How to Renew Your Expired California Driver's License

The fastest way to renew your expired California license

If your California driver's license has expired, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. The method you choose depends on how long ago it expired and whether you need to update your photo or address. Most people can renew online or by mail without visiting an office, which takes two to three weeks.

California allows you to renew a license up to five years after it expires, so you have time. However, you cannot legally drive with an expired license, even if your renewal is in progress. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, you can request a temporary license at an DMV office.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the DMV website works for most people and takes about two to three weeks from submission to delivery.
Mail renewal requires you to send your expired license, a completed form, and payment to the DMV; it also takes two to three weeks.
In-person renewal at an DMV office is fastest if you need a temporary license to drive when ready, though you may wait hours for an appointment.
You cannot renew online if your license expired more than five years ago, if you need a new photo, or if your address has changed and you cannot verify it online.
A temporary license issued at an DMV office is valid for 60 days and lets you drive while your permanent license is being mailed.

Online renewal through the DMV website

Online renewal is the fastest and most convenient option if you meet the requirements. You can renew online if your license expired fewer than five years ago, you do not need to change your photo, and your current address is on file with the DMV. You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card).

Go to the California DMV website and select "Renew Your Driver License" under the Online Services section. Answer the questions about your license status and personal information. If the system confirms you are may be able to access, you will pay the renewal fee (currently $38 for a four-year renewal or $48 for a six-year renewal, though fees change periodically). Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within two to three weeks.

If the online system tells you that you cannot renew online, note the reason — it will tell you whether you need to visit an office in person or whether you can renew by mail instead.

Mail renewal with a paper form

Mail renewal works if your license expired fewer than five years ago and you do not need to update your photo. You will need to complete Form DL 44 (process for California Driver License or Identification Card) or Form DL 43 (Renewal process for California Driver License or Identification Card). The DMV website has both forms as downloadable PDFs.

Print the form, fill it out completely, sign it, and enclose your expired license along with payment. Mail everything to the DMV address listed on the form. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee — do not send cash. Your new license will arrive by mail in two to three weeks.

Keep a copy of the form and proof of mailing (such as a receipt from the post office) in case the DMV does not receive your process. If you do not hear back within four weeks, contact the DMV to confirm they received it.

In-person renewal at a DMV office

Visit a DMV office if you need a temporary license to drive when ready, if you need to update your photo, or if the online and mail options told you that you must renew in person. You will need to bring your expired license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment for the renewal fee.

Make an appointment through the DMV website before you go — walk-in service is limited and wait times can be several hours. At your appointment, a DMV employee will take a new photo, verify your information, and process your renewal. You will receive a temporary license valid for 60 days, which you can use to drive when ready. Your permanent license will be mailed to you within two to three weeks.

When your license expired more than five years ago

If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot use the online or mail renewal process. You must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and payment.

You will also need to pass a vision test at the DMV office. Depending on your age and how long your license has been expired, you may need to pass a written test as well. The DMV will tell you what tests you need when you make your appointment or when you arrive at the office.

Updating your address during renewal

If you have moved since your license was issued, you can update your address during renewal. If you renew online, the system will ask for your current address and will attempt to verify it using DMV records. If verification succeeds, you can complete your renewal online.

If the online system cannot verify your new address, you must renew by mail or in person. For mail renewal, write your new address on the process form. For in-person renewal, bring proof of your new address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days) along with your expired license and payment.

Temporary licenses and driving while your renewal is pending

You cannot legally drive with an expired license, even if your renewal process is being processed. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, you must get a temporary license from a DMV office.

A temporary license is valid for 60 days and is issued on the spot when you renew in person. It is printed on paper and serves as proof that you can drive while your permanent license is in the mail. If your permanent license does not arrive within 60 days, you can request another temporary license at a DMV office.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to renew a California driver's license?

The renewal fee is currently $38 for a four-year license or $48 for a six-year license. Fees are set by California law and may change. If you renew online or by mail, you pay only the renewal fee. If you renew in person and need a new photo, the fee is the same.

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?

Yes, an outstanding ticket or fine does not prevent you from renewing your license. However, if you have a suspended license due to unpaid fines or other violations, you must resolve the suspension before you can renew. Contact the DMV or the court that issued the suspension to find out how to clear it.

What if my name has changed since my license was issued?

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must renew in person at a DMV office and bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order). The DMV will issue a new license with your current name.

How long does it take to receive a renewed license by mail?

Most renewed licenses arrive within two to three weeks of submission. Delivery times can vary depending on mail volume and your location. If you do not receive your license within four weeks, contact the DMV to confirm they received your process and to check the status.

Can I renew my license online if I wear glasses or contacts?

Yes, you can renew online even if you wear corrective lenses. The online system does not require you to take a new vision test unless your current license indicates a vision restriction. If your license requires you to wear glasses or contacts while driving, that restriction will carry over to your renewed license.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.