What you need to renew your Texas license
You can renew your Texas driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The method you choose depends on how much time you have and whether your license qualifies for online or mail renewal.
To renew online or by mail, your license must not be expired for more than two years, you must not have any address changes, and you cannot have certain medical conditions or restrictions that require an in-person visit. If your license expired more than two years ago, you have a name change, or you need to update your address, you must renew in person.
For any renewal method, you will need your current Texas driver's license number and a valid form of identification if renewing in person. If renewing online or by mail, you will also need a credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than in-person renewal, but only works if your license expired within the last two years and you have no address changes.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to mail in your current license along with a completed form and payment.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license expired more than two years ago, you have a name change, or you need to update your address.
- Texas driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew up to one year before your expiration date.
- The renewal fee varies based on how long your new license will be valid, but online renewal is typically cheaper than in-person renewal.
Renewing online through the Texas DPS website
Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. Go to the Texas DPS website and select the online renewal option. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to start the process.
The system will verify your information and ask you to confirm your address and any other details on your license. You will then pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card. Once your payment processes, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal because you do not need a new photo. Your current photo from your existing license will be used on your renewed license.
Renewing by mail
Mail renewal works if your license is not expired more than two years and you have no changes to your information. You will need to complete Form DL-44 (process for Texas Driver License) or Form DL-43 (Renewal process for Texas Driver License), depending on your situation. Both forms are available on the Texas DPS website.
Mail your completed form along with your current driver's license and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a copy of a document that proves your current address if it has changed since your last renewal, even though address changes technically require in-person renewal—contact DPS first to confirm your specific situation.
Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time DPS receives your materials. You can track your process status on the Texas DPS website using your driver's license number.
Renewing in person at a DPS office
In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than two years ago, you have a name change, you need to update your address, or you have medical conditions that affect your driving. You will need to bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease).
Visit a local DPS office during business hours. Most offices operate Monday through Friday, though some have limited Saturday hours. You can find your nearest office and check its hours on the Texas DPS website. Bring all required documents to avoid making a second trip.
At the office, you will have your photo taken for your new license. The renewal fee is higher for in-person renewal than for online renewal because a new photo is included. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days, or you may be able to pick it up at the office on the same day depending on the location.
Renewal fees and how long your new license lasts
Texas driver's license renewal fees depend on how long your new license will be valid. A standard eight-year license costs one amount, while a four-year license costs less. You can choose the length when you renew, though an eight-year license is the default option.
Online and mail renewal fees are lower than in-person renewal fees because you keep your existing photo. If you renew in person, you pay more because a new photo is taken. Check the Texas DPS website for current fee amounts, as they can change.
Your new license will be valid for eight years from the date it is issued, unless you choose a shorter validity period. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, so you do not have to wait until the last minute.
What to do if your license is suspended or revoked
If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it through the standard process. You must first resolve the issue that caused the suspension or revocation. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or accumulation of too many traffic violations.
Contact the Texas DPS or the court that issued the suspension to find out what steps you need to take. Once the suspension or revocation is lifted, you can renew your license through any of the three methods described above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license if it has been expired for more than two years?
No, you must renew in person at a DPS office if your license has been expired for more than two years. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to the office.
How long does it take to get my renewed license after I explore online?
Your renewed license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after your online payment is processed. You will receive a confirmation number when ready after you complete the online renewal.
Do I need a new photo if I renew online or by mail?
No, your current photo from your existing license will be used on your renewed license if you renew online or by mail. A new photo is only taken if you renew in person at a DPS office.
What if my address has changed since my last license?
If your address has changed, you must renew in person at a DPS office. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease, along with your current license and proof of your Social Security number.
Can I renew my license if I have a medical condition that affects my driving?
If you have a medical condition that affects your driving, you must renew in person so a DPS officer can review your condition and determine whether any restrictions are needed on your license.