Virginia lets you renew online, by mail, or in person depending on your license type and how long it has been expired

Virginia driver's licenses expire every eight years. You can renew before expiration through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website, by mail, or at a DMV office. The method available to you depends on whether your license is still valid, how old you are, and whether you need to update your address or photograph.

If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you have the same renewal options as someone with a current license. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a DMV office and may need to retake the written test. The DMV website (dmvnow.com) is the fastest way to check your may be able to access and start the process.

Key Takeaways

  • Virginia licenses expire every eight years, and you can begin renewing up to one year before the expiration date.
  • Online renewal through dmvnow.com works for most people whose licenses are current or expired fewer than two years, and takes about 10 minutes.
  • Mail renewal is available for the same group but takes two to three weeks; you will need to submit your current license and a completed process.
  • In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if your license expired more than two years ago, and you may need to pass the written test again.
  • You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of Virginia residency, and your Social Security number to any in-person visit.

Renewing online through dmvnow.com

The Virginia DMV website allows you to renew online if your license is current or expired fewer than two years. You will need your current license number, date of birth, Social Security number, and a valid email address. The process takes about 10 minutes and costs $40 for a standard eight-year license.

After you complete the online renewal, the DMV mails your new license to the address on file. Delivery typically takes 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need to update your address or photograph, online renewal will not work—you must renew by mail or in person.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is available for the same group as online renewal: people whose licenses are current or expired fewer than two years. You will need to complete Form DL-44 (process for Virginia Driver's License), sign it, and mail it with your current license to the address listed on the form. The DMV website has a printable copy of the form.

Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the DMV receives your process. Include a check or money order for $40 payable to the Treasurer of Virginia. If you are renewing by mail and need to change your address, write the new address clearly on the process form. You cannot update your photograph by mail; if you need a new photo, you must renew in person.

Renewing in person at a DMV office

In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than two years ago. You must visit a DMV customer service center with proof of identity (your current or expired license works), proof of Virginia residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the past 60 days), and your Social Security number. Bring the original documents or certified copies—photocopies are not accepted for residency proof.

The DMV office will take a new photograph and process your renewal on the spot. If your license expired more than two years ago, you will be asked to pass the written knowledge test before your license is renewed. The test covers Virginia traffic laws and safe driving practices. You can study using the Virginia Driver's Manual, available free on the DMV website.

In-person visits require an appointment. You can schedule one through dmvnow.com or by calling the DMV at 804-367-0538. Wait times vary by location and time of day; scheduling ahead typically takes 15 to 30 minutes off your visit time.

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

If your Virginia license expired more than two years ago, the DMV treats it as a new process rather than a renewal. You must visit a DMV office in person, bring the documents listed above, and pass the written test. You cannot use online or mail renewal.

The written test is the same 35-question exam given to new drivers. You need a score of 70 percent or higher to pass. The DMV provides a free study guide on its website. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee to retake the test.

Updating your address or photograph during renewal

If you need to change your address, you can do so during online renewal by entering your new address in the process. The new address will appear on your renewed license. If you are renewing by mail, write your new address on the process form.

If you need a new photograph, you must renew in person at a DMV office. The office will take a new photo as part of the renewal process at no extra cost. Online and mail renewal do not include a new photograph; your current photo will be used on your renewed license.

Costs and payment methods

A standard eight-year Virginia driver's license renewal costs $40. Online renewal accepts credit cards, debit cards, and electronic checks. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal at a DMV office accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card.

If you are a Virginia resident age 65 or older, the renewal fee is $20. Military members on active duty and their spouses may be may be able to access for a reduced fee; ask at the DMV office or check dmvnow.com for current details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it expired while I was out of state?

Yes. If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you can renew online, by mail, or in person using the same process as anyone else. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test. The two-year rule is based on expiration date, not where you were living.

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

You cannot renew online or by mail without your current license number. You must visit a DMV office in person with proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate) and proof of residency. The office will issue a replacement license and handle the renewal at the same time.

How long can I drive after my license expires while I wait for the renewed one?

You can drive on your current license until it expires. Once it expires, you cannot legally drive until your new license arrives. If you are renewing online or by mail, plan ahead so your new license arrives before the expiration date. If you need to drive when ready, renew in person at a DMV office.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person?

Yes. Appointments are required at all Virginia DMV customer service centers. You can schedule through dmvnow.com or by calling 804-367-0538. Walk-ins are not accepted. Scheduling an appointment in advance reduces wait time.

Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?

Unpaid traffic tickets do not prevent license renewal in Virginia. However, if you have an outstanding warrant or suspension order related to a traffic case, the DMV may not process your renewal until the issue is resolved. Check your driving record on dmvnow.com to see if there are any holds on your license.