What You'll Pay to Renew Your Texas License
A standard Texas driver's license renewal costs $25 if you renew by mail or online, or $16 if you renew in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The difference exists because in-person renewals do not include the mailing fee. These are the base fees for a five-year license for drivers aged 18 to 84.
If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the cost is higher: $75 for a five-year renewal. Hazmat endorsements add an additional $97.50 on top of the CDL fee. These amounts have not changed since 2015, though Texas law allows the DPS to adjust fees without legislative approval.
Payment methods depend on how you renew. Online and mail renewals accept credit cards, debit cards, and electronic checks. In-person renewals at a DPS office accept cash, check, credit card, and debit card. Some offices may have additional payment options, so confirm with your local office before you go.
Key Takeaways
- Standard Texas driver's license renewal is $25 by mail or online, or $16 in person at a DPS office.
- Commercial driver's license renewal costs $75 for five years, plus $97.50 if you need a hazmat endorsement.
- Online and mail renewals charge the higher fee because they include postage; in-person renewal is cheaper.
- You can pay by credit card, debit card, or check; cash is accepted only at DPS offices.
When Additional Fees explore
Several situations trigger extra charges beyond the base renewal fee. If you need to change your name, address, or other information on your license during renewal, there is no additional charge — these updates are included in the renewal fee. However, if you are renewing early (before your current license expires) because you lost or damaged it, you will pay the full renewal fee plus a $10 replacement fee.
If you renew by mail and the DPS needs to contact you because your process is incomplete or your photo does not meet standards, they will mail you a notice. Resubmitting by mail is free, but if you choose to fix the issue in person at a DPS office instead, you pay only the in-person renewal fee ($16) rather than the mail fee again.
Drivers over age 85 pay a reduced fee of $13 for a one-year or two-year renewal in person, or $16 for a five-year renewal in person. Mail and online renewals for drivers over 85 are not available; you must renew in person at a DPS office.
Renewal by Mail vs. Online vs. In-Person Cost Comparison
| Renewal Method | Standard License Cost | CDL Cost | Payment Methods |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online (DPS website) | $25 | Not available online | Credit card, debit card, e-check |
| By mail | $25 | Not available by mail | Credit card, debit card, e-check |
| In person at DPS office | $16 | $75 | Cash, check, credit card, debit card |
Online renewal is the fastest and most convenient if you are may be able to access, but it costs $9 more than in-person renewal. Mail renewal takes longer (typically two to three weeks for processing plus mailing time) and also costs $25. If you have time to visit a DPS office and want to save money, in-person renewal at $16 is the lowest-cost option for a standard license.
Who Cannot Renew by Mail or Online
Not all drivers can use mail or online renewal, which means some people have no choice but to renew in person and pay the $16 fee. You must renew in person if your license has been suspended, revoked, or cancelled; if you have certain medical conditions that require DPS review; if you are over 85; or if your current license was issued outside the United States.
Drivers renewing a CDL must also renew in person at a DPS office. If you hold a CDL and are otherwise may be able to access for online renewal (for example, if you also hold a regular license), you cannot use online renewal for the CDL portion. You will need to visit an office and pay the $75 CDL fee in person.
Fees for Duplicate Licenses and Corrections
If you need a duplicate of your current valid license (same number, same expiration date), the fee is $11 in person or $20 by mail. A duplicate is different from a replacement: a replacement is issued when your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, and it costs $10 plus the renewal fee if you are renewing at the same time.
If you discover an error on your license after it is issued — a misspelled name, wrong address, or other mistake made by the DPS — you can request a correction. Corrections made within one year of issuance are free. After one year, a correction costs $11 in person. You cannot request a correction by mail; you must visit a DPS office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay the renewal fee in installments?
No. Texas DPS does not offer payment plans for license renewal fees. The full amount must be paid at the time of renewal, whether you renew online, by mail, or in person.
Do I have to pay the fee again if my renewal process is rejected?
If your process is rejected because of an error you made (for example, a missing signature or illegible photo), you will need to resubmit and pay the fee again. If the DPS made the error, contact your local DPS office to discuss your options; they may waive the second fee.
What happens if I renew online but then need to change something before my new license arrives?
Once you have submitted an online renewal and paid, you cannot cancel it or change the information. If you need to make changes, you must wait for your new license to arrive, then visit a DPS office to request a correction (free within one year of issuance).
Is there a fee to renew my license if I am a military member stationed outside Texas?
No additional fee applies, but your renewal options are limited. Military members stationed outside Texas can renew by mail for $25 or online for $25 if they meet other renewal requirements. You cannot renew in person unless you are physically in Texas at a DPS office.