How to Renew Your Texas Driver's License

Texas driver's licenses renew every 8 years, and you can renew in person, by mail, or online depending on your situation

In Texas, your driver's license stays valid for 8 years from the date it was issued. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will mail you a renewal notice about 60 days before your license expires, but you do not have to wait for that notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year early if you want to.

The method you use depends on whether your address has changed, whether you need a new photo, and how much time you have. Most people can renew online or by mail without visiting a DPS office, but some situations require an in-person visit.

Key Takeaways

Texas licenses are valid for 8 years, and DPS mails a renewal notice about 60 days before expiration.
Online renewal through the Texas DPS website is the fastest option if your address has not changed and you do not need a new photo.
Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks and works if your address is current, but you will keep your old photo.
In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if you have moved, want a new photo, or if your license is expired by more than 2 years.
You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid form of identification to renew.

Online renewal: the fastest route if your address has not changed

Online renewal through the Texas DPS website takes about 10 minutes and is available if you meet three conditions: your address on file is still correct, your license is not expired by more than 2 years, and you do not want a new photo. You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth.

Go to the Texas DPS website, select "Renew Your Driver License," and follow the prompts. You will pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card. Your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. This is the option most people choose because it requires no office visit and no waiting.

Mail renewal: keeping your current photo

If you prefer not to use the online system or do not have a credit card, you can renew by mail. Fill out Form DL-44 (process for Texas Driver License), include a copy of your current license, and mail both to the address shown on the DPS website. You will also need to include a check or money order for the renewal fee.

Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time DPS receives your packet. Your new license will have the same photo as your current one. This method works only if your address has not changed and your license is not expired by more than 2 years. If either of those conditions does not explore, you must renew in person.

In-person renewal at a DPS office

You must visit a DPS office to renew if your address has changed, if you want a new photo, or if your license has been expired for more than 2 years. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days works), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number.

DPS offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though hours vary by location. You can check wait times and book an appointment online through the Texas DPS website, which can save you time. In-person renewal takes about 15 to 20 minutes once you are called. Your new license is issued on the spot, though you will receive a paper temporary license valid for 45 days while your permanent card is mailed to you.

What to bring and what it costs

For any renewal method, you will need your current Texas driver's license or ID card. If you are renewing in person, bring proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail dated within 60 days) and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return).

The renewal fee for a standard 8-year license is $33. If you want to add a Real ID endorsement (required for federal buildings and flights), the fee is $16 more. Payment methods depend on how you renew: online and mail renewals accept credit cards or checks; in-person renewals accept cash, check, or card.

What happens if your license has expired

If your license expired fewer than 2 years ago, you can renew online or by mail using the same process as a current license. If it expired more than 2 years ago, you must renew in person at a DPS office. You cannot legally drive with an expired license, even if you have already started the renewal process.

If your license expired while you were out of state or out of the country, you may be able to renew by mail or online even if more than 2 years have passed. Contact the DPS to explain your situation before you attempt to renew, because the rules for military members and people living abroad differ from the standard process.

Real ID endorsement and license type changes

When you renew, you can add a Real ID endorsement to your license if you do not already have one. A Real ID is required to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. Adding it costs $16 and requires you to bring proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers) and proof of your Social Security number.

If you want to change your license type—for example, from a standard license to a commercial driver's license (CDL)—you cannot do that during renewal. You must explore for a new license of the different type, which requires an in-person visit, a written test, and a road test depending on the type of change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas license if I have moved out of state?

No. Your Texas license is only valid if you are a Texas resident. If you have moved to another state, you must get a driver's license from that state. You can renew a Texas license only if you still live in Texas or are temporarily out of state (for military service, for example) and plan to return.

What if I lost my license and need to renew at the same time?

You will need to replace your lost license before you can renew. Visit a DPS office with proof of identity and pay the replacement fee (usually $11). Once you have a replacement license, you can renew it using any of the three methods. You cannot renew online or by mail if you do not have your current license number.

How long does a temporary paper license last?

If you renew in person, DPS gives you a paper temporary license valid for 45 days. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail during that time. If it does not arrive within 45 days, contact DPS to check the status. Do not drive after the temporary license expires, even if you are still waiting for the permanent one.

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

Yes, you can renew your license even if you have unpaid traffic fines. However, DPS may suspend your license if you do not pay a fine by the court's important date. Check your ticket or contact the court to find out when payment is due. Renewing your license does not clear any fines you owe.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must renew in person and bring a document proving the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). You cannot renew online or by mail with a name change. The process is the same as a standard in-person renewal, but you will need the additional document.

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.