What you need to know about Texas ID renewal
A Texas identification card (ID) renewal is straightforward: you visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, bring the documents they require, pay the renewal fee, and receive a new card. Most renewals take about 15 minutes at the counter. You can renew in person, by mail, or online depending on your situation and how much time you have.
The process differs slightly depending on whether your ID is expired, expiring soon, or still valid. If your card expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew by mail or online—you must go in person. If it expired within the last two years or is still valid, you have more options.
Key Takeaways
- Texas ID cards expire every five or eight years depending on your age, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office requires your current ID, proof of residency, and the renewal fee; it takes about 15 minutes.
- Mail and online renewal are available only if your card expired within the last two years or has not yet expired.
- The renewal fee varies by card type and validity period; check the DPS website or call your local office for the exact amount.
- Your new card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days for in-person renewal, or within 2 to 3 weeks for mail renewal.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
Walk into any Texas DPS office with your current ID, proof of residency, and payment. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your current address. Bring the original document or a certified copy—a photo will not work.
You will fill out an process form (DL 43) at the office. The DPS staff will take a new photo and fingerprints. You pay the renewal fee at the counter and receive a receipt. Your new ID arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your receipt as proof of identity until the card arrives.
In-person renewal works for anyone, regardless of how long ago your card expired. It is the only option if your ID expired more than two years ago.
Mail renewal for recently expired or valid cards
If your Texas ID expired within the last two years or has not yet expired, you can renew by mail. Send your current ID, a completed process (DL 43), proof of residency, and the renewal fee to the address listed on the DPS website. Do not send cash—use a check or money order.
Mail your renewal package to the DPS office that serves your county. You can find the correct address on the Texas DPS website by entering your county. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the DPS receives your package. Your new card arrives by mail after approval.
Mail renewal is slower than in-person, but it saves a trip to the office. You lose your current ID when you mail it in, so plan ahead if you need it for anything during the processing period.
Online renewal through the Texas DPS website
Texas residents whose ID has not expired or expired within the last two years can renew online through the official DPS website. You will need your current ID number, date of birth, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card).
The online process takes about 10 minutes. You upload a new photo, review your information, and pay the fee. Your new card is mailed to the address on file. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days after approval. You keep your current ID and can use it until the new one arrives.
Online renewal is the fastest option if your card is still valid or expired recently. It is not available if your ID expired more than two years ago.
Renewal fees and card validity periods
Texas ID renewal fees depend on the type of card and how long you want it to be valid. A standard ID valid for five years costs less than one valid for eight years. Fees also differ for people under 18, over 60, or with certain disabilities. The exact amount changes periodically, so check the DPS website or call your local office before you go.
Standard Texas IDs expire five years from the issue date. If you are 60 or older, you can request an ID valid for eight years. Certain people with disabilities may also be may be able to access for longer validity periods. When you renew, you can choose the validity period that works for you (if you are may be able to access).
What to bring: documents checklist
| Renewal Method | Documents Needed |
|---|---|
| In-person at DPS office | Current ID, proof of residency, payment |
| By mail | Current ID, completed DL 43 form, proof of residency, payment (check or money order) |
| Online | Current ID number, date of birth, payment method (debit or credit card) |
Proof of residency must show your current address and your name. Acceptable documents include a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or government mail. The document must be dated within the last 90 days (for most documents) or within the last year (for property tax bills). Bring the original or a certified copy.
If you have changed your name since your last ID was issued, bring a certified copy of the document proving the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption papers).
After your new card arrives
Your new Texas ID arrives by mail at the address you provided. Check it when ready for errors in your name, date of birth, address, or other information. If something is wrong, contact the DPS office that issued it and request a correction. Corrections are usually free if the error was made by the DPS.
Destroy your old ID once the new one arrives. You do not need to return it to the DPS. Keep your new ID in a safe place—replacing a lost or stolen ID requires an in-person visit to a DPS office and an additional fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas ID if it expired more than two years ago?
No, you must renew in person at a DPS office. Mail and online renewal are not available for IDs expired more than two years. Bring your expired ID, proof of residency, and payment to any DPS office.
How long does it take to get my new card after I renew?
In-person and online renewal take 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the DPS receives your package. These times can vary during busy periods or holidays.
What if I need to use my ID before my new card arrives?
If you renewed in person, you receive a receipt that serves as proof of identity until your new card arrives. If you renewed by mail or online, your old ID is still valid for identification purposes until the new one arrives, though it may be expired.
Can I renew my Texas ID online if I have a disability?
Yes, if your current ID has not expired or expired within the last two years. Online renewal works the same way for everyone. If your ID expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person regardless of disability status.
What happens if there is an error on my new ID?
Contact the DPS office that issued the card as soon as you notice the error. If the DPS made the mistake, they will correct it free of charge. Bring your new ID and proof of the correct information (such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate).