You can renew an expired Texas license by mail, online, or in person at a DPS office

Texas allows you to renew an expired driver's license through three routes: online at the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail using the renewal process packet, or in person at any DPS driver license office. The method you choose depends on how long your license has been expired and whether you need to update your address, photo, or other information. Most renewals take two to four weeks by mail and one to two weeks online, though in-person visits are typically completed the same day.

Your expired license can be renewed up to two years after the expiration date. If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot use the standard renewal process and must explore for a new license instead, which requires taking the written and driving tests again.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas driver's licenses expire on your birthday, and you can renew up to two years after that date using mail, online, or in-person methods.
  • Online renewal costs $16 for a two-year license or $32 for a five-year license and takes about one to two weeks; you must have a valid credit or debit card.
  • Mail renewal requires the renewal packet from DPS, a check or money order, and takes two to four weeks; the packet arrives at your address on file.
  • In-person renewal at a DPS office requires a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and payment by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
  • If your license expired more than two years ago, you must reapply as a new driver and pass the written and driving tests.

Online renewal: fastest option if your information hasn't changed

The Texas DPS online renewal system is the quickest method if your address, name, and other personal information remain the same. You access it through the official Texas DPS website under "Driver License Services." You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, date of birth, and a valid credit or debit card to complete the transaction.

Online renewal costs $16 for a two-year license or $32 for a five-year license. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within one to two weeks. You cannot use online renewal if you need to change your address, update your photo, or correct your name — those changes require an in-person visit or mail renewal with additional documentation.

Mail renewal: submit the packet with payment and documents

To renew by mail, you must first request the renewal packet from DPS. You can order it online at the Texas DPS website, by phone at 1-844-DPS-TEXAS (1-844-377-8329), or by visiting a DPS office in person. The packet arrives at your address on file within five to seven business days.

Once you receive the packet, complete the process form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee ($16 for two years or $32 for five years), and mail it back to the address shown in the packet. Do not send cash. Include a copy of your proof of residency if you have changed your address since your last renewal. Mail processing takes two to four weeks from the date DPS receives your packet. Your new license will be mailed to the address you list on the process.

In-person renewal at a DPS office: bring ID and proof of residency

Visiting a DPS driver license office is the fastest way to complete a renewal if you need to update your photo, address, or other information. Bring your expired license, one form of valid identification (such as a passport, military ID, or state ID), and one document proving your current address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days). If your name has changed, bring the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Payment is accepted in cash, check, debit card, or credit card. The renewal fee is $16 for a two-year license or $32 for a five-year license. Most DPS offices do not require an appointment, but you can check wait times and schedule one online through the Texas DPS website. Processing is usually completed the same day, and you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your permanent license is mailed to you.

What happens if your license expired more than two years ago

If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew it. Instead, you must reapply as a new driver. This means you will need to pass the written knowledge test and the driving test again. You will also need to provide proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number, and pay the full process fee.

Schedule your appointment at a DPS office online or by phone. Bring all required documents, arrive early, and plan to spend one to two hours at the office. After you pass both tests, you will receive a temporary paper license and your permanent license will be mailed within two to three weeks.

Address changes and other updates during renewal

If you are renewing in person or by mail, you can update your address at the same time. For in-person renewal, bring your proof of residency document and the DPS office will update your address during the transaction. For mail renewal, write your new address clearly on the process form and include a copy of your proof of residency.

If you need to change your name, update your photo, or correct other information on your license, you must renew in person. Online renewal does not allow any changes to personal information. Bring the document that supports the change (marriage certificate, court order, or other official record) along with your ID and proof of residency.

Fees and payment methods for Texas license renewal

Texas charges $16 for a two-year driver's license renewal or $32 for a five-year renewal. The fee is the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card.

If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fees are higher and the process is different — CDL renewals require an in-person visit and a medical examination in most cases. Check the Texas DPS website for current CDL renewal requirements and fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas license if I moved out of state?

Yes, you can renew by mail or online if your personal information has not changed and you still have a valid Texas address on file. If you have moved and need to update your address to an out-of-state location, you must renew in person at a Texas DPS office and bring proof of your new address. After renewal, your license will be mailed to that out-of-state address.

What if I lost my expired license and don't have the number?

For online renewal, you will need your driver's license number. If you do not have it, call the Texas DPS at 1-844-DPS-TEXAS and provide your name, date of birth, and Social Security number to look it up. For mail or in-person renewal, you do not need the number — bring your expired license if you have it, or just bring your ID and proof of residency.

How long is the temporary paper license valid?

The temporary paper license issued at a DPS office is valid for 45 days. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. If it does not arrive within that time, contact the DPS to check the status of your renewal.

Can I renew my license if it was suspended or revoked?

No. If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it. You must contact the Texas DPS or the court that issued the suspension or revocation to resolve the issue first. Once the suspension or revocation is lifted, you can then renew your license through the normal process.

What if I need my license before the mail renewal arrives?

If you need your license quickly, renew in person at a DPS office. You will receive a temporary paper license the same day that is valid for 45 days while your permanent license is mailed. Online renewal takes one to two weeks, which is faster than mail but slower than in-person.