What You Can and Cannot Do Online
Most states let you renew your ID card online if it has not expired yet and you have not changed your address, name, or other key information. The online process is usually faster than going to an office — often taking 10 to 15 minutes — and your new card arrives by mail in one to three weeks.
You cannot renew online if your ID is already expired, if you need to update your address or legal name, if you are renewing after a name change from marriage or court order, or if your state requires a new photo. Some states also require in-person renewal if you are over a certain age (often 70 or older). Check your state's DMV website first to confirm whether online renewal is open to you.
If you do not meet the requirements for online renewal, you will need to visit a DMV office in person. That process is the same as a standard ID renewal, just done at a location instead of on a computer.
Key Takeaways
- Online ID renewal works only if your card has not expired and you have not changed your address, name, or photo requirements.
- You will need your current ID card number, a valid payment method, and an email address to start the online process.
- Your state's DMV website will tell you whether you are may be able to access to renew online before you begin.
- The new card is mailed to your current address on file and typically arrives within one to three weeks.
- If you need to change your address or name, you must renew in person at a DMV office instead.
Steps to Renew Your ID Card Online
Start by going to your state's official DMV website. Look for a link labeled "Renew ID Card Online," "Online Renewal," or "Renew Your ID." Each state names this section differently, but it is usually on the homepage or under a "Services" or "Renewals" menu.
Once you are on the renewal page, you will be asked to enter your current ID card number and your date of birth. The system will pull up your record and show you the information on file. Review it carefully — if anything is wrong, you cannot fix it online and will need to visit an office instead.
Next, you will confirm your mailing address. This is where your new card will be sent. If you have moved since your last renewal, you cannot complete the online process; you must go to an office to update your address first.
You will then choose a payment method. Most states accept credit cards, debit cards, and sometimes electronic check payments. The renewal fee varies by state, typically ranging from $15 to $50. After payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation number by email. Save this number in case you need to check on your order later.
What Happens After You Submit Your Renewal
Your state's DMV will process your renewal and mail your new card to the address you confirmed during the online process. This usually takes one to three weeks, though some states are faster and others slower depending on mail volume and processing backlogs.
You can use your old ID card until the new one arrives. If you need to check on the status of your order, most states let you look it up on their DMV website using your confirmation number and date of birth.
If your new card does not arrive within the timeframe your state gave you, contact the DMV directly. Have your confirmation number ready. Some states have a phone line for renewal inquiries; others use online chat or email.
When You Must Renew in Person Instead
If your ID card has already expired, you cannot use the online renewal process. You will need to visit a DMV office and bring your expired card, proof of residency, and proof of identity. The in-person renewal takes longer but allows the DMV to issue a new card on the spot or mail it to you depending on your state's rules.
If you have changed your legal name — through marriage, divorce, or court order — you must renew in person. Bring your current ID, a certified copy of the document that shows your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and proof of your new address if you have moved.
If your state requires a new photo and you are renewing online, you will not be able to submit one. You will have to go to an office where they can take a new photo of you. The same applies if your state's rules say you must renew in person based on your age or the length of time since your last renewal.
Documents and Information You Will Need
Before you start the online renewal, gather these items: your current ID card (you will need the card number), your date of birth, your current mailing address, and a valid payment method such as a credit card or debit card.
You will also need access to the email address on file with the DMV. Your confirmation number and receipt will be sent there, so make sure you can check that email account. If your email address has changed, update it on your state's DMV website before you begin the renewal, or you may not receive your confirmation.
Do not start the renewal process if you are missing your current ID card or cannot remember your card number. Call your state's DMV or visit an office to get a replacement card first, or to look up your card number.
Fees and Payment Methods
The cost of renewing your ID card online is the same as renewing in person at a DMV office. Fees vary by state and typically range from $15 to $50 for a standard ID card renewal. Some states charge extra if you want a REAL ID-compliant card, which is required for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight.
Most states accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover cards for online renewal. Some also accept debit cards or electronic check payments. A few states may charge a small processing fee on top of the renewal fee if you pay by card.
Check your state's DMV website to see the exact fee for your renewal and what payment methods are accepted. The fee will be shown before you complete the transaction, so you will know the total cost before your card is charged.
Tracking Your New Card and What to Do If It Does Not Arrive
After you submit your online renewal, you will receive a confirmation email with a confirmation number. Keep this email. Most states let you track your card's status on their DMV website by entering your confirmation number and date of birth.
Your new card should arrive within the timeframe your state provided during the renewal process — usually one to three weeks. Mail delivery times can vary, especially during holidays or bad weather. If your card does not arrive within a week after the expected date, contact your state's DMV.
When you call or contact the DMV, have your confirmation number ready. They can tell you whether the card was mailed, whether there was a problem with your address, or whether it was lost in the mail. If it was lost, they can reissue it or issue a replacement. Some states may charge a fee for a replacement card if it was not their error.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my ID card online if it is expired?
No. Online renewal is only for cards that have not expired yet. If your card is expired, you must visit a DMV office in person. Bring your expired card, proof of identity, and proof of your current address.
What if I moved since my last ID card renewal?
You cannot renew online if you have changed your address. You must go to a DMV office in person to update your address and renew your card at the same time. Bring your current ID, proof of your new address (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of identity.
How long does it take to get my new card after I renew online?
Most states mail your new card within one to three weeks of processing your renewal. The exact timeframe depends on your state and current mail volume. You can track your card's status on your state's DMV website using your confirmation number.
Can I use my old ID card while I wait for the new one to arrive?
Yes. Your old ID card remains valid until your new card arrives. You can continue to use it for identification purposes. Once your new card arrives, the old one is no longer valid.
What should I do if my new card never arrives?
Contact your state's DMV with your confirmation number. They can check whether the card was mailed and to which address. If it was lost in the mail, they can reissue it or send a replacement. Some states charge a fee for a replacement if it was not their error.