Texas driver's license renewal costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license

The fee you pay depends on which renewal period you choose. A four-year renewal costs $16 and is available to most drivers. An eight-year renewal costs $32 and is available to drivers aged 18 through 84. Drivers 85 and older can renew for $16 every four years. These are the fees charged by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) as of now, though you should confirm the current amount when you renew because fees can change.

You pay this fee whether you renew online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. The fee covers the cost of issuing your new license and processing your renewal. If you renew in person and need a new photo or address change, the fee remains the same—there is no extra charge for those services during a standard renewal.

Key Takeaways

  • A four-year Texas license renewal costs $16; an eight-year renewal costs $32.
  • You can renew online, by mail, or at a DPS office, and the fee is the same for all three methods.
  • If you renew online or by mail, you do not need to visit an office or get a new photo unless your license has been expired for more than two years.
  • Renewal fees are non-refundable, even if you do not complete the renewal process.

When you can renew without visiting a DPS office

Texas allows online and mail renewal for most drivers, which means you can pay the fee and complete the process from home. You are may be able to access for online or mail renewal if your license is not expired, you have not had any address changes that require a new photo, and your license does not have restrictions that require an in-person visit. Online renewal is the fastest option and typically takes a few business days.

If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must renew in person at a DPS office. You will also need to visit in person if you are renewing for the first time after turning 18, if you need a name change, or if your license was suspended or revoked. In those cases, you will pay the standard renewal fee plus any applicable reinstatement or processing fees.

Renewing in person at a DPS office

If you renew at a DPS office, you will pay the renewal fee at the time of your visit. Bring your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form). You will also need to pass a vision test and have a new photo taken. The office will process your renewal on the spot, though your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

DPS offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though hours vary by location. You can find your nearest office and check its hours on the Texas DPS website. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require an appointment. Calling ahead or checking online before you go can save you a trip.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is available if your license is not expired and you do not need a new photo. You will need to complete an process form (Form DL-44), include a copy of your current license, and mail everything along with your payment to the address provided by DPS. Payment by check or money order is required for mail renewal; credit cards are not accepted.

Mail renewal typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time DPS receives your process. Because mail can be delayed, it is wise to renew at least 6 weeks before your license expires. If your process is incomplete or DPS cannot read your documents, they will contact you by mail to request corrections, which adds time to the process.

Renewing online through the DPS website

Online renewal is the fastest method and is available at the Texas DPS website. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method (credit card or debit card). The system will verify your information and process your payment when ready. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Online renewal is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so you can renew at any time that is convenient for you. The system will confirm your payment and provide you with a confirmation number. Keep this number for your records in case you need to check the status of your renewal or contact DPS about your process.

What happens if your license expires before you renew

If your license expires before your renewal is processed, you cannot legally drive in Texas. However, if you have already submitted your renewal process (online, by mail, or in person), you may be able to drive while your new license is being processed. Check your confirmation number or receipt to see whether DPS issued you a temporary driving permit. If you did not receive one, do not drive until your new license arrives.

If you drive with an expired license and are stopped by law enforcement, you can face a traffic citation and a fine. The fine varies depending on how long your license has been expired and whether you have prior violations. It is better to renew before your expiration date to avoid this situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas license if I have moved out of state?

No. You must have a Texas address to hold a Texas license. If you have moved to another state, you should obtain a license from that state. If you are temporarily out of state but still a Texas resident, you can renew online or by mail using your Texas address.

Do I have to pay the renewal fee if I renew early?

Yes. The renewal fee is the same whether you renew early or close to your expiration date. However, renewing early means your new license will expire later, giving you more time before you need to renew again.

What payment methods does Texas DPS accept?

Online renewal accepts credit cards and debit cards. Mail renewal accepts checks and money orders only. In-person renewal at a DPS office accepts cash, checks, debit cards, and credit cards. Do not send cash by mail.

Can I get a refund if I change my mind about renewing?

No. Renewal fees are non-refundable once you have submitted your process or paid at a DPS office. If your renewal is denied for any reason, DPS will contact you to explain why, but the fee will not be returned.

How do I know if my renewal was processed?

If you renewed online or in person, you received a confirmation number. You can use this number to check the status of your renewal on the Texas DPS website. If you renewed by mail, you can call DPS to confirm receipt of your process, though processing times vary.