How to Renew Your Washington Driver's License

Renewing your Washington driver's license online, by mail, or in person

Washington lets you renew your driver's license through three routes: online at dol.wa.gov, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or in person at a Department of Licensing office. Most people renew online because it takes about 10 minutes and you can do it from home. Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you cannot renew online — because your license is expired by more than five years, or you need to update your address or name — you will need to go to an office or mail in an process.

Washington licenses are valid for eight years from the date you turn a certain age (the expiration date is printed on your current license). You can start renewing up to one year before your license expires. The state recommends renewing at least two weeks before expiration to avoid driving with an expired license, though you have a grace period of up to 60 days after expiration to renew without penalty.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal at dol.wa.gov takes about 10 minutes and works if your license is current and you have not changed your name or address since your last renewal.
Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, so plan ahead if you need it by a specific date.
If your license expired more than five years ago, or you need to change your name or address, you must renew in person at a Department of Licensing office or by mail with a completed process.
Washington licenses are valid for eight years, and you can start renewing up to one year before expiration.
You have up to 60 days after expiration to renew without additional fees or penalties.

Online renewal: the fastest route for most people

To renew online, go to dol.wa.gov and select the driver's license renewal option. You will need your current Washington driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit card, credit card, or electronic check). The fee is $72 for an eight-year renewal. You will answer questions to confirm your identity and current information, then submit. The system will tell you when ready whether your renewal went through.

Online renewal works only if your license is not expired by more than five years, you have not changed your name or address since your last renewal, and you do not need to update your photo. If any of those conditions do not explore to you, you cannot use the online system and must renew by mail or in person.

Renewing by mail when online is not an option

To renew by mail, read the Driver License or Identicard process (form DL 44) from dol.wa.gov. Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it with a check or money order for $72 to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of a document that proves your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. If you are changing your name, include a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Mail your process to the Department of Licensing address shown on the form. Processing takes 10 to 15 business days from the date they receive it, plus mail time in both directions. Your new license will arrive by mail. Keep track of when you mailed it; if you do not receive your license within three weeks, contact the Department of Licensing to check the status.

Renewing in person at a Department of Licensing office

Walk into any Department of Licensing office with your current driver's license, proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days), and $72. If you are changing your name, bring the certified document that shows the change. You will have your photo taken and your new license will be printed on the spot. You can drive home with a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is mailed to you.

Office wait times vary by location and time of day. The Department of Licensing website shows current wait times for each office. Offices are open Monday through Friday, with some locations open Saturday mornings. You do not need an appointment; licensing is first-come, first-served.

Changing your name or address during renewal

If you are changing your name, you must renew in person or by mail — the online system does not allow name changes. Bring a certified copy of the document that caused the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers. The Department of Licensing will not accept photocopies or uncertified documents.

If you are changing your address only, you can renew online as long as your license is not expired by more than five years and you have not changed your name. The online system will ask for your new address and update it automatically. If you are changing both your name and address, or if your license is expired by more than five years, renew in person or by mail.

What happens if your license expires

You have up to 60 days after expiration to renew without any additional fees or penalties. After 60 days, you cannot legally drive, and you will need to pass the written test and vision test again when you renew — not just pay the renewal fee. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you cannot renew online and must go to an office or mail in an process.

If you are stopped by police while driving with an expired license, you may receive a ticket. The fine varies but is typically $138 for a license expired less than one year. Renewing as soon as you notice expiration is the simplest way to avoid this.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Washington license if I live out of state?

Yes. You can renew online if your license is current and you have not changed your name or address. If you need to change your address to an out-of-state address, you can still renew online — just enter your new address in the system. If you cannot renew online, you can renew by mail using form DL 44.

What if I lost my license and need to renew at the same time?

You cannot renew online if your license is lost. Go to a Department of Licensing office with proof of identity (passport, state ID, or birth certificate) and proof of your current address. You will pay $72 for the renewal plus a $20 replacement fee for the lost license. Your new license will be printed on the spot.

How long does my temporary paper license last?

If you renew in person, your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days. Your permanent license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If your permanent license does not arrive within 30 days, contact the Department of Licensing — you may need to get another temporary license.

Do I need to renew if I only have a Washington ID card, not a driver's license?

Washington ID cards follow the same renewal rules as driver's licenses. You can renew online, by mail, or in person using the same methods and fees. The online system at dol.wa.gov has a separate option for ID card renewal.

What if my vision or medical condition has changed since my last license?

If you have concerns about your ability to drive safely, you can renew in person and mention this to the licensing agent. Washington may require a vision test or medical evaluation depending on your age and condition. You cannot skip this by renewing online — you must go to an office.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.