How to Renew Your Louisiana Driver's License

What you need to renew in Louisiana

Louisiana lets you renew your driver's license in person at an Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV), by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the state's website. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time is left before it expires, and whether you need to update your address or other information.

If your license expired less than one year ago, you can renew by mail or online. If it expired more than one year ago, you must renew in person at an OMV office. If your license is still valid but expiring soon, all three methods are open to you.

Before you start, gather your current Louisiana driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). You will also need to pay the renewal fee, which varies depending on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid.

Key Takeaways

You can renew online or by mail if your license expired less than one year ago; if it expired more than a year ago, you must go to an OMV office in person.
Online renewal through the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website is the fastest option if you are may be able to access and do not need to change your address or photograph.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send your current license, proof of address, and payment to the address provided by the OMV.
In-person renewal at an OMV office takes about 30 minutes to an hour and is required if your license has been expired for more than one year or if you need a new photograph.
Louisiana driver's licenses are valid for four, six, or eight years depending on your age and the type of license you hold.

Renewing online through the Louisiana OMV website

Online renewal is the quickest method if your license is still valid or expired less than one year ago, and you do not need to update your photograph or address. Go to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website and select the online renewal option. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to start.

The system will verify your information and show you the renewal fee. You can pay by debit card or credit card. Once your payment is processed, your new license will be mailed to the address on file. If you need to change your address before renewing, you must do so in person or by mail first.

Online renewal does not include a new photograph, so your new license will use the photo from your current license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at an OMV office.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal works if your license expired less than one year ago and you do not need a new photograph. Contact your local OMV office or visit the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website to request a mail renewal form and instructions. The form will tell you exactly what documents to send and where to mail them.

You will need to include your current license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and a check or money order for the renewal fee made out to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles. Do not send cash. Mail your packet to the address provided on the form.

Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the OMV receives your packet. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provided. If you need your license sooner, in-person renewal is faster.

Renewing in person at an OMV office

In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than one year ago, if you want a new photograph, or if you need to change your address or other information on your license. Find your nearest OMV office on the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website and check its hours before you go. Many offices operate by appointment, so you may need to book a time slot online or by phone.

Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and payment for the renewal fee. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The staff will take a new photograph, verify your information, and process your renewal on the spot.

Renewal at an OMV office usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while your permanent license is being mailed to you. Your new license typically arrives within two weeks.

Understanding Louisiana license types and validity periods

Louisiana offers different types of driver's licenses, and the length of time your license is valid depends on your age and the type of license you hold. A standard Class D license for drivers 21 and older is valid for four, six, or eight years, depending on which validity period you choose when you renew. You pay a higher fee for a longer validity period.

Drivers under 21 receive a license valid for four years. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) are valid for four years. If you hold a CDL, you must renew in person and may need to pass a written test or medical examination depending on the type of commercial driving you do.

When you renew, you can choose to extend your license for four, six, or eight years. The longer the validity period, the higher the fee. Most people choose the longest period available to avoid renewing as often.

What to do if your license has been expired for more than a year

If your Louisiana driver's license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must go to an OMV office in person. Bring the same documents you would for a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and payment for the renewal fee.

The OMV staff will process your renewal the same way they would for any other in-person renewal. You will receive a temporary paper license and your permanent license will be mailed to you within two weeks. There is no penalty for renewing late, but you cannot legally drive until your renewal is complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Louisiana license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your license up to six months before it expires. Renewing early is a good idea if you know you will be busy or traveling when your expiration date approaches. Your new license will be valid for the full period you choose, starting from the date you renew.

What if I moved and need to update my address?

If you are renewing online or by mail, you cannot change your address as part of the renewal. You must update your address in person at an OMV office first, then renew. If you are renewing in person, you can update your address and renew at the same time.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

Online and mail renewals take two to three weeks from the date the OMV processes your request. In-person renewals are faster: you receive a temporary paper license when ready, and your permanent license arrives by mail within two weeks.

Do I need a new photograph when I renew?

No, unless you renew in person. Online and mail renewals use your current photograph. If you want a new photo, you must renew at an OMV office. You can also request a new photo during an in-person renewal even if you do not need one.

What happens if I let my license expire while I am out of state?

You can renew by mail or online if your license expired less than one year ago, even if you are living outside Louisiana. If it expired more than one year ago, you will need to return to Louisiana to renew in person at an OMV 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.