Yes, you can renew your Texas driver's license, and most renewals happen by mail or online without a visit to the DPS office
Texas allows you to renew your driver's license in three ways: online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. Which method you can use depends on your license type, how long it has been expired, and whether you need to update your address or photograph. Most people renew online or by mail and never step into an office.
Your Texas driver's license is valid for eight years if you are between 18 and 84 years old. The state sends you a renewal notice about 60 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for it to arrive. You can renew up to one year before your license expires, which means you can start the process as soon as you want.
Key Takeaways
- Texas driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew starting one year before expiration.
- Online renewal is the fastest and cheapest option if your license is not expired and you do not need a new photograph.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires a check or money order; you cannot pay by credit card through the mail.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license has been expired for more than two years or if you need a new photograph.
- The renewal fee is $33 for an eight-year license, but you pay $16 if you renew online without a new photograph.
Online renewal: fastest and cheapest
Online renewal through the Texas DPS website is the quickest path if your license is not yet expired and you do not need a new photograph. You will receive a new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The fee is $16 when you renew online without requesting a new photo.
To renew online, you need your driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (credit card, debit card, or electronic check). You must also have a Texas address on file. The entire process takes about 10 minutes. You cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need to change your address, or if you want a new photograph.
After you complete the online transaction, you will receive a confirmation number. Keep this number until your new license arrives. Your old license remains valid until the new one reaches you, so you can continue to use it for identification and driving.
Mail renewal: no office visit needed
Mail renewal is an option if your license is not expired and you do not need a new photograph. You will need to request a renewal process from the Texas DPS by phone at 1-888-589-6789 or read the form from the DPS website. The form is called the "process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card" (Form DL-43).
Fill out the form, include a check or money order for $33 (the full eight-year renewal fee), and mail it to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DPS receives your envelope. Mail your renewal at least three weeks before your license expires to avoid driving with an expired license.
You will receive your new license by mail at the address on your process. If you need to change your address, you must renew in person or use online renewal and update your address before you submit the payment.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
You must renew in person at a DPS office if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need a new photograph, or if you want to change your address or other information on your license. You will also need to renew in person if you are changing your name or if you have a commercial driver's license (CDL).
Bring your current license, proof of Texas residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form). If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. The fee is $33 for an eight-year license.
Visit the Texas DPS website to find the office nearest you and check current wait times. Many offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can cut your wait time significantly. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment holders are served first. Processing at the office takes about 15 to 20 minutes once you are called.
What documents you need for each renewal method
| Renewal Method | Documents Needed | Processing Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Driver's license number, Social Security number, payment method | 7–10 business days | $16 |
| Completed Form DL-43, check or money order | 2–3 weeks | $33 | |
| In Person | Current license, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number | 15–20 minutes | $33 |
Common mistakes that delay your renewal
The most common mistake is trying to renew online when your license has already expired. Texas only allows online renewal if your license is still valid. If you have been driving on an expired license, you must renew by mail or in person.
Another frequent error is sending cash through the mail. The DPS will not process your renewal if you include cash instead of a check or money order. If you mail your renewal, use a check or money order only.
A third mistake is not allowing enough time for mail processing. If you mail your renewal fewer than three weeks before expiration, your license may expire before the DPS receives and processes your process. Your old license is still valid for driving until the new one arrives, but you should not cut it close.
Finally, some people try to renew online without realizing they need a new photograph. If you have not had a new photo in more than eight years, or if you want to update your photograph, you cannot use online renewal. You must go to a DPS office in person.
What happens if your license expires before your renewal arrives
If you have submitted a renewal process (by mail or in person) and your license expires before the new one arrives, you are still legal to drive. Your old license remains valid for driving purposes until your new license is delivered. However, you should not use an expired license for other forms of identification, such as boarding a plane or entering a federal building.
If you have not yet submitted a renewal and your license has expired, you cannot legally drive. You must renew in person at a DPS office. Driving on an expired license can result in a traffic citation and a fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas driver's license if I have moved out of state?
No. You must have a Texas address to renew a Texas driver's license. If you have moved out of state, you need to obtain a driver's license from your new state. You can surrender your Texas license to the DPS by mail or in person.
Do I have to take a new photo when I renew?
Not necessarily. If you renew online or by mail, you keep your current photograph. If you want a new photo or if your license has been expired for more than two years, you must renew in person at a DPS office, where a new photo will be taken.
What if I lost my driver's license and need to renew it?
If your license is lost, you cannot renew it by mail or online. You must go to a DPS office in person and request a replacement. Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The replacement fee is $33.
How long does it take to get my license if I renew in person?
You will receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days after your in-person visit. Your old license remains valid for driving until the new one arrives. If you need a license when ready for travel, ask the DPS office about a temporary paper license.
Can I renew my commercial driver's license by mail or online?
No. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) must be renewed in person at a DPS office. You will need to pass a vision test and provide updated medical certification if required by federal law.