Texas driver's licenses expire every 8 years, or every 5 years if you're under 18
In Texas, the renewal timeline depends on your age when you get your license. If you're 18 or older, your license is valid for 8 years from the date it's issued. If you're under 18, your license expires 5 years after issue and must be renewed in person once you turn 18.
Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license in the bottom right corner. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) mails renewal notices about 60 days before expiration, but you don't have to wait for the notice to renew — you can renew anytime within 2 years before your license expires.
If your license has already expired, you can still renew it, but the process may take longer and you cannot legally drive until it's renewed. Driving on an expired license can result in a traffic citation.
Key Takeaways
- Adult licenses (18+) are valid for 8 years; licenses issued to minors are valid for 5 years and must be renewed in person after you turn 18.
- Your expiration date appears on the front of your license, and DPS sends renewal notices about 60 days before that date.
- You can renew your license up to 2 years early, either online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office.
- Expired licenses can be renewed, but you cannot legally drive until the renewal is complete.
- If your license was suspended or revoked, you must resolve that status before renewing.
Renewing online, by mail, or in person
Texas offers three renewal methods, and which one you can use depends on your situation. Online renewal through the DPS website is the fastest option if you're may be able to access — it takes about 10 minutes and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can renew online if your license is not expired, you have no medical conditions that require DPS review, and you haven't changed your address or name.
Mail renewal is available if you meet the same conditions as online renewal. You'll receive a renewal process in the mail from DPS about 60 days before expiration. Complete it, include a check or money order for the renewal fee (currently $33 for an 8-year license), and mail it back. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks after DPS receives it.
In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license has expired, if you've changed your name or address, if you have a medical condition that needs review, or if you're renewing a minor's license for the first time after they turn 18. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. Wait times at DPS offices vary by location and time of day; many offices now offer online appointment scheduling to reduce wait time.
What happens if you let your license expire
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Texas, even if the expiration happened just days ago. A police officer can cite you for expired driving privileges, which is a traffic violation that can result in a fine of up to $200 and points on your driving record.
If you're caught driving on an expired license, you may also face higher insurance rates. Some insurers treat an expired license as a lapse in coverage or a sign of higher risk. If you're involved in an accident while driving on an expired license, your insurance company may deny your claim or cancel your policy.
The best approach is to renew before expiration. If you've already let it expire, renew as soon as possible — the renewal process itself is the same whether your license is current or expired, but you cannot legally drive until the new license arrives.
Renewing after suspension or revocation
If your Texas license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward renew it. You must first resolve the reason for the suspension or revocation with DPS or the court that ordered it.
Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, unpaid child support, or conviction of certain traffic offenses. Revocation is more serious and typically results from DUI conviction, habitual traffic violations, or other serious offenses. Once you've paid fines, completed required programs, or satisfied court orders, you can contact DPS to confirm your driving privileges have been restored. Only then can you renew your license.
If you're unsure whether your license is suspended or revoked, check your status on the DPS website or call the DPS Customer Service line at 1-888-589-6556.
Real ID compliance and renewal
Texas offers both standard driver's licenses and Real ID-compliant licenses. A Real ID license has a gold star in the top right corner and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. A standard license does not.
When you renew, you can choose which type you want. If you want to upgrade to Real ID during renewal, you'll need to bring additional documents: a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and two forms of proof of residency. The Real ID fee is the same as a standard license renewal ($33 for 8 years).
If you don't upgrade to Real ID at renewal, you can still get one later by visiting a DPS office in person. Real ID is not required for driving, only for federal identification purposes like air travel.
Keeping your address and name current
If you move or change your name, you should update your license even if it's not expiring soon. You can change your address online through the DPS website at no cost, and the change takes effect when ready. A new license with your updated address will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Name changes require an in-person visit to a DPS office and proof of the legal name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). There is no fee for a name change. Once you've updated your name, your license is valid for the remainder of its 8-year term.
Keeping your address current is important because DPS uses it to mail renewal notices and your new license. If your address is wrong, you may miss the renewal notice and accidentally let your license expire.
License renewal fees and payment
The cost to renew a Texas driver's license depends on how long you want it to be valid. An 8-year renewal costs $33. A 5-year renewal costs $21. You can choose the length when you renew, even if your previous license was 8 years.
Payment methods vary by renewal type. Online renewal accepts credit or debit card. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal at a DPS office accepts cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Some DPS offices also accept electronic payment through their kiosks.
If you're renewing by mail and your payment is lost or rejected, DPS will contact you. If you're renewing online or in person, you'll know when ready if payment failed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license before the expiration date?
Yes. You can renew anytime within 2 years before your license expires. This is useful if you're planning a trip and want a fresh license, or if you want to change your address or upgrade to Real ID. The new license will have a new 8-year expiration date from the date of renewal.
What if I lost my license and need to renew it?
If your license is lost or stolen, you need to replace it before you can renew. Visit a DPS office in person with proof of identity and residency. The replacement fee is $11. Once you have your replacement license, you can renew it using the normal process when it expires.
Do I need an appointment to renew in person at a DPS office?
Appointments are not required, but many DPS offices now offer online scheduling to reduce wait times. Check the DPS website for your local office to see if appointments are available. Walk-ins are still accepted, but you may wait longer during peak hours.
What if I'm out of state when my license expires?
You can renew by mail or online before you leave, or while you're out of state. Online renewal works from anywhere. Mail renewal also works from anywhere — just mail your process and payment to the DPS address on the form. You cannot renew in person at a DPS office outside Texas.
Does my commercial driver's license (CDL) renew on the same schedule?
No. Commercial driver's licenses in Texas expire every 4 years, not 8. CDL renewal also requires an in-person visit to a DPS office and a medical examination. Check your CDL expiration date on your license and plan to renew before it expires.