license?
For online renewal, the DPS will use your current photo from your existing license. For in-person renewal, the DPS office will take a new photo. For mail renewal, you do not submit a photo — the DPS will use your current one unless you request a new photo at a DPS office.
Can I renew my license if my name has changed?
No, you cannot renew online or by mail if you've had a name change. You must renew in person at a DPS office and bring the document that proves the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DPS will update your name and issue a new license with your current name.