Texas renewal fees depend on your license type and how long you want it valid

A standard five-year Texas driver's license renewal costs $25. If you want an eight-year license instead, you'll pay $40. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) cost more: $75 for five years or $120 for eight years. These are the fees you pay to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) when you renew in person or by mail.

The fee covers the cost of processing your renewal process, producing your new license card, and maintaining the state's driver licensing system. You cannot renew online in Texas, so you'll either visit a DPS office in person or mail in your renewal process — both routes charge the same fee.

If you're renewing a Real ID-compliant license (the kind with a gold star that works for federal building access and domestic flights), the cost is the same as a standard license. Real ID does not add an extra charge in Texas.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard five-year Texas driver's license renewal costs $25; an eight-year renewal costs $40.
  • Commercial driver's licenses cost $75 for five years or $120 for eight years.
  • Real ID-compliant licenses cost the same as standard licenses — there is no additional fee for the gold star.
  • You pay the same fee whether you renew in person at a DPS office or by mail.
  • Payment methods at DPS offices include cash, check, debit card, and credit card; mail-in renewals typically require a check or money order.

How to pay when you renew in person

When you visit a Texas DPS office to renew, you'll pay your fee at the time of your appointment. DPS offices accept cash, personal checks, debit cards, and credit cards. Bring your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). If your address has changed, bring documents showing your new address.

Some DPS offices are busier than others, so arriving early or scheduling an appointment online through the DPS website can save you time. You'll receive your new license card in the mail within 7 to 10 business days after your visit.

How to pay when you renew by mail

Texas allows mail-in renewal if your license is not expired and you meet certain conditions — mainly that you have no medical restrictions and your address hasn't changed. You'll receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires.

To renew by mail, include a check or money order for the correct fee with your process materials. Do not send cash through the mail. Make your check payable to "Texas Department of Public Safety." Mail your completed process to the address shown on your renewal notice. Processing takes about two to three weeks from the date DPS receives your process.

Additional costs you might encounter

The renewal fee itself is straightforward, but other costs can add up depending on your situation. If you need a duplicate license (because yours was lost or stolen), you'll pay an additional $11 on top of the renewal fee. If you're changing your name or correcting information on your license, you may need to provide certified documents, which cost money to obtain from the county clerk or vital records office.

If you're renewing a CDL, you may also need to pay for a medical examination ($50 to $150, depending on the provider) if your medical certificate has expired. This is separate from the DPS renewal fee and is required before you can renew a commercial license.

What happens if you renew late

If your license has already expired, you cannot renew by mail — you must visit a DPS office in person. The renewal fee remains the same, but you'll also need to pass the written test and vision test again, just as if you were explore for a new license. This can take longer than a standard renewal appointment.

Driving on an expired license is illegal in Texas, even if you've submitted a renewal process. If you're stopped by police, you can show proof that you've applied for renewal, but you may still receive a citation.

Refunds and fee disputes

If you pay your renewal fee and then decide not to proceed with the renewal, you can request a refund from DPS. Contact the DPS office where you applied or the address listed on your renewal notice. Refund requests must usually be made within a certain timeframe — check with DPS directly for their current policy.

If you believe you were charged incorrectly, contact the DPS office where you renewed or call the DPS Customer Service line. Keep your receipt as proof of payment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay my renewal fee online?

No. Texas does not offer online renewal or online payment for driver's licenses. You must renew in person at a DPS office or by mail. In-person renewals are processed when ready, while mail-in renewals take two to three weeks.

Do I have to pay the full fee if I'm renewing early?

Yes. Whether you renew early or right before your license expires, the fee is the same. Texas does not offer prorated fees or discounts for early renewal.

What if I lose my payment receipt?

Keep your receipt until you receive your new license card in the mail. If you need proof of payment later, contact the DPS office where you renewed. They can look up your transaction using your driver's license number.

Are there any discounts on renewal fees?

Texas does not offer discounts on standard renewal fees. However, some DPS offices may waive fees for people experiencing financial hardship — contact your local DPS office to ask about their policies.

Do military members pay a different renewal fee?

No. Active-duty military members and veterans pay the same renewal fee as all other Texas drivers. However, military members stationed outside Texas may be able to renew by mail even if they normally wouldn't be may be able to access — contact DPS to ask about your specific situation.