How to renew your Texas driver's license

You can renew your Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) in three ways: online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access — it takes about 7 to 10 business days and costs $16 for a five-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks. In-person renewal at a DPS office is when ready but requires an appointment, which you book through the TXDPS website.

Your may be able to access depends on when your license expires, your age, and whether you've had any recent changes to your name, address, or medical conditions. If you don't meet the requirements for online or mail renewal, you must renew in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the TXDPS website is available if your license expired within the last two years and you have no medical restrictions or name changes since your last renewal.
  • Mail renewal requires you to submit your current license, a completed process form, and payment to the TXDPS address — no appointment needed.
  • In-person renewal at a DPS office requires an online appointment booked through the TXDPS website and takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
  • You'll need your Social Security number, current address, and payment method ready before you start any renewal process.
  • If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew by mail or online and must visit a DPS office in person.

Online renewal through the TXDPS website

To renew online, go to the TXDPS website and select the online renewal option. You'll need your driver's license number, Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The system will verify your information against TXDPS records and ask you to confirm your current address.

Online renewal is only available if your license expired within the last two years, you have no medical restrictions, your name hasn't changed since your last renewal, and you have no outstanding traffic violations or warrants. If any of these conditions don't explore to you, you'll be directed to renew by mail or in person instead.

After you complete the online transaction, TXDPS will mail your new license to the address on file. You should receive it within 7 to 10 business days. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives.

Mail renewal and what to send

To renew by mail, read and print the DL-43 form (process for Texas Driver License) from the TXDPS website. Fill it out completely, including your current address and any changes since your last renewal. Include your current driver's license and a check or money order for the renewal fee — $16 for a five-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. Do not send cash.

Mail your completed form, license, and payment to the TXDPS address listed on the form. Keep a copy of everything you send. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date TXDPS receives your packet. Your current license remains valid during this time.

Mail renewal is available if your license expired within the last two years and you meet the same conditions as online renewal. If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew by mail.

In-person renewal at a DPS office

To renew in person, book an appointment through the TXDPS website by selecting your county and preferred DPS office location. You can schedule an appointment up to 60 days in advance. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days), and payment in cash, check, or card.

Your appointment typically takes 15 to 30 minutes. A DPS officer will verify your information, take a new photo, and process your payment. You'll receive your new license when ready or within a few days, depending on the office. If you need a license the same day, ask the officer about rush processing options when you arrive.

In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than two years ago, you have medical restrictions, your name has changed, or you have outstanding violations or warrants. You must have a valid appointment — walk-ins are not accepted at most DPS offices.

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

If your Texas driver's license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it — you must reapply for a new license. This means you'll need to visit a DPS office in person, bring proof of citizenship or legal residency, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. The process is more involved than renewal and takes longer.

Book an appointment through the TXDPS website just as you would for in-person renewal. Bring all required documents and be prepared to retake your vision test and written exam. The fee for a new license is the same as renewal, but the appointment may take longer because you're starting fresh rather than updating an existing record.

Fees and payment methods

A five-year Texas driver's license costs $16, and an eight-year license costs $32. These are the standard renewal fees. If you're renewing online or by mail, you pay by debit or credit card (online) or check or money order (mail). At a DPS office, you can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

Some DPS offices may charge an additional fee for certain services, such as duplicate licenses or address changes. Ask about any extra costs when you book your appointment or before you mail your renewal packet.

How to check your renewal status

If you renewed online or by mail, you can check the status of your license through the TXDPS website. You'll need your driver's license number and date of birth. The status page will tell you whether your license is in processing, ready for pickup, or has been mailed.

If you renewed in person, your license is either issued when ready or will be mailed within a few days. The DPS officer will give you a receipt showing when to expect it. If more than two weeks have passed since your in-person appointment and you haven't received your license, contact the DPS office where you renewed to confirm the status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have a suspended or revoked status?

No. You must resolve any suspension or revocation with TXDPS before you can renew. Contact the DPS office or call the TXDPS customer service line to find out why your license is suspended or revoked and what steps you need to take to clear it.

What if my address has changed since my last renewal?

You can update your address during online or mail renewal by entering your new address on the form or website. If you're renewing in person, bring proof of your new residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days) and the DPS officer will update it for you.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person?

Yes. Most DPS offices require an appointment booked through the TXDPS website. Walk-ins are not accepted. You can schedule an appointment up to 60 days in advance and choose your preferred date and time.

How long does it take to receive a license renewed by mail?

Mail renewal typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date TXDPS receives your packet. Your current license remains valid during this time, so you can continue to drive while you wait.

What if I need my license before the standard processing time?

If you renew in person, ask the DPS officer about rush processing or same-day issuance options. Some offices can issue your license the same day or within a few days. Online and mail renewals do not have rush options — standard processing times explore.