Texas driver's license renewal at a glance
In Texas, you renew your driver's license through the Department of Public Safety (DPS), not a separate DMV office. You can renew in person at a DPS driver license office, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Texas DPS website. Most people are may be able to access to renew 240 days before their license expires, which gives you a wide window to complete the process without rushing.
The method you choose depends on your license type, how long it has been since your last renewal, and whether you need to update your address or other information. A standard renewal takes about 20 to 30 minutes in person, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
Key Takeaways
- Texas allows online renewal for most drivers whose licenses are not expired and who have not had certain violations or address changes since their last renewal.
- Mail renewal is available if your license is still valid and you meet specific requirements, though processing takes two to three weeks.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license is expired, if you need to update your photo, or if you have had a name change or address change in some cases.
- You can begin the renewal process up to 240 days before your license expires, giving you plenty of time to plan.
- Texas driver's licenses are valid for eight years for most adults, though some people receive shorter validity periods based on their age or immigration status.
Online renewal through the Texas DPS website
Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You go to the Texas DPS website, create or log into your account, and complete the renewal process without leaving home. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
You can renew online if your current license is not expired, you have not had a name change since your last renewal, your address on file is current, and you have not had certain traffic violations or suspensions. You also cannot renew online if your license was issued based on a visa or temporary immigration status — those require in-person renewal.
When you complete an online renewal, you will use the photo from your previous license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person instead.
Mail renewal for valid licenses
Mail renewal is an option if your license is still valid and you meet the same basic requirements as online renewal: no name change, current address on file, and no recent violations or suspensions. You request a renewal process from the DPS, fill it out, and mail it back with the required documents and fee.
Processing by mail takes two to three weeks after the DPS receives your process, plus the time for mail to travel both ways. This method works well if you are not in a hurry and prefer not to visit an office or use the internet. Like online renewal, mail renewal uses your existing photo.
To start a mail renewal, visit the Texas DPS website or call your local DPS office to request an process form. Some offices also allow you to pick up a form in person.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
You must renew in person if your license is expired, if you want a new photo, if you have had a name change, or if you have had certain address changes since your last renewal. In-person renewal also applies if you are renewing a license issued under a visa or temporary immigration status.
Bring your current license (or expired license if it has been less than two years since expiration), proof of Texas residency such as a utility bill or lease, and your Social Security number. If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present.
Wait times at DPS offices vary widely. Early morning visits, weekday mornings, and visits outside school hours tend to be faster. Some offices offer online appointment scheduling through the Texas DPS website, which can reduce your wait time significantly.
Documents and fees you will need
For any renewal method, you will need to pay the renewal fee. A standard eight-year driver's license costs $33 as of the most recent update, though fees can change. If you are renewing a license with a shorter validity period — for example, if you are over 85 or have temporary immigration status — the fee may be different.
For in-person renewal, bring your current or recently expired license and proof of Texas residency. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government document showing your current address works. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a document showing your immigration status or a letter from your employer.
If you are renewing online or by mail and your address has changed, you must update it before you renew. Address changes require in-person renewal in some cases, so check the Texas DPS website or call your local office if you are unsure whether your situation qualifies for mail or online renewal.
When your license is expired or will expire soon
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead, which requires an in-person visit, a written test, and a driving test. If your license expired within the last two years, you can still renew it using any of the three methods (online, mail, or in person), though you cannot legally drive until your new license arrives.
You can start the renewal process up to 240 days before your license expires. This long window means you do not have to wait until the last minute. If you are close to expiration and want to avoid a lapsed license, in-person renewal is fastest because you receive a temporary paper license on the spot that you can use while your permanent license is being mailed.
Check your license to see your expiration date. Texas prints the date in the bottom right corner. If you are unsure when you are may be able to access to renew, the Texas DPS website has a tool where you can enter your license number and birth date to check your renewal status.
What happens after you renew
If you renew online or by mail, your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days for online renewal or two to three weeks for mail renewal. You can continue to drive using your current license until the new one arrives, as long as your current license is not expired.
If you renew in person, you receive a temporary paper license when ready that is valid for 45 days. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license allows you to drive legally while you wait for the permanent one.
Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one or return it to a DPS office if you prefer. Your new license is valid for eight years from the date of issue (or a shorter period if you are over 85 or have temporary immigration status).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license if I have moved out of state?
No. To renew a Texas license, you must be a Texas resident. If you have moved to another state, you need to get a driver's license from your new state. You can renew a Texas license by mail if you are temporarily out of state but still a Texas resident — for example, if you are stationed overseas with the military or working abroad temporarily.
What if my name has changed since my last renewal?
You must renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document showing the name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You cannot renew online or by mail with a name change.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew in person?
You receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days when you leave the DPS office. Your permanent license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can drive legally using the temporary license during this time.
Can I renew my license if it has been suspended or revoked?
No. You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. You must contact the Texas DPS to find out why your license was suspended or revoked and what steps you need to take to restore it before you can renew.
What if I want a new photo on my license?
You must renew in person at a DPS office to get a new photo. Online and mail renewals use your existing photo from your previous license.