How to Renew Your Driver's License in Virginia

Virginia License Renewal: The Basic Steps

In Virginia, you can renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a DMV location. Most people renew online through the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles website — it takes about 15 minutes, costs $36 for a five-year license, and you receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you cannot renew online, the mail and in-person routes are available, though in-person renewal at a DMV office typically requires an appointment.

Your license is valid for five years from the date of issue. Virginia sends renewal reminders by mail about 60 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for that notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Virginia DMV website is the fastest option and takes 7 to 10 business days for delivery.
You must have a valid Social Security number, current email address, and a credit or debit card to renew online.
If you cannot renew online, you can renew by mail by requesting a form from the DMV or renewing in person with an appointment.
Virginia licenses are valid for five years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
If your license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot use the standard renewal process and must retest.

Renewing Online Through the Virginia DMV Website

Online renewal is available if your current Virginia license is not expired and you meet Virginia's requirements. Go to the Virginia DMV website, select "Renew Your License," and follow the prompts. You will need your current license number, date of birth, Social Security number, and a valid email address. The system will verify your information against state records.

During online renewal, you will be asked to confirm or update your address, emergency contact information, and organ donor status. You will also declare whether you have any medical conditions that affect your ability to drive safely. Once you submit the form and pay the $36 fee with a credit or debit card, your process is complete. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If the online system tells you that you cannot renew online, it will explain why — usually because your license has expired, your information does not match state records, or you have a suspension or restriction on your record. In those cases, you will need to renew by mail or in person.

Renewing by Mail

To renew by mail, you must first request a renewal form from the Virginia DMV. You can read the form (DL 43) from the DMV website, call the DMV at 804-367-0538, or visit a DMV office to pick one up. Fill out the form completely, including your current license number, date of birth, and any changes to your address or medical information.

Mail the completed form along with a check or money order for $36 (made payable to the Treasurer of Virginia) to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of your current license if possible. Mail renewal typically takes 4 to 6 weeks from the time the DMV receives your form, plus mailing time in both directions. Keep a record of when you mailed the form in case you need to follow up.

Renewing In Person at a DMV Office

To renew in person, you must schedule an appointment through the Virginia DMV website or by calling 804-367-0538. Walk-in renewals are not available at most locations. Bring your current driver's 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 your address has changed, bring documents showing both your old and new addresses.

At your appointment, a DMV employee will verify your information, take a new photo, and process your renewal. You will pay $36 at the time of renewal. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, valid for 45 days while your permanent license is mailed to you. Your new license should arrive within 7 to 10 business days.

When You Cannot Use Standard Renewal

If your license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew through the standard process. Instead, you must explore for a new license as if you were a first-time driver. This means you will need to pass the written test and the road test, provide proof of identity and residency, and pay the full fee for a new license (which is higher than a renewal fee).

You also cannot use standard renewal if your license was suspended or revoked, if you have an active restriction that has changed, or if you have a medical condition that requires a new evaluation. In these cases, contact the Virginia DMV directly to find out what steps you need to take.

What Happens If Your License Expires

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Virginia, even if you have submitted a renewal process. If you are stopped by police, you can show proof that you have applied for renewal (such as a confirmation email from online renewal or a tracking number from mail renewal), but this does not may provide you will avoid a ticket.

If your license expires while you are waiting for your new one to arrive, you can print a temporary license from the Virginia DMV website if you renewed online. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and can be used while you wait for your permanent license. If you renewed by mail or in person, you should have received a temporary paper license at the time of renewal.

License Renewal Fees and Payment

A five-year Virginia driver's license renewal costs $36. This fee applies whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. Payment methods vary by renewal method: online renewal accepts credit or debit cards, mail renewal requires a check or money order, and in-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, or credit card (depending on the DMV office).

If you are a Virginia resident over 65 years old, you may be may be able to access for a reduced fee or a longer license validity period. Contact the Virginia DMV to ask about senior discounts or options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Virginia license if I moved out of state?

No. If you no longer live in Virginia, you must obtain a driver's license from your new state of residence. You can surrender your Virginia license by mail or in person at a DMV office, or straightforward let it expire and obtain a new license in your current state.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, you cannot use standard renewal. You must renew in person at a DMV office and bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change (such as a marriage certificate or court order). Online and mail renewal do not allow name changes.

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

Your new license should arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete your online renewal. If you need to drive before it arrives, you can print a temporary license from the DMV website that is valid for 45 days.

Can I renew my license if I have a suspension on my record?

No. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew through the standard process. You must contact the Virginia DMV to resolve the suspension first. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew your license through the normal channels.

What if I lost my current license before renewing?

If you have lost your license, you must replace it before you can renew. You can replace your license in person at a DMV office or by mail. Once you have your replacement license, you can then renew it through the standard renewal process.

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.