The fastest way to renew in Missouri
Missouri lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a license office — and the method you choose depends on how much time you have and whether your license is still valid. If your license hasn't expired yet, you can renew online through the Missouri Department of Revenue website in about 10 minutes. If it has expired, you'll need to go to a license office in person or mail in a paper process.
Most people renew online because it's the quickest option and you can do it from home. The state will mail your new license to you within 7 to 10 business days. If you need a license sooner — for travel or work — going to a license office in person gets you a temporary paper license the same day and your plastic card within two weeks.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the Missouri Department of Revenue website works only if your license hasn't expired and you haven't changed your address, name, or other personal information.
- If your license has expired, you must renew in person at a Missouri license office or by mail using Form DL 43.
- You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card) to renew online.
- The renewal fee is $13.50 for a four-year license or $27 for an eight-year license, and you can choose which length when you renew.
- A temporary paper license issued at a license office is valid for 30 days and lets you drive while you wait for your plastic card.
Renewing online through the Missouri Department of Revenue
Online renewal is available only if your current license is still valid (not expired), your address and personal information haven't changed, and you don't need to update your photo. Go to the Missouri Department of Revenue website, select "Driver License Services," and choose "Renew Driver License Online." You'll enter your license number, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.
Once verified, you'll choose your license length (four or eight years), review your information, and pay the renewal fee with a debit or credit card. The state charges $13.50 for a four-year license or $27 for an eight-year license. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.
If any of your information has changed — your name, address, or appearance — you cannot renew online. You'll need to renew in person at a license office instead.
Renewing in person at a Missouri license office
Visit any Missouri license office if your license has expired, you need to update your photo, or you need a license right away. Bring your current license (or expired license if that's all you have), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). You'll also need to pass a vision test at the office.
When you arrive, take a number and wait to be called. A staff member will verify your information, take a new photo, and process your renewal. You'll pay the same fee as online renewal ($13.50 for four years or $27 for eight years) by cash, check, or card. You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days, which lets you drive when ready. Your plastic license card will be mailed to you within two weeks.
License offices are busiest on weekday mornings and Saturdays. If you want to avoid a long wait, call ahead or check the Missouri Department of Revenue website to see current wait times at your local office.
Renewing by mail with Form DL 43
You can renew by mail if your license has expired and you prefer not to visit an office in person. read Form DL 43 from the Missouri Department of Revenue website or request it by phone at 573-526-2407. Fill out the form completely, including your license number, date of birth, and current address.
Mail the completed form along with your current or expired license and a check or money order for the renewal fee ($13.50 for four years or $27 for eight years) to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of your proof of address (utility bill or lease dated within 60 days). Mail renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks from the time the state receives your process, so plan ahead if you need your license by a specific date.
Keep a copy of everything you mail for your records. If your process is incomplete or the state has questions, they will contact you by phone or mail.
What documents you need for each renewal method
| Renewal Method | Documents Needed | Time to Receive License |
|---|---|---|
| Online | Current license number, date of birth, last four digits of Social Security number, payment method | 7–10 business days |
| In Person | Current or expired license, proof of Social Security number, proof of address (within 60 days) | Temporary license same day; plastic card within 2 weeks |
| By Mail | Completed Form DL 43, current or expired license, proof of address (within 60 days), check or money order | 4–6 weeks |
License length options and costs
When you renew, Missouri gives you the choice between a four-year license and an eight-year license. A four-year license costs $13.50 and an eight-year license costs $27. The eight-year license costs more upfront but works out cheaper per year and means you won't need to renew as often.
Your choice doesn't affect how you drive or what you're allowed to do — it's purely about how long before you renew again. If you're not sure which to pick, the four-year option lets you renew sooner if your circumstances change (like a name change or address move) without paying for a longer license you won't use.
What to do if your license has been expired for more than a year
If your Missouri license expired more than a year ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license. This means you'll need to take the written test and road test again, just like a first-time driver. Visit a license office with your proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of address to start the process.
The written test covers Missouri traffic laws and road signs. The road test is a driving evaluation with a state examiner. Both tests are required before you can get a new license. This process takes longer than renewal and costs more, so if your license is close to expiring, renew it before it lapses for a full year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Missouri license if I've moved to another state?
No. You must renew your license in the state where you currently live. If you've moved out of Missouri, you'll need to get a license from your new state. If you're moving to Missouri and have an out-of-state license, you can transfer it by visiting a license office with your current license, proof of address, and proof of Social Security number.
What if I lost my license and need to renew?
You can still renew by mail or in person even if you've lost your license. At a license office, bring your proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of address. By mail, send a completed Form DL 43 with your proof of address and payment. The state will issue a new license without requiring you to take tests again.
Do I need an appointment to renew at a Missouri license office?
No appointment is required, but you can check wait times on the Missouri Department of Revenue website before you go. Some offices are less busy at certain times of day. If you prefer, you can call your local office to ask when they're typically quietest.
Can I renew online if I want to change my address?
No. Online renewal only works if your address and all personal information stay the same. If you've moved, you must renew in person at a license office or by mail using Form DL 43. Bring or mail proof of your new address (utility bill or lease dated within 60 days).
How long is my temporary paper license valid?
A temporary paper license issued at a Missouri license office is valid for 30 days. It lets you drive legally while you wait for your plastic license card to arrive by mail. Once your plastic card comes, the paper license is no longer needed.