Where to renew your Texas driver's license
You can renew your Texas driver's license in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Texas DPS website. The method you choose depends on whether your license is expired, whether you need to change information, and how soon you need the new one.
In-person renewal at a DPS office takes about 30 minutes on average, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Mail renewal takes 7 to 10 business days after DPS receives your process. Online renewal, available only for standard renewals with no address or name changes, processes in about one business day.
Key Takeaways
- You can renew online if your license is not expired and you have no address or name changes, and you will receive your new license by mail in about one business day.
- Mail renewal requires a completed DL-44 form, proof of residency, and your current license, and takes 7 to 10 business days after DPS receives it.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license is expired more than two years, if you need to change your address or name, or if you want to update your photo.
- You will need to bring your Social Security number, proof of Texas residency, and proof of identity to any in-person renewal appointment.
- DPS offices accept appointments online through their website, and walk-ins are served on a first-come, first-served basis depending on office capacity.
Online renewal: fastest option for standard updates
Online renewal through the Texas DPS website works only if your current license is still valid, you have no name or address changes to make, and you do not need a new photo. You will pay the renewal fee online with a credit or debit card, and DPS will mail your new license to the address on file.
To start, visit 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. The system will verify your information against DPS records and confirm whether you are may be able to access for online renewal. If approved, you will receive your new license by mail within one business day of approval, though delivery typically takes 5 to 7 business days depending on your location.
Mail renewal: no office visit required
Mail renewal is available if your license expired less than two years ago and you have no address or name changes. You will need to complete the DL-44 form (process for Texas Driver License), include a copy of your current license, and provide proof of Texas residency such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days.
Mail your completed process, documents, and the renewal fee to the DPS address listed on the form. DPS will process your process and mail your new license to the address you provide. The entire process takes 7 to 10 business days after DPS receives your envelope. Keep in mind that mail can be delayed, so send your process at least two weeks before your license expires if you need it for travel or identification purposes.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
You must renew in person if your license expired more than two years ago, if you need to change your name or address, if you want a new photo, or if you are changing your license class. Bring your current license, your Social Security number, and proof of Texas residency. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government document showing your current address and dated within the last 90 days.
You can schedule an appointment online through the Texas DPS website or visit a DPS office as a walk-in. Appointments are faster and reduce wait time, but walk-ins are served when staff capacity allows. Bring all required documents to avoid a second trip. The renewal fee varies depending on your license type and how many years you are renewing for, but standard renewals typically cost between $25 and $50.
Changing your name or address on your license
If you have legally changed your name, you must renew in person and bring a certified copy of your name change document, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. DPS will update your license with your new name and issue a new license with a new number.
If you have moved within Texas, you can update your address online during online renewal if your license is still valid and you have no other changes. If your license is expired or you need to make other changes at the same time, renew in person. Bring proof of your new address dated within the last 90 days, such as a utility bill or lease agreement.
What documents you need for each renewal method
| Renewal Method | Documents Required | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Current valid license, Social Security number, date of birth | 1 business day approval; 5–7 days delivery |
| DL-44 form, current license copy, proof of residency, renewal fee | 7–10 business days | |
| In-person | Current license, Social Security number, proof of residency, renewal fee | 30 minutes average |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my 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 expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. DPS treats this as a new process rather than a renewal, so the process may take longer.
How much does it cost to renew a Texas driver's license?
Standard renewal fees range from $25 to $50 depending on your license type and the number of years you are renewing for. A four-year renewal costs less than an eight-year renewal. You can pay online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office.
What counts as proof of residency for license renewal?
Proof of residency must show your current address and be dated within the last 90 days. Acceptable documents include utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, bank statements, or government mail. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of Texas residency.
Do I need an appointment to renew my license in person?
Appointments are not required but are recommended because they reduce wait time. You can schedule an appointment online through the Texas DPS website or visit any DPS office as a walk-in. Walk-ins are served based on office capacity and current demand.
Can I renew my license online if I changed my address?
No, online renewal is only for standard renewals with no changes to your name or address. If you moved, you must renew in person or by mail and provide proof of your new address. Bring a utility bill, lease, or other document dated within the last 90 days showing your current address.