Washington lets you renew online if your license is not expired and you meet a few basic requirements
You can renew your Washington driver's license through the Department of Licensing website without visiting an office, as long as your current license has not yet expired and you have not had certain violations or changes since your last renewal. The online process takes about 10 minutes, costs the same as renewing in person, and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Not everyone can use the online route. If your license is already expired, if you need to change your address, if you have had a suspension or revocation, or if you are renewing a commercial driver's license, you must go to a licensing office instead. Washington also requires you to pass a vision screening before you can renew, and the online system includes that step.
Key Takeaways
- You can renew online only if your current Washington license has not expired yet.
- The online renewal process includes a vision screening that you complete at home using your computer's camera.
- Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days after you finish the online process.
- If your license is expired, suspended, or you need to change your address, you must renew in person at a Department of Licensing office.
- Online renewal costs the same as in-person renewal and accepts credit or debit card payment.
What you need before you start the online renewal
Gather these items before you begin: your current Washington driver's license, a valid email address, and a device with a camera and internet connection (a smartphone, tablet, or computer). You will also need a credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee.
The vision screening happens during the online process, so you do not need to visit an eye doctor first. However, you must be in a well-lit space where you can hold your device steady and see the vision test clearly. If you wear glasses or contacts for driving, have them on when you take the test.
Steps to renew your license online
Go to the Washington Department of Licensing website and select "Renew Your License Online." You will be asked to enter your driver's license number and date of birth to verify your identity. The system will confirm that you are may be able to access to renew online.
Once verified, you will answer questions about any changes since your last renewal — such as a new address, a medical condition, or a name change. Answer honestly; if you have had any suspensions, revocations, or violations, the system will tell you that you cannot continue online and must visit an office instead.
Next comes the vision screening. The website will guide you through a test that checks your ability to see letters and numbers on your screen. You hold your device at arm's length and respond to what you see. This takes a few minutes and happens in real time as part of the online session.
After the vision test, you will review your information, confirm your mailing address (where your new license will be sent), and pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card. Once payment goes through, you are done. You will receive a confirmation email with a reference number.
How long it takes and what happens next
The entire online process takes 10 to 15 minutes from start to finish. After you submit your payment, the Department of Licensing processes your renewal and mails your new license to the address you provided. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer depending on your location.
You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait for the new one to arrive. Your current license remains valid until its expiration date, even after you have completed the online renewal. Once your new license arrives, the old one is no longer valid.
If you do not receive your new license within 10 business days, check your confirmation email for the reference number and contact the Department of Licensing to track your renewal.
When you cannot renew online
If your license has already expired, you cannot use the online system. You must visit a Department of Licensing office in person. The same applies if you have had a suspension, revocation, or denial since your last renewal — the online system will detect this and direct you to an office.
You also cannot renew online if you need to change your address, update your name, or add or remove restrictions (such as corrective lenses or hearing aid requirements). Address changes must be done in person or through a separate address-change process at the Department of Licensing website.
If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), you cannot renew online under any circumstances. Commercial renewals always require an in-person visit and a road test if your CDL is expiring.
The renewal fee and payment
Washington charges a flat fee for driver's license renewal, regardless of whether you renew online or in person. The fee covers an eight-year license. The Department of Licensing website displays the current fee amount before you pay, so you will know the exact cost before entering your payment information.
The online system accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. There are no additional processing fees for paying online. Your payment is processed when ready, and you receive a confirmation email right away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew online if my license expires next month?
Yes. You can renew online anytime before your license expires. Many people renew 30 to 60 days before expiration to may support their new license arrives before the old one expires. You cannot renew online after your license has already expired.
What if I fail the vision screening?
If you do not pass the vision screening, the system will tell you when ready and stop the renewal process. You will need to visit a Department of Licensing office in person. Bring corrective lenses if you use them, or be prepared to discuss vision correction options with the licensing examiner.
Do I need to print anything or bring documents to the mailbox?
No. The entire process is online. You do not print anything, sign anything, or mail anything back. Once you submit your payment, the Department of Licensing handles everything and mails your new license to you.
What if I moved since my last license was issued?
If you moved, you cannot complete the renewal online. You must visit a Department of Licensing office in person to update your address at the same time you renew. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
Can I renew online if I have a suspended license?
No. If your license is suspended or revoked, the online system will detect this and prevent you from continuing. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with the Department of Licensing before you can renew, and the renewal must happen in person at an office.