How to Renew Your Texas Driver's License

The fastest way to renew your Texas DL

You can renew your Texas driver's license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. Online renewal is the quickest option — you can complete it in minutes from home, and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes longer but requires no office visit. In-person renewal at a DPS office is necessary only if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need to update your address or other information, or if you want to renew early.

Your may be able to access for each method depends on how long your license has been expired and whether your information has changed. Most Texans renewing on time can use online or mail renewal without visiting an office.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Texas DPS website takes 7 to 10 business days and costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license.
You can renew online only if your license expired less than two years ago and you have not changed your address, name, or other personal information.
Mail renewal requires you to send your current license and a completed Form DL-44 to the DPS, and processing takes 4 to 6 weeks.
If your license expired more than two years ago or you need to update your information, you must renew in person at a DPS office.
Texas licenses are valid for four or eight years depending on your age and the type of license you hold.

Online renewal through the Texas DPS website

To renew online, go to the Texas DPS website and select the online renewal option. You will need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The system will verify your identity and ask you to confirm your address and other personal information. If everything matches the DPS records, you can complete the renewal in about 10 minutes.

Online renewal is available only if your license expired less than two years ago and your address, name, and other information have not changed. If you have moved, changed your name, or need to correct any information on your license, you must renew by mail or in person. The fee is $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, depending on your age.

After you submit your process online, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file and should arrive within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive using your current license until the new one arrives.

Mail renewal with Form DL-44

To renew by mail, read or request Form DL-44 from the Texas DPS website. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it along with your current driver's license to the address shown on the form. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee ($16 for four years or $32 for eight years). Do not send cash.

Mail renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks from the time the DPS receives your process. You can continue to drive using your current license during this time. If you need your new license sooner, in-person renewal at a DPS office is faster — you can receive a temporary license the same day and your permanent license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Mail renewal is a good option if you cannot visit a DPS office and your license has not been expired for more than two years. If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew by mail and must go to a DPS office in person.

In-person renewal at a DPS office

Visit any Texas DPS office with your current driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and a payment method. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than two years ago, if you need to update your address or personal information, or if you want to renew before your expiration date. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 45 days while your permanent license is mailed to you. Your new license should arrive within 7 to 10 business days.

DPS offices are open Monday through Friday during regular business hours. Wait times vary by location and time of day. You can find your nearest office and check current wait times on the Texas DPS website. No appointment is required for standard renewals, but some offices offer online scheduling to reduce wait time.

What happens if your license has been expired for more than two years

If your Texas driver's license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license. This means you will need to take the written test and the road test again, just as you would if you were getting your first license. You will also need to provide proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.

The written test covers Texas traffic laws and safe driving practices. The road test is conducted by a DPS examiner and lasts about 20 minutes. You can schedule both tests at a DPS office. Bring a vehicle that is registered and insured, and have a licensed driver accompany you to the test if you do not have a valid license.

The fee for a new license is the same as renewal ($16 for four years or $32 for eight years). If you have not driven in a long time, consider taking a defensive driving course before your road test — some insurance companies offer discounts for completing one, and it can help you refresh your skills.

License types and validity periods in Texas

Texas offers several types of driver's licenses, and the validity period depends on your age and the type of license you hold. A standard Class C driver's license is valid for four years if you are under 85 years old, or eight years if you are 85 or older. A commercial driver's license (CDL) is valid for four years. A motorcycle endorsement follows the same validity period as your Class C license.

When you renew, you will receive the same type of license unless you request a change. If you want to add a motorcycle endorsement or upgrade to a CDL, you will need to take the appropriate written test and road test. These tests can be scheduled at any DPS office.

Your license expiration date is printed on the front of your license. You can renew up to one year before your license expires, which gives you time to plan ahead. If you are close to your expiration date, renewing early by mail or in person ensures you do not accidentally drive with an expired license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas driver's license online if I moved to a new address?

No. Online renewal is available only if your address, name, and other personal information have not changed. If you moved, you must renew by mail or in person at a DPS office. In-person renewal allows you to update your address when ready, and you will receive a temporary license the same day.

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

Your new license should arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you submit your online process. You can continue to drive using your current license until the new one arrives. If you need your license sooner, renew in person at a DPS office to receive a temporary license the same day.

What do I do if my Texas driver's license expired more than two years ago?

You cannot renew an expired license — you must explore for a new one. This requires you to take the written test and road test again. Visit a DPS office with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number to begin the process.

Do I need an appointment to renew my license in person at a DPS office?

Appointments are not required for standard renewals, but some DPS offices offer online scheduling to reduce your wait time. Check the Texas DPS website to find your nearest office and see if scheduling is available in your area. Walk-ins are accepted, but arriving early or during off-peak hours can mean shorter waits.

Can I renew my Texas driver's license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?

Outstanding tickets or fines do not prevent you from renewing your license. However, if you have unpaid child support or certain other court-ordered obligations, your license may be suspended. Check your status on the Texas DPS website or contact your local DPS office before you renew to confirm there are no holds on your 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.