Washington driver's license renewal basics
Washington lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Department of Licensing office. Most people can renew online if their license hasn't been suspended, revoked, or expired for more than five years. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs $72 for an eight-year license. You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and a payment method.
If you can't renew online — because your license is too old, you need to change your address, or you want to update your photo — you'll go to a local licensing office. Bring your current license, proof of residency (like a utility bill or lease), and payment. The in-person appointment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
Key Takeaways
- Washington's online renewal takes 10 minutes and works if your license expired less than five years ago and hasn't been suspended or revoked.
- The standard eight-year license costs $72 to renew, whether you go online or in person.
- You can renew by mail by downloading the DL 44 form from the Department of Licensing website, but it takes longer than online or in-person renewal.
- If you need a new photo or want to change your address, you must renew in person at a licensing office.
- Your new license arrives by mail within 5 to 10 business days after online renewal, or you receive it when ready if you renew in person.
Online renewal through the Department of Licensing website
Go to dol.wa.gov and select "Renew Your License" from the homepage. You'll answer questions about your current license, confirm your address, and pay the $72 fee with a debit or credit card. The system will ask whether you want to keep your current photo or upload a new one taken within the last six months. If you upload a new photo, it must show your face clearly against a plain background — no sunglasses, hats, or filters.
After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation number by email. Your new license ships within 5 to 10 business days. You can use your old license until the new one arrives. If you don't receive your license within two weeks, contact the Department of Licensing at 360-902-3900 to check the status.
In-person renewal at a licensing office
Find your nearest office at dol.wa.gov/offices. You can book an appointment online or walk in, though wait times are usually shorter with an appointment. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address), and payment in cash, check, or card.
The staff will take a new photo, verify your information, and process your renewal on the spot. You'll receive your new license when ready — you can drive home with it that day. If you need a replacement while your new license is being printed, ask for a temporary paper license valid for 30 days.
Mail renewal using the DL 44 form
read the DL 44 form from dol.wa.gov, fill it out completely, and mail it with a copy of your current license and a check or money order for $72 to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a new photo if you want to update it; otherwise, your current photo will be used.
Mail renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks from the time the Department receives your packet. There's no way to track it online, so if you haven't received your license after six weeks, call 360-902-3900. This method is slower than online or in-person renewal and is best used only if you can't access a computer or a licensing office.
When you must renew in person
You cannot renew online or by mail if your license has been suspended or revoked, if you need to change your name, if you want to update your address and don't have current proof of residency, or if your license expired more than five years ago. You also must renew in person if you want a new photo or if you're changing your gender marker on your license.
If your license was suspended for unpaid traffic tickets or child support, you'll need to resolve that issue before the Department will process your renewal. Contact the agency that suspended your license — usually the court or the Department of Social and Health Services — to find out what's required.
License types and renewal costs
Washington offers a standard eight-year license for $72 and a four-year license for $36. Most people renew the eight-year license. If you're over 65, you can get a four-year license at no cost, but you must renew in person and bring proof of age.
If you want a Real ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic flights starting May 2025), the cost is the same — $72 for eight years. You'll need to show proof of citizenship or legal residency, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address. Real ID renewal must happen in person.
What to do if your license is lost or stolen
If your license was lost or stolen, you cannot renew it — you must get a replacement. Go to a licensing office with proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID) and proof of residency. The replacement costs $20 and takes about 15 minutes. Your new license arrives by mail within 5 to 10 business days.
If you're worried about identity theft because your license was stolen, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at no cost. This makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Washington license if I live out of state?
Yes. You can renew online as long as your license hasn't been suspended or expired for more than five years. If you need to renew in person, you'll have to visit a Washington licensing office or use mail renewal with the DL 44 form.
What happens if my license expires before my renewal arrives?
Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives, even if the expiration date has passed. You can drive legally during that window. If you're stopped by police, show them your old license and the confirmation email from your online renewal.
Do I need an appointment to renew in person?
Appointments are not required, but they usually have shorter wait times. You can book one online at dol.wa.gov/offices or walk in. Walk-in wait times vary by location and time of day.
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket?
Yes, an unpaid ticket alone won't stop your renewal. However, if a court has suspended your license for unpaid fines, you must resolve that before renewing. Contact the court that issued the ticket to find out your options.
How long is my new license valid?
A standard Washington license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. If you're over 65 and choose a four-year license, it's valid for four years. Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license.