How Missouri License Renewal Works
In Missouri, you can renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a license office — and which method you use depends on whether your license is still valid and what type of license you hold. Most people renew before their current license expires, which keeps the process straightforward and fast. If your license has already expired, you'll have more limited options and may need to take a written test.
Missouri issues licenses valid for six years for drivers under 70, and three years for drivers 70 and older. The state sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your expiration date, so watch for that notice — it contains information you'll need for online or mail renewal.
Key Takeaways
- Missouri allows online renewal for most drivers whose licenses are still valid and who haven't changed their address, name, or medical status.
- Mail renewal takes about two weeks and requires the renewal notice that Missouri sends you before expiration.
- In-person renewal at a license office is required if your license has expired, if you need to update your address or name, or if you want to change your photo.
- You'll need to bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number when renewing in person.
- Missouri does not require a road test for license renewal, but you may be asked to take a vision test or written test depending on your age and driving record.
Renewing Online Through Missouri's Website
Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access. You can renew at dmv.mo.gov as long as your license is still valid, you haven't changed your legal name, your address hasn't changed, and you have no medical conditions that would affect your driving. The process takes about 10 minutes and costs the standard renewal fee.
To renew online, you'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Missouri will mail your new license to the address on file, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can continue driving legally during that time.
If you've moved, changed your name, or want to update your photo, you cannot use online renewal — you'll need to renew in person instead.
Renewing by Mail
Mail renewal is available if your license is still valid and you meet the same conditions as online renewal: no name change, no address change, and no new medical issues. You'll use the renewal notice Missouri mailed you, which includes a form and instructions. Fill out the form, include your current license, and mail everything to the address shown on the notice along with the renewal fee.
Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time Missouri receives your packet. During that time, your current license remains valid. Once processed, your new license will be mailed to your address on file.
Renewing in Person at a License Office
You must renew in person if your license has expired, if you've changed your name or address, if you want to update your photo, or if you have a medical condition that needs to be reported. You can also choose in-person renewal even if you're may be able to access for online or mail renewal.
Bring these documents to your local license office:
- Your current driver's license (or expired license if it's been less than five years since expiration)
- Proof of residency, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days
- Proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form
- Your renewal notice, if you have it
At the office, you'll complete an process, have your photo taken, and pay the renewal fee. You may be asked to take a vision test or a written knowledge test depending on your age and driving history. If you pass, you'll receive a temporary license to use when ready, and your permanent license will be mailed within 7 to 10 business days.
Costs and Validity Periods
Missouri renewal fees vary based on your license type and age. A standard six-year renewal for drivers under 70 costs one amount, while a three-year renewal for drivers 70 and older costs less. If you're renewing an expired license, you may pay a late fee in addition to the standard renewal fee.
Once renewed, your new license is valid for six years if you're under 70, or three years if you're 70 or older. Missouri does not offer a one-year or two-year renewal option — you renew for the full period each time.
What Happens If Your License Has Expired
If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it — you'll need to explore for a new license instead, which requires taking a written test and a road test. If your license expired less than five years ago, you can still renew it, but you must do so in person at a license office. You cannot use online or mail renewal for an expired license.
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Missouri, even if you've submitted a renewal process. If you're stopped by police, you could face a fine or other penalties. If your license is about to expire and you won't be able to renew before the expiration date, contact your local license office to ask about a temporary extension or grace period.
Finding Your Local License Office
Missouri has license offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Missouri Department of Revenue website at dmv.mo.gov. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead to ask about wait times can help you plan your visit. Many offices allow you to make an appointment online, which can significantly reduce your wait time.
If you live far from a license office or have mobility challenges, contact your local office to ask about alternative options — some counties may offer limited services at other locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Missouri license if I've moved out of state?
No. If you've moved out of Missouri, you need to get a driver's license from your new state. You cannot renew a Missouri license if you no longer live in the state. Contact your new state's DMV to learn about getting a license there.
What if I lost my renewal notice?
You can still renew online or by mail without the notice — you just need your license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. If you prefer to renew by mail and want the form, you can contact your local license office and ask them to send you another copy of the notice.
Do I need to take a test to renew my license in Missouri?
No written or road test is required for renewal. However, you may be asked to take a vision test at a license office, and drivers with certain medical conditions or those renewing after a long lapse may be asked to take a written knowledge test.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
If you renew online or by mail, your new license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you renew in person, you'll receive a temporary license when ready and your permanent license will arrive within 7 to 10 business days.
Can I renew my license early?
Yes. Missouri allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early can be helpful if you're planning a trip or want to avoid a last-minute rush. Your new license will be valid for the full six or three years from the date of renewal, not from your old expiration date.