How to Renew Your Washington Driver's License

Washington Renewal: Online, by Mail, or In Person

Washington lets you renew your driver's license in three ways: online through the Department of Licensing website, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or in person at a licensing office. Most people renew online because it takes about 10 minutes and you can do it from home. You are may be able to access to renew online if your license is not expired by more than five years, you have no medical conditions that need review, and your address on file is current.

If you cannot renew online, you can renew by mail by requesting a renewal packet from the Department of Licensing, or you can walk into any licensing office with your documents. The method you choose depends on how soon you need your new license and whether your situation has changed since your last renewal.

Key Takeaways

Washington's online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and works if your license expired less than five years ago and you have no medical holds.
You will need your current Washington driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method to renew online.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the Department of Licensing receives your packet, so request yours early if you need it by a specific date.
In-person renewal at a licensing office is the fastest option if you need your new license the same day, though wait times vary by location.
Your new license will arrive by mail within 10 business days of approval, whether you renewed online, by mail, or in person.

Renewing Online Through the Department of Licensing

Go to dol.wa.gov and select "Renew Your License" from the homepage. You will need your current Washington driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a credit or debit card. The system will ask you to confirm your address, verify your identity by answering security questions based on your driving record, and review the renewal fee, which is $72 for an eight-year license as of 2024.

After you submit your payment, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need to check the status of your renewal, you can return to the Department of Licensing website and enter your confirmation number.

Renewing by Mail

To renew by mail, contact the Department of Licensing at 360-902-3900 or visit a licensing office in person to request a renewal packet. The packet will include a form, instructions, and an envelope. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee ($72 for an eight-year license), and mail it to the address provided in the packet.

Processing takes two to three weeks from the time the Department of Licensing receives your packet. Your new license will then be mailed to you, adding another five to seven business days. If you are close to your expiration date, renew online or in person instead, since mail renewal is the slowest option.

Renewing In Person at a Licensing Office

Walk into any Washington Department of Licensing office with your current driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment. You do not need an appointment, though some offices accept them to reduce wait time. Bring a credit card, debit card, or check.

The renewal process at the office takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. You will have your photo taken, answer a few questions to confirm your information, and pay the renewal fee. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your permanent license will arrive by mail within 10 business days.

What Happens If Your License Expired More Than Five Years Ago

If your Washington license has been expired for more than five years, you cannot renew it—you must reapply as a new driver. This means you will need to pass the written test and the road test again, just as you did when you first got your license. You will also need to provide proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.

Start by taking the written knowledge test at a licensing office. Once you pass, you will receive a learner's permit and can schedule your road test. After you pass the road test, you will receive your new license. This process takes longer than a straightforward renewal, so if your license is close to the five-year mark, renew it before it expires.

Medical Conditions and License Restrictions

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive—such as vision problems, hearing loss, or a seizure disorder—you may not be able to renew online. The Department of Licensing will contact you if a medical review is needed. In that case, you will have to renew in person or by mail, and you may need to provide a medical report from your doctor.

Some conditions result in restrictions on your license, such as corrective lenses required, hearing aid required, or daylight driving only. These restrictions will appear on your new license. If your condition has changed since your last renewal, tell the licensing office or note it on your mail renewal form.

Renewal Fees and Payment Methods

A standard eight-year Washington driver's license renewal costs $72 as of 2024. If you are 65 or older, the fee is $36 for an eight-year license. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or check. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only. Mail renewal accepts checks or money orders. In-person renewal accepts all three methods.

The fee covers the cost of producing and mailing your new license. There are no additional hidden fees. If you renew in person and receive a temporary paper license, there is no extra charge for it.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. If you no longer live in Washington, you cannot renew a Washington license. You will need to get a driver's license from your new state instead. Contact that state's Department of Motor Vehicles to find out what documents you need and whether your Washington license can be transferred.

What if I lost my current license and need to renew?

You cannot renew online if you do not have your license number. Call the Department of Licensing at 360-902-3900 and they can look up your number using your name and date of birth. Once you have your number, you can renew online. Alternatively, go to a licensing office in person with your ID and proof of residency, and they can help you renew and issue a replacement at the same time.

How long does my temporary paper license last?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days. Your permanent license should arrive by mail within 10 business days, so you will have it before the temporary expires. If your permanent license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the Department of Licensing.

Can I renew early, before my license expires?

Yes. Washington allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early is a good idea if you are planning a trip or want to avoid a last-minute rush. Your new license will have a new expiration date eight years from the date you renew.

What if I need my license renewed by a specific date?

Renew online or in person. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and your license arrives within 10 business days. In-person renewal gives you a temporary license the same day. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks plus mailing time, so it is not reliable if you have a important date.

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.