What to bring when you renew in Missouri

To renew your Missouri driver's license, you need to bring proof of your identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. You'll also need your current license itself. The Missouri Department of Revenue accepts specific documents for each category — not just anything that looks official.

You don't need to take a written test or road test to renew, as long as your license hasn't been suspended or revoked. If you're renewing by mail or online, the document requirements are the same, but you won't hand them to a clerk in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring your current Missouri driver's license, a photo ID, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address to renew in person.
  • Acceptable documents for identity include a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate; for address, a utility bill or lease dated within 90 days works.
  • Missouri allows online renewal if your license is not expiring for more than 180 days and you have no medical conditions or violations on your record.
  • Mail-in renewal is available for certain drivers, but you must submit original documents or certified copies, not photocopies.
  • Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days if you renew online or by mail.

Documents for identity and Social Security proof

For identity, the Missouri Department of Revenue accepts a U.S. passport, a military ID, a certified copy of your birth certificate, or a passport card. Your current driver's license counts as identity proof if it's still valid, but you'll need a second form of ID if your license has already expired.

For Social Security number proof, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number on it. A tax return also works. If you don't have any of these, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming your number.

Do not bring a photocopy of your Social Security card. The Missouri Department of Revenue requires the original card or one of the other documents listed above.

Proof of address documents

Your proof of address must be dated within the last 90 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, or a property tax bill all work. A bank or credit card statement with your name and address also counts.

If you've recently moved and don't have a document dated within 90 days at your new address, bring a signed letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead, along with a copy of your lease. Some people use a government-issued document like a voter registration card, but it must show your current address.

Post office change-of-address forms do not count as proof of address for license renewal.

Renewing online through the Missouri Department of Revenue

Missouri lets you renew online if your license is not expiring for at least 180 days, you have no medical conditions listed on your record, and you have no suspensions or revocations. You'll need your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to start.

Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal — currently $5 less — and takes about 10 minutes. You won't need to upload documents; the system checks your information against existing state records. Your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

If you don't meet the online requirements, you'll need to renew in person at a Missouri license office or by mail.

Renewing by mail

Mail-in renewal is available to certain drivers, including those over 70 and those with medical conditions that prevent them from visiting an office. You'll need to send your current license, a completed renewal form (DL 44), and copies of your identity, Social Security, and address documents.

The Missouri Department of Revenue requires certified copies of documents like birth certificates, not regular photocopies. For documents you can't certify — like utility bills — send the originals and the department will return them to you. Include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if you want your documents back.

Mail your renewal packet to the address listed on the renewal form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks after the department receives it, plus mailing time both ways.

Renewing in person at a license office

You can renew in person at any Missouri license office. Bring your current license, your identity document, your Social Security proof, and your address proof. You'll fill out a form, have your photo taken, and pay the renewal fee.

In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Your new license is printed on the spot, so you can leave with it the same day. Bring the originals of all documents — the office will not accept photocopies.

You do not need an appointment at most Missouri license offices, but some locations now offer online scheduling. Check the Missouri Department of Revenue website to see if your local office uses appointments.

Renewal fees and license validity

The cost of renewal depends on how you renew. Online renewal is the least expensive option. In-person and mail-in renewal cost more, with in-person being slightly higher. All Missouri driver's licenses are valid for six years from the date of issue.

You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. If your license has already expired, you cannot renew it — you'll need to explore for a new license instead, which requires a written test and road test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Missouri license if it's already expired?

No. Once your license expires, you must explore for a new one, not renew. A new process requires a written test and road test. You should renew before your expiration date or up to one year before it expires.

What if I've changed my name since my last license?

Bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing your name change along with your other renewal documents. You'll need to renew in person or by mail; online renewal doesn't allow name changes.

Do I need to take a vision test to renew?

Yes, you'll take a vision screening at the license office if you renew in person. If you renew online or by mail, you won't take a test, but you're confirming that your vision meets Missouri standards.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

If you renew in person, you get your license the same day. Online renewal takes 7 to 10 business days by mail. Mail-in renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks after the department receives your packet, plus mailing time.

Can I renew online if I wear corrective lenses?

Yes. Wearing glasses or contacts doesn't prevent online renewal. You only need to renew in person if you have a medical condition listed on your license or if your license is expiring within 180 days.