What You Need to Know Before You Start
Louisiana lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at an Office of Motor Vehicles (OMV). Which route you take depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have, and what type of license you hold. Most people can renew without taking a new photo or passing a test — but not all.
Your Louisiana license is valid for four, six, or eight years depending on your age when you got it. You can renew up to six months before it expires. If your license has already expired, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test.
Key Takeaways
- Louisiana offers online renewal through the OMV website for most drivers whose licenses are still valid and who do not need a new photo.
- Mail renewal takes about two weeks and costs less than in-person renewal, but you cannot use it if your license has expired or if you need a new photo.
- In-person renewal at an OMV office is required if your license has expired, if you need a new photo, or if you are changing your name or address.
- You will need your current license, proof of Louisiana residency, and proof of Social Security number for any renewal method.
- Renewal fees range from about $20 to $60 depending on the license type and how many years you renew for.
Online Renewal Through the OMV Website
Online renewal is the fastest option if your license is still valid and you do not need a new photo. You go to the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles website, log in or create an account, and complete the renewal form. You pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card. The OMV mails your new license to the address on file, which usually takes five to seven business days after approval.
You cannot renew online if your license has expired, if you need to update your photo, if you are changing your name, or if you are changing your address. You also cannot use online renewal if you have a commercial driver's license (CDL) or a motorcycle endorsement. If any of these explore to you, skip to the in-person section below.
Mail Renewal by Sending Documents
Mail renewal works if your license is still valid and you do not need a new photo. You print the renewal form from the OMV website, fill it out, and mail it along with your current license and the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. The OMV processes mail renewals in the order they arrive, which usually takes two to three weeks.
Mail renewal costs less than in-person renewal because you avoid the OMV office fee. However, you lose your current license while it is in the mail, so you cannot drive with it during processing. This method works best if you have time to wait and do not need to drive with a valid license when ready. If your license expires before your new one arrives, you will have to renew in person instead.
In-Person Renewal at an OMV Office
You must renew in person if your license has expired, if you need a new photo, if you are changing your name or address, or if you hold a CDL or motorcycle endorsement. You can also choose in-person renewal even if you are not required to — it is the fastest way to get a new license in your hand the same day.
Bring your current license, proof of Louisiana residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The OMV office will take a new photo, you will pay the renewal fee, and you will receive a temporary paper license to drive on while your plastic license is printed and mailed.
Wait times at OMV offices vary by location and time of day. You can check the OMV website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times before you go. Some offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can save you time.
What Happens If Your License Has Already Expired
If your license expired more than a few months ago, you cannot renew it — you have to explore for a new one. This means you must go to an OMV office in person, bring the same documents you would for in-person renewal, and you may have to retake the written test. The OMV will tell you whether a test is required based on how long your license has been expired.
If your license expired very recently (within the grace period your state allows), you may still be able to renew instead of reapplying. Call your local OMV office or check the website to find out whether you still fall within the renewal window.
Renewal Fees and License Validity Periods
Louisiana renewal fees depend on the type of license and how long you renew for. A standard driver's license renewal costs between $20 and $60. Commercial driver's licenses and licenses with endorsements (motorcycle, hazmat) cost more. You can renew for four, six, or eight years — longer renewals cost more upfront but mean you renew less often.
The OMV website shows the exact fee for your situation before you pay. If you are renewing by mail, include a check or money order for the correct amount. If you are renewing online or in person, you can pay by credit card, debit card, or cash (in-person only).
Documents You Need for Each Renewal Method
| Renewal Method | Documents Required | Photo Update | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Current license, proof of Social Security number | No — uses existing photo | 5–7 business days |
| Current license, renewal form, proof of Social Security number | No — uses existing photo | 2–3 weeks | |
| In-person | Current license, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number | Yes — new photo taken | Same day (temporary license) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Louisiana license if I live out of state?
Yes, you can renew by mail or online as long as your license is still valid and you do not need a new photo. If you need a new photo or your license has expired, you will have to renew in person at an OMV office in Louisiana or contact the OMV about other options.
What if I lost my license and need to renew at the same time?
You cannot renew a lost license online or by mail. Go to an OMV office in person with proof of residency and proof of your Social Security number. The OMV will issue a replacement license and renew it at the same time. You will pay both the replacement fee and the renewal fee.
Do I have to take a new written test to renew?
No, not for a standard renewal. You only take a test if your license has been expired for a long time and the OMV requires it as part of reapplication. If you are renewing while your license is still valid, no test is required.
How long does my temporary paper license last?
Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days. Your plastic license should arrive by mail before then. If it does not, contact the OMV office where you renewed to check the status.
Can I change my address when I renew?
Yes, but you must do it in person at an OMV office. Bring proof of your new Louisiana address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement). You cannot change your address through online or mail renewal.