Texas lets you renew your driver's license online if you meet a few basic conditions
You can renew your Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website without visiting an office, but only if your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago. The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes, costs $16 for a four-year renewal or $32 for an eight-year renewal, and you'll receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Not everyone can use the online system. You cannot renew online if your license has been suspended, if you need to update your address or name, if you're renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), or if you're over 79 years old. If any of these explore to you, you'll need to visit a DPS office in person.
Key Takeaways
- You can renew online only if your current license is valid or expired within the last two years.
- The online renewal costs $16 for four years or $32 for eight years and takes about 10 minutes to complete.
- You will need your Texas driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card).
- Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can continue driving on your current license until it arrives.
- If your license is suspended, you need a name or address change, or you hold a CDL, you must renew in person at a DPS office.
What you need before you start the online renewal
Gather these items before you go to the DPS website: your current Texas driver's license (you'll need the license number), your Social Security number, and a debit or credit card for payment. You should also have your current mailing address handy, though you can only update it in person at a DPS office.
If your address has changed since your license was issued, the online system will not let you complete the renewal. In that case, you'll need to visit a DPS office to update your address at the same time you renew. The same applies if you've changed your name — name changes must be done in person with supporting documents like a marriage certificate or court order.
Step-by-step: completing your online renewal
Go to the Texas DPS website and select "Renew Driver License Online." You'll be asked to enter your driver's license number and date of birth to confirm your identity. The system will pull up your current license information and show you what will appear on your new license.
Review the information on screen carefully. If anything is wrong — your name, date of birth, or any other detail — stop and do not proceed. You'll need to visit a DPS office in person to make corrections. If everything looks correct, proceed to the payment screen and enter your debit or credit card information. The system accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.
After payment is processed, you'll receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Write down or save this number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, and you can track its status through the DPS website using your confirmation number.
When your new license arrives and what to do while you wait
Your new license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though it may take longer during peak renewal periods. You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait — there is no gap in your driving privileges. If you need to show proof of renewal before the physical card arrives, you can print your confirmation email or show it on your phone.
If your new license does not arrive within 14 business days, contact the DPS by phone at 1-888-589-6789 or through the DPS website. Have your confirmation number ready. The DPS can reissue your license or investigate if it was lost in the mail.
Situations where you cannot renew online
Your license has been suspended or revoked. The online system cannot process renewals for suspended licenses. You must visit a DPS office and resolve the suspension before you can renew. Suspensions can result from unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or other violations.
You are over 79 years old. Texas requires drivers 80 and older to renew in person at a DPS office every two years. This allows the DPS to assess your fitness to drive and update your medical information.
You hold a commercial driver's license (CDL). CDL renewals must be done in person at a DPS office. You'll need to pass a written test and a road test if your CDL is expired or if you're adding or removing endorsements.
You need to change your name or address. The online system cannot update these details. You must visit a DPS office with proof of your new name (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) or new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days).
Finding a DPS office if you need to renew in person
Use the DPS office locator on the Texas DPS website to find the nearest location. Enter your city or ZIP code and the system will show you all nearby offices, their hours, and whether they accept walk-ins or require an appointment. Many offices now use an online appointment system — you can book a time slot in advance rather than waiting in line.
Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number. If you're changing your name, bring the supporting document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). In-person renewals typically take 15 to 30 minutes, and your new license is issued on the spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew online if my license expired more than two years ago?
No. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must renew in person at a DPS office. The online system only works for licenses that are currently valid or expired within the last two years. You'll need to bring your expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
What if I entered the wrong information during online renewal?
If you made a mistake before you submitted payment, you can go back and correct it. If you already paid and submitted the renewal, you cannot change it online. Contact the DPS at 1-888-589-6789 with your confirmation number. They can cancel the renewal and refund your fee, and you can start over.
Do I need to take a new photo for online renewal?
No. Online renewal uses your existing photo from your current license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a DPS office. You can request a new photo at any time by visiting an office, even if your license is not yet expired.
Can I renew online if I have a medical condition or disability?
Yes, as long as your license is valid or expired within two years and you don't need to update any medical information. If your medical condition has changed or you need to add or remove medical restrictions, you must renew in person so the DPS can review your medical documentation.
What happens if my new license gets lost in the mail?
Contact the DPS within 14 business days of your renewal date using your confirmation number. The DPS can reissue your license and mail a replacement. If you need to drive before the replacement arrives, you can visit a DPS office and request a temporary license.