Washington lets you renew your driver license online if you meet a few conditions
You can renew your Washington driver license through the Department of Licensing website without visiting an office, but only if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired for more than five years. You must also have a valid passport, enhanced driver license, or Real ID card to verify your identity. The online process takes about 10 minutes, costs the same as an in-person renewal, and you receive your new license by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
If your license has been suspended or revoked, or if you need to change your name, address, or organ donor status, you must renew in person at a Department of Licensing office or an authorized service provider. The same applies if you are under 21, renewing a commercial driver license, or adding endorsements like a motorcycle or hazmat rating.
Key Takeaways
- You can renew online only if your current license is valid and not expired for more than five years, and you have a passport, enhanced driver license, or Real ID to verify your identity.
- Online renewal costs the same as in-person renewal and takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.
- If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired for longer than five years, you must renew in person at a Department of Licensing office.
- You cannot change your name, address, or organ donor status online; those changes require an in-person visit.
- The online system accepts payment by debit card, credit card, or electronic check.
What you need before you start the online renewal
Gather your current Washington driver license and one of these identity documents: a valid U.S. passport, an enhanced driver license, or a Real ID card. You will also need a debit or credit card, or the ability to pay by electronic check. Have your current address ready, and if you have moved recently, make sure your address is correct before you begin.
Check the expiration date on your license. If it expired more than five years ago, the online system will not accept your renewal. If your license is suspended or revoked, you will see a message telling you to visit an office in person. Do not proceed online in either case.
Steps to renew your license online
Go to the Washington Department of Licensing website and select "Renew Your License" from the main menu. You will be directed to create or log into your account. Enter your driver license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity using the information on file.
Once verified, review your current information on the screen. Confirm your address, phone number, and email address are correct. You cannot change your address online, so if you have moved, you must complete the renewal in person at a Department of Licensing office instead. If everything is correct, proceed to the payment screen.
Select your payment method: debit card, credit card, or electronic check. Enter the payment information and submit. You will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
When you cannot renew online
If your license is suspended or revoked, the online system will reject your renewal and direct you to contact the Department of Licensing by phone at 360-902-3900 or visit an office in person. Suspension usually results from unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or a DUI conviction. Revocation is more serious and typically follows multiple violations or a serious offense. You will need to resolve the underlying issue before you can renew.
If your license expired more than five years ago, you are no longer may be able to access for online renewal. You must visit a Department of Licensing office or an authorized service provider in person. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of Washington residency such as a utility bill or lease.
If you need to change your name, you must renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document that shows the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The same applies if you want to change your organ donor status or add a new endorsement to your license.
How much online renewal costs
A standard four-year driver license renewal costs $72. If you are 65 or older, a four-year renewal costs $36. These prices are the same whether you renew online or in person. Payment is due at the time you submit your renewal, and the system accepts debit cards, credit cards, and electronic checks.
If you are renewing an enhanced driver license or a Real ID card, the cost is higher. An enhanced driver license renewal costs $172 for four years. A Real ID card renewal costs $72 for four years. Check the Department of Licensing website for the most current pricing, as fees can change.
What happens after you submit your online renewal
You will receive a confirmation email with your confirmation number and a receipt. Keep this email for your records. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. During this time, your current license remains valid, so you can continue to drive and use it as identification.
If you do not receive your new license within 10 business days, contact the Department of Licensing at 360-902-3900. Have your confirmation number ready. If your license arrives damaged or with incorrect information, you can request a replacement at no additional cost by calling the same number or visiting the website.
Renewing in person if you cannot go online
If you are ineligible for online renewal, you can renew at any Department of Licensing office or at an authorized service provider such as a vehicle licensing office or some AAA locations. Bring your current driver license, proof of identity, and proof of Washington residency. If you are changing your name, bring the certified document that shows the change.
In-person renewal takes about 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed. The cost is the same as online renewal. Some offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online if it is suspended?
No. The online system will reject your renewal if your license is suspended or revoked. You must contact the Department of Licensing or visit an office in person to resolve the suspension before you can renew. Call 360-902-3900 to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take.
What if I moved and need to change my address?
You cannot change your address online. You must renew in person at a Department of Licensing office or authorized service provider. Bring your current license, proof of identity, and proof of your new Washington address such as a utility bill or lease. Your new license will show the updated address.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?
Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your current license remains valid during this time, so you can continue to drive and use it as identification. If you do not receive it within 10 business days, contact the Department of Licensing at 360-902-3900.
Can I renew online if my license expired more than five years ago?
No. The online system only works for licenses that expired within the last five years. If your license has been expired longer than that, you must renew in person at a Department of Licensing office or authorized service provider. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of Washington residency.
What if I need to add a motorcycle endorsement to my license?
You cannot add endorsements online. You must visit a Department of Licensing office in person and pass the motorcycle knowledge test and skills test. Bring your current license, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The endorsement fee is added to your renewal cost.