How to Renew Your Virginia Driver's License

Virginia renewal works by mail, online, or in person depending on your situation

Virginia lets you renew your driver's license through the mail, online, or at a DMV office. Which route you take depends on how much time you have left, whether your license is still valid, and what type of license you hold. Most people can renew online or by mail without visiting an office, but some circumstances require an in-person visit.

Your Virginia license is valid for eight years if you're under 70, or five years if you're 70 or older. You can start the renewal process up to one year before your license expires, which gives you flexibility in timing.

Key Takeaways

Virginia offers online renewal through the DMV website for most standard licenses that haven't been suspended or revoked.
Mail renewal takes about two weeks and costs the same as online, but you must have a valid license and meet the same restrictions as online renewal.
In-person renewal at a DMV office is required if your license is suspended, revoked, or if you need to update your address, name, or medical information.
You'll need your Social Security number, current Virginia license number, and a valid payment method (credit card, debit card, or electronic check) for online renewal.
Renewal fees vary: $40 for a four-year license, $60 for an eight-year license, or $30 for a five-year license if you're 70 or older.

Online renewal through the Virginia DMV website

Online renewal is the fastest option and takes about 10 minutes. You go to the Virginia DMV website, create or log into your account, and complete the renewal form. You'll need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The system will ask you to confirm your personal information and address, and you can update either one during the process.

Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is not available if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired for more than one year, or if you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL).

Mail renewal by sending in your current license

To renew by mail, you print the renewal form from the Virginia DMV website, fill it out, and mail it along with your current license and payment to the address listed on the form. The DMV processes mail renewals in the order they're received, and your new license typically arrives within two to three weeks.

Mail renewal has the same restrictions as online renewal: your license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. You cannot renew by mail if your license expired more than one year ago. If you need to update your address or name, you can do so on the form, but if you need to update medical information or your photo, you'll need to visit a DMV office instead.

In-person renewal at a Virginia DMV office

You must renew in person if your license is suspended or revoked, if it expired more than one year ago, or if you need to update your photo, medical information, or organ donor status. You'll also need to visit an office if you're renewing a commercial driver's license or if you want to change your name or address and don't want to do it by mail.

Bring your current Virginia license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). If you're changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Payment is by cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

Wait times at DMV offices vary by location and time of day. You can check wait times on the Virginia DMV website before you go. Many offices allow you to make an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time significantly.

What happens if your license is suspended or revoked

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it online or by mail. You must visit a DMV office in person. The DMV will tell you the reason for the suspension or revocation and what you need to do to resolve it. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or medical conditions reported to the DMV.

Depending on the reason, you may need to provide proof that you've resolved the issue before the DMV will renew your license. For example, if your license was suspended for unpaid fines, you'll need to show proof of payment. If it was suspended for a medical reason, you may need a letter from your doctor. Contact the Virginia DMV directly to find out what documentation you need for your specific situation.

Renewal fees and payment methods

Virginia renewal fees depend on the length of the license you want. An eight-year license costs $60, a four-year license costs $40, and a five-year license for people 70 and older costs $30. These fees are the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person.

Online and mail renewal accept credit cards, debit cards, and electronic checks. In-person renewal accepts cash, checks, debit cards, and credit cards. If you're renewing by mail and paying by check, make the check payable to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

Updating your information during renewal

You can update your address during online or mail renewal without visiting an office. The renewal form will ask you to confirm your current address and give you the option to change it. If you're renewing online, you can update your address in your account before you submit the renewal.

If you need to change your name, update your photo, change your medical information, or update your organ donor status, you must renew in person at a DMV office. Bring the required documents for the change you're making—for example, a marriage certificate if you're changing your name, or a letter from your doctor if you're updating medical information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Virginia license if it's already expired?

If your license expired less than one year ago, you can renew it online or by mail using the same process as a standard renewal. If it expired more than one year ago, you must renew in person at a DMV office and may need to retake the written test or vision test depending on how long it's been expired.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?

Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days after you complete the online renewal. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need your license faster, you can visit a DMV office in person and receive a temporary license the same day.

What if I move out of Virginia before my license expires?

If you move to another state, you'll need to get a driver's license from that state. You don't need to renew your Virginia license. If you move within Virginia, you can update your address during online or mail renewal, or in person at a DMV office.

Do I need to take a new photo when I renew my Virginia license?

If you renew online or by mail, your photo from your current license will be used on your new license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a DMV office. In-person renewal includes a new photo as part of the process.

Can I renew my commercial driver's license online?

No, commercial driver's licenses must be renewed in person at a DMV office. Bring your current CDL, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address. You may need to pass a medical examination depending on the type of commercial license you hold.

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.