Washington driver's licenses expire every five years, and you can renew yours online, by mail, or in person at a Department of Licensing office
Washington State issues driver's licenses that are valid for five years from the date of issue. When your license is about to expire, you have three ways to renew: online through the Department of Licensing website, by mail using a renewal form, or in person at a local licensing office. The method you choose depends on whether your address has changed, whether you need a new photo, and how quickly you need the renewed license in hand.
You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, so you do not have to wait until the expiration date. If your license has already expired, you can still renew it using the same methods, though an expired license cannot be used for identification purposes in the meantime.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal takes about one week and costs $72 if your address has not changed and you do not need a new photo.
- Mail renewal requires the renewal notice sent by the Department of Licensing and takes two to three weeks; you keep your current photo.
- In-person renewal at a licensing office takes about 30 minutes and is required if you have changed your address, want a new photo, or need to update your name.
- You will need your current license, proof of Washington residency, and payment by debit card, credit card, or check depending on your renewal method.
- Washington accepts REAL ID-compliant licenses, which require additional documents if you are renewing in person and do not already have one.
Renewing online through the Department of Licensing website
Online renewal is the fastest option if your information has not changed. Go to the Department of Licensing website, select "Renew Your Driver's License," and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and show you the renewal fee.
Online renewal keeps your current photo on file and does not allow you to change your address. If you have moved since your license was issued, you must renew by mail or in person. Payment is by debit card or credit card only; checks are not accepted online. Your renewed license will arrive by mail in about one week.
Renewing by mail with your renewal notice
The Department of Licensing mails a renewal notice to the address on your current license about 60 days before expiration. This notice includes a form you can fill out and mail back with payment. Mail renewal is free to use as a process, but you still pay the standard renewal fee of $72.
To renew by mail, sign the renewal notice, include a check or money order made payable to "Department of Licensing," and mail it to the address printed on the notice. Do not send cash. Your renewed license will arrive in two to three weeks. If you did not receive a renewal notice, you can request one by calling the Department of Licensing at 360-902-3900 or visiting a local office.
Renewing in person at a Department of Licensing office
In-person renewal is required if you have changed your address, want a new photo, need to update your name, or are renewing a REAL ID-compliant license for the first time. Visit any Department of Licensing office with your current license, proof of Washington residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and payment by debit card, credit card, or check. The process takes about 30 minutes.
If you are renewing a REAL ID license, you will also need to bring proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form) and proof of your legal name (such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate). REAL ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner and can be used for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights. Standard licenses without the star cannot be used for those purposes after May 7, 2025.
What documents and information you need
For any renewal method, have your current Washington driver's license ready. For online renewal, you will need your license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. For mail renewal, the renewal notice itself contains all the information needed.
For in-person renewal, bring your current license and one document showing your current Washington address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail. If you are renewing a REAL ID license or updating your name, bring additional documents as listed above. Payment is $72 for a standard five-year renewal; REAL ID renewals cost $72 as well if you already have a REAL ID, or $82 if you are upgrading from a standard license.
Finding a Department of Licensing office near you
Washington has licensing offices in most counties. Use the office locator on the Department of Licensing website to find the nearest one, see its hours, and check current wait times. Many offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time significantly. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment slots often fill up, especially in urban areas.
Some licensing offices have extended hours on certain evenings or Saturdays. If you cannot visit during regular business hours, check the office locator to see whether the location nearest you offers evening or weekend appointments.
What happens if your license expires before you renew
An expired license cannot be used as a valid form of identification, but you can still renew it using any of the three methods described above. There is no penalty fee for renewing an expired license in Washington. However, you should not drive with an expired license; doing so can result in a traffic citation.
If you are stopped by law enforcement with an expired license, you may be cited. Renew your license as soon as possible to avoid this situation. If your license has been expired for more than a few months, renewing online may not be an option; contact the Department of Licensing to confirm which methods are available to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Washington license if I have moved out of state?
No. Washington driver's licenses are only issued to Washington residents. If you have moved out of state, you will need to obtain a license from your new state. Contact that state's licensing agency to learn about their requirements and process.
How much does it cost to renew a Washington driver's license?
A standard five-year renewal costs $72. If you are upgrading to a REAL ID-compliant license for the first time, the cost is $82. If you already have a REAL ID and are renewing it, the cost remains $72. Fees are the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person.
What if I lost my renewal notice?
You can still renew by mail or in person without the notice. Call the Department of Licensing at 360-902-3900 to request a replacement notice, or visit a local office with your current license and proof of residency. Online renewal does not require the notice.
Can I renew my license if my name has changed?
Yes, but you must renew in person at a Department of Licensing office. Bring your current license, proof of your legal name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order), and proof of Washington residency. The office will update your name and issue a new license.
How long does it take to receive my renewed license after I explore?
Online renewal takes about one week by mail. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks. In-person renewal is when ready if you renew at a licensing office; you receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your plastic card arrives by mail within one week.