Renewing Your Texas Driver License: The Basic Steps

You can renew your Texas driver license online, by mail, or in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. Most people renew online through the Texas DPS website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. You do not need to take a new written test or road test unless your license has been suspended, revoked, or expired for more than two years.

Your renewal notice arrives in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. You can renew up to one year before the expiration date on your current license. If you have moved, changed your name, or need to correct information on your license, you will need to renew in person instead of online.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the Texas DPS website is the fastest option and requires only your driver license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method.
  • You are may be able to access to renew online only if your license is not suspended or revoked, you have not had a vision change, and your address and name have not changed.
  • Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send your current license, a completed DL-44 form, and a check or money order to the DPS.
  • In-person renewal at a DPS office is necessary if you need to update your address, name, or vision information, or if you prefer to do it face-to-face.
  • Texas driver licenses expire on your birthday, and you can renew starting one year before that date.

Renewing Online Through the Texas DPS Website

Online renewal is available at dps.texas.gov under the Driver License section. You will need your current Texas driver license number, your date of birth, and a valid credit or debit card. The process takes about 10 minutes, and you will receive a confirmation number when ready.

After you complete the online renewal, the DPS mails your new license to the address on file. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is not available if your license has been suspended or revoked, if you have had a significant vision change, or if you need to update your address or name.

Renewing by Mail

To renew by mail, request a DL-44 form from the DPS or read it from the website. Fill out the form, sign it, and mail it along with your current driver license and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of proof of residency if you have moved since your last renewal.

Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the DPS receives your materials. This method works if you cannot visit an office in person and do not meet the requirements for online renewal. Keep a copy of your completed form and the tracking number from your mailed package in case you need to follow up.

Renewing in Person at a DPS Office

Visit any Texas DPS Driver License office with your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment. If you are changing your address or name, bring documents that show the change, such as a marriage certificate or a recent utility bill at your new address. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number.

DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, and some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Wait times vary by location and time of day. You can check the office nearest you and see current wait times on the DPS website. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes from check-in to completion, and you receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your permanent license is mailed to you.

What You Need to Bring and What It Costs

For any renewal method, you will need your current Texas driver license. The cost is $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. If you are renewing in person and need to update your address or name, bring proof of the change. Proof of residency can be a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current address.

If you are renewing in person, bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your number, such as a W-2 form or tax return. If you have changed your name since your last license, bring the legal document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Payment methods vary by renewal type: online accepts credit or debit cards, mail accepts checks or money orders, and in-person accepts cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

When Your License Has Been Expired for More Than Two Years

If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it online or by mail. You must visit a DPS office in person and take a new written test and vision test. You will also need to provide proof of residency and your Social Security number. Bring your expired license if you still have it, though it is not required.

The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs. You have three attempts to pass the test. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return on another day. The vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. After you pass both tests, you receive a temporary paper license and your permanent license is mailed within 7 to 10 business days.

Renewing a License That Is Suspended or Revoked

You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license through the normal renewal process. You must first contact the DPS or the court that suspended or revoked your license to find out what steps you need to take to restore it. Suspension reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or driving with an invalid license. Revocation is more serious and usually results from multiple violations or serious offenses.

Once your license is restored, you can renew it using the standard methods. If you are unsure whether your license is suspended or revoked, you can check the status on the DPS website or call the DPS at 1-888-589-6556. Have your driver license number and date of birth ready when you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas driver license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before the expiration date shown on your current license. Most people renew when they receive their renewal notice in the mail, which arrives about 60 days before expiration.

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

Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. The DPS sends your new license to the address on file. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need your license faster, you can renew in person at a DPS office and receive a temporary paper license when ready.

What if I moved and need to update my address?

You cannot update your address online. You must renew in person at a DPS office or by mail. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement dated within the last 90 days. In-person renewal is faster if you need the updated license soon.

Do I need to take a new test when I renew my license?

No, unless your license has been expired for more than two years, suspended, or revoked. If you have a significant vision change or need to update your license class, you may need to take a test. The DPS will let you know during the renewal process if a test is required.

What happens if I renew online but my information has changed?

If you discover after submitting your online renewal that your address, name, or other information is incorrect, contact the DPS when ready at 1-888-589-6556. You may need to visit a DPS office in person to make corrections. Do not ignore the error, as your new license will have the wrong information.