Documents and fees required for Louisiana license renewal

To renew your Louisiana driver's license, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Louisiana accepts a passport, birth certificate, or military ID as proof of identity. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your current address. You'll also need to pay the renewal fee, which is $28 for a four-year license or $48 for an eight-year license as of 2024.

If your name has changed since your last license was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change. Louisiana requires this document before they'll issue a license under your new name, even if you're just renewing.

You do not need to bring your old license to the Office of Motor Vehicles, though it helps if you have it. If your license was lost or stolen, tell the OMV staff when you arrive, and they'll note it in the system.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a passport, birth certificate, or military ID for proof of identity, plus a utility bill or lease for proof of residency.
  • The renewal fee is $28 for four years or $48 for eight years, and you can pay by cash, check, or card at the OMV office.
  • If your name changed, you must bring the legal document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) that shows the change.
  • You'll need to pass a vision test and answer questions about medical conditions or medications that affect driving, even on renewal.
  • Louisiana allows you to renew by mail if your license is not suspended and you meet age and vision requirements, which can save a trip to the OMV office.

Vision test and medical questions at renewal

Even though you're renewing rather than getting a new license, Louisiana requires you to pass a vision screening at the OMV office. The test checks whether you can read a standard eye chart at 20 feet. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you—you can take the test while wearing them.

The OMV staff will also ask whether you have any medical conditions or take any medications that could affect your ability to drive safely. Be honest about these questions. Conditions like seizure disorders, severe sleep apnea, or medications that cause drowsiness can lead to restrictions on your license or a requirement to see a doctor before renewal is approved. If you answer yes to any medical question, the OMV may ask you to have your doctor fill out a form confirming you're safe to drive.

Renewing by mail instead of in person

Louisiana lets you renew by mail if you meet three conditions: your license is not suspended or revoked, you are between 21 and 70 years old, and you passed the vision test at your last renewal without restrictions. If all three explore, you can request a mail renewal form from the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website or by calling 225-925-6146.

Fill out the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes about two to three weeks. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address you provided. Mail renewal is not available if your license has ever been suspended, even if the suspension is now over.

What happens if your license is expired or suspended

If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot renew it—you must explore for a new license instead, which requires the full process process and a written test. If your license expired less than one year ago, you can still renew it at the OMV office by bringing the same documents listed above.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension is lifted. You'll need to contact the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles or the court that issued the suspension to find out what you must do to restore your driving privileges. Once the suspension is removed, you can then renew your license.

Real ID compliance for Louisiana licenses

Real ID is a federal security standard that makes a driver's license acceptable for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. Louisiana began issuing Real ID licenses in 2009, and most people renewing now will get a Real ID license automatically if they bring the required documents.

To get a Real ID license, you need the same documents as a standard renewal—proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. You do not need to do anything special or pay extra. The license will have a small star in the upper right corner to show it meets Real ID standards. If you do not want a Real ID license, you can request a standard license instead, though you'll need a passport or other federal ID for air travel after May 2025.

Where to renew and how long it takes

You can renew your license at any Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles location. The OMV has offices in most parishes, and you can find the one nearest you on the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Mornings on weekdays are usually less crowded than afternoons or Saturdays.

In-person renewal typically takes 15 to 45 minutes from the time you arrive, depending on how busy the office is. Your new license is printed on the spot, and you can drive home with it the same day. If you renew by mail, allow two to three weeks for processing and delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

No. Louisiana does not offer online renewal. You must renew in person at an OMV office or by mail if you meet the mail renewal requirements. The mail option is the closest alternative if you want to avoid a trip to the office.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You must provide your Social Security number to renew your license. If you don't have one, you'll need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can renew. Bring your SSN or a Social Security card to the OMV office.

Do I need to take a written test to renew?

No. Renewal does not require a written test. You only need to pass the vision screening and answer medical questions. A written test is only required if your license has been expired for more than one year, in which case you're explore for a new license rather than renewing.

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?

Yes. An unpaid traffic ticket does not prevent you from renewing your license. However, if you have an unpaid fine, the court may eventually suspend your license if you don't pay it. Renew your license now and address the ticket separately to avoid a suspension later.

What if my address changed since my last license?

Bring proof of your new address—a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address. The OMV will update your address during renewal, and your new license will show the new address. You do not need to change your address separately.