The fastest way to renew in Texas is online, but not everyone can use it
Texas lets you renew your driver's license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website if you meet certain conditions: your license must not be expired by more than two years, you must have a valid email address on file, and you cannot have certain medical conditions or restrictions that require in-person review. If you may have access to, the online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than going in person.
If you don't meet the online requirements, or if you prefer to renew in person, you'll visit a DPS Driver License office. Texas has offices in most counties, and you can find your nearest one on the DPS website by entering your zip code. Walk-in appointments are available, but wait times vary by location and time of day — some offices are busier than others, especially on Fridays and at the end of the month.
A third option is to renew by mail if your license expired more than two years ago and you're unable to visit an office. This route takes longer but may work if you live far from a DPS office or have mobility challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the Texas DPS website is the fastest option if your license expired less than two years ago and you have no medical restrictions.
- In-person renewal at a DPS Driver License office works for anyone, takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on wait time, and requires your current license or ID plus proof of residency.
- Mail-in renewal is available only if your license expired more than two years ago; you'll need to send documents to the DPS and wait several weeks.
- You can find your nearest DPS office and check current wait times on the Texas DPS website before you go.
Online renewal through the Texas DPS website
To renew online, go to the Texas DPS website and look for the "Renew Your Driver License" option. You'll need your current Texas driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and pull up your existing information.
Online renewal costs $16 for a two-year license or $32 for a five-year license. You'll pay by credit or debit card during the process. Once approved, your new license will be mailed to the address on file, usually within 7 to 10 business days.
You cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you have a medical condition that requires DPS review, if you've had certain traffic violations, or if your address has changed and you need to update it. In any of these cases, you must visit a DPS office in person.
In-person renewal at a DPS Driver License office
Walk into any DPS Driver License office in Texas with your current license or state ID and proof of residency. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days. The office staff will take a new photo, verify your information, and process your renewal on the spot.
The entire visit usually takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the office is. You'll pay the same fees as online renewal — $16 for two years or $32 for five years — and you can pay by cash, check, or card. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days, or you can request a temporary paper license to use while you wait.
In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than two years ago, if you have medical restrictions, if you've changed your address, or if you want to update your name or other information on your license. It's also the only option if you don't have internet access or prefer not to renew online.
Mail-in renewal for licenses expired more than two years
If your Texas driver's license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew online or at a regular DPS office. Instead, you'll mail your process and documents to the DPS address listed on their website. You'll need to complete an process form (DL-44), include a copy of your expired license, and provide proof of residency.
Mail-in renewal takes significantly longer than other methods — typically four to six weeks from the time the DPS receives your documents. You'll also pay a late renewal fee on top of the standard license fee. Because of the delay, consider whether visiting a DPS office in person might be faster for your situation.
Finding your nearest DPS Driver License office
The Texas DPS website has a location finder tool where you enter your zip code and see all nearby offices, their hours, and current wait times. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only, while others have Saturday hours. A few larger offices stay open until 6 p.m., but most close by 5 p.m.
Wait times are updated throughout the day on the website, so you can check before you leave home. If your local office has a long wait, you may be able to visit a different office in your area with a shorter line. Some people find that visiting early in the morning or mid-week results in shorter waits than Friday afternoons.
What to bring to a DPS office
Bring your current Texas driver's license or state ID card. If you don't have either, bring a passport or passport card. You'll also need proof of residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days. The name on your proof of residency should match the name on your ID.
If you've changed your name since your license was issued, bring a document showing the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're renewing for the first time after turning 18, bring your birth certificate or passport as well.
Costs and payment methods
A standard two-year Texas driver's license costs $16, and a five-year license costs $32. These prices are the same whether you renew online or in person. If your license expired more than two years ago, you'll pay an additional late fee on top of the standard renewal cost.
At a DPS office, you can pay with cash, check, or debit or credit card. Online, you can only pay with a debit or credit card. The DPS does not accept payment plans or installments — the full amount is due at the time of renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas driver's license before it expires?
Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. This is useful if you're planning a trip or want to avoid the rush closer to your expiration date. The new license will have a new expiration date based on when you renew, not when your current license expires.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
After you renew online or in person, your new license is mailed to the address on file and usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before it arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at a DPS office that's valid for 45 days.
What if my address changed since my last license?
You must renew in person at a DPS office if your address has changed. Bring proof of your new residency (a utility bill or lease dated within 90 days) along with your current license and ID. The office will update your address during the renewal process.
Can I renew someone else's license for them?
No. The person whose license is being renewed must be present at the DPS office. Online renewal requires the license holder's personal information and email address. If someone is unable to visit an office due to disability or age, contact your local DPS office to ask about accommodations.
What happens if I drive with an expired license while waiting for my renewal?
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Texas, even if you've already renewed and are waiting for your new license to arrive. If you renewed in person, ask for a temporary paper license before you leave the office. If you renewed online, you can visit a DPS office to get a temporary license while you wait for your new one.