Louisiana driver's license renewal basics

Louisiana driver's licenses expire every four years, and you can renew yours online, by mail, or in person at an Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you've had a name change, and whether you need to update your address or other information. Most people renew online or by mail without visiting an office.

The state charges a renewal fee that varies based on your license type and how many years you're renewing for. Standard four-year renewals cost less than eight-year renewals. If you renew before your current license expires, you can do it online or by mail. If your license has already expired, you'll need to renew in person at an OMV office.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website is the fastest option if your license is still valid and you haven't changed your name or address.
  • Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks and requires you to send your current license, a completed process, and payment to the OMV.
  • In-person renewal at an OMV office is required if your license has expired, you've changed your name, or you need to update your photo.
  • You'll need proof of identity, proof of Louisiana residency, and your Social Security number to renew, regardless of which method you choose.
  • Louisiana offers both four-year and eight-year license options; eight-year licenses cost more but last twice as long.

Renewing online through the Louisiana OMV website

Online renewal is available if your license is currently valid and you haven't had a legal name change since it was issued. You'll go to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website, create an account or log in, and follow the renewal steps. The system will ask you to confirm your personal information, choose your license term (four or eight years), and pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card.

Once you complete the online process, the OMV mails your new license to the address on file. This typically takes seven to ten business days after you submit your renewal. You can use your current license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is free of any additional processing fees beyond the standard renewal cost.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal works if your license is still valid and you don't need to change your photo, name, or address. You'll need to request a renewal process from the OMV or read one from their website. Fill out the form completely, include your current license, and send everything along with a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the process.

Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the OMV receives your packet. Send your materials to the correct regional OMV office based on your parish, as Louisiana divides processing by location. Keep a copy of everything you send and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provide on the process.

Renewing in person at an OMV office

In-person renewal is necessary if your license has expired, you've changed your legal name, you want to update your photo, or you need to change your address. Visit your local OMV office during business hours with the required documents. Bring your current license (even if expired), proof of identity, proof of Louisiana residency, and your Social Security number or a document showing it.

Processing times at OMV offices vary by location and how busy the office is. Some offices issue temporary licenses on the spot while your permanent license is mailed, though this depends on the office. Call ahead to find your nearest OMV office and ask about wait times, especially if you're renewing near a holiday or at the end of the month when offices tend to be busier.

Documents and information you'll need

For any renewal method, you'll need to provide your Social Security number and confirm your current address. If you're renewing in person or by mail, bring or include proof of identity such as a passport, military ID, or birth certificate. You'll also need proof that you live in Louisiana, which can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

If you've changed your name since your license was issued, you must renew in person and bring legal documentation of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're renewing your address, make sure the new address is in Louisiana; if you've moved out of state, you'll need to get a license from your new state instead.

License types and renewal costs

Louisiana offers standard four-year licenses and optional eight-year licenses. The four-year renewal is the default and costs less upfront. The eight-year license costs more but means you won't need to renew again for eight years, which can be worth it if you prefer fewer trips to the OMV or want to avoid renewal fees more often.

Renewal fees change periodically and depend on which type of license you're getting. Check the Louisiana OMV website for current pricing before you renew. Some people may have access to for reduced fees or fee waivers based on age or military status, so ask at the OMV office or check their website to see if you may have access to.

What happens if your license expires

If your Louisiana license expires, you cannot legally drive. You must renew in person at an OMV office; online and mail renewal are not available for expired licenses. Bring all required documents and be prepared to wait, as expired license renewals sometimes take longer than standard renewals.

Driving with an expired license can result in a traffic ticket and fines. If you're pulled over, tell the officer that your license is expired and that you're in the process of renewing it. This doesn't excuse the violation, but it may help explain the situation. Renew as soon as possible to avoid legal trouble.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Louisiana license if I've moved out of state?

No. If you no longer live in Louisiana, you need to get a driver's license from your new state instead. You can't renew a Louisiana license if you're not a resident. Contact your new state's motor vehicle agency to begin the process there.

How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?

Online renewal typically takes seven to ten business days. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from when the OMV receives your packet. In-person renewal may issue a temporary license on the spot at some offices, with the permanent license mailed within one to two weeks.

What if I need my license before the new one arrives?

If you renewed online or by mail, your current license remains valid until it expires, so you can continue using it while you wait for the new one. If you renewed in person and the office issued a temporary license, use that. If you need the license urgently, ask the OMV office whether they can expedite mailing for an additional fee.

Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?

If you renew online or by mail, the OMV uses your existing photo. If you want a new photo or if your current photo is more than eight years old, you must renew in person at an OMV office. The office will take a new photo as part of the in-person renewal process.

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

Louisiana may suspend your license if you have unpaid traffic fines or court-ordered payments. Check with the OMV or the court that issued the ticket to find out whether your license is suspended. If it is, you'll need to resolve the fine or payment before you can renew.