Renewing Your Texas License Online, by Mail, or In Person
You can renew your Texas driver's license through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) in three ways: online at the DPS website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. Which method you use depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have, and whether you need a new photo. Most people renew online because it takes about 10 minutes and you can do it from home.
Your license is may be able to access for online renewal if it has not expired more than two years ago, you have no medical suspensions, and you have not had a name change since your last license was issued. If any of those do not explore to you, you will need to renew in person at a DPS office.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the DPS website works if your license expired within the last two years and you have no medical holds or name changes.
- You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card) to renew online.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send your current license and a completed form to the DPS address listed on the DPS website.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office takes about 30 minutes and is required if your license expired more than two years ago or you need a new photo.
- Texas licenses are valid for eight years for drivers under 85 and five years for drivers 85 and older.
Online Renewal Through the DPS Website
To renew online, go to the Texas DPS website and select the driver's license renewal option. You will enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your record and confirm your current address. If your address has changed, you can update it during this step.
After you confirm your information, you will pay the renewal fee with a debit or credit card. The fee for a standard eight-year renewal is $33. Once payment goes through, your renewal is complete. You will receive a confirmation number by email, and your new license will arrive by mail in about 7 to 10 business days.
Online renewal does not give you a new photo — your current photo stays on file. If you want a new photo on your license, you must renew in person.
Mail Renewal and What to Send
To renew by mail, you will need to read and print the renewal form from the DPS website or request one by calling the DPS at 1-888-589-6789. Fill out the form completely, including your current address and any name changes. Sign and date the form.
Mail your completed form along with your current driver's license to the address shown on the DPS website. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee (currently $33 for an eight-year license). Do not send cash. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time DPS receives your materials, so send it well before your license expires if you plan to drive.
Like online renewal, mail renewal keeps your current photo. You will not receive a new license photo unless you renew in person.
In-Person Renewal at a DPS Office
Visit any DPS office to renew in person. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days), and your Social Security number. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
The DPS office will take a new photo, verify your information, and process your renewal on the spot. The visit usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is. You will pay the renewal fee at the office and receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your permanent license is mailed to you. Your new license arrives in about 7 to 10 business days.
You do not need an appointment at most DPS offices, but some locations allow you to schedule one online to reduce wait time. Check the DPS website for your local office and whether appointments are available.
When You Must Renew In Person
You cannot renew online or by mail if your license expired more than two years ago. You also must come in person if you have a medical suspension on your record, if your name has changed since your last license was issued, or if you want a new photo. Additionally, if you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), you must renew in person and pass a medical examination.
If you are not sure whether you are may be able to access for online or mail renewal, call the DPS at 1-888-589-6789 and provide your driver's license number. They can tell you which renewal methods are open to you.
License Validity and Renewal Timing
A Texas driver's license is valid for eight years if you are under 85 years old. If you are 85 or older, your license is valid for five years. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, so you do not have to wait until the last minute.
Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license. If you are unsure when your license expires, you can check the DPS website by entering your license number and date of birth. Renewing early means you will have your new license before the old one runs out and you will not risk driving on an expired license.
Renewal Fees and Payment
The standard renewal fee for an eight-year Texas driver's license is $33. If you are 85 or older and renewing for five years, the fee is $20.50. Online and mail renewal accept debit or credit cards (online) or checks and money orders (mail). In-person renewal accepts cash, debit, credit cards, and checks.
Some DPS offices may charge an additional fee if you request a duplicate license or need a replacement due to damage or loss. Ask at your local office or check the DPS website for any extra charges that might explore to your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license if I moved out of state?
No. You must be a Texas resident to hold a Texas driver's license. If you have moved to another state, you will need to get a license from that state. If you still live in Texas but your mailing address is temporarily out of state, you can renew online or by mail using your Texas address.
What happens if my license expires while I am waiting for my renewal?
If you renew in person, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days, so you can drive legally while your permanent license is mailed. If you renew online or by mail before your license expires, you can drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If your license has already expired, you must renew in person.
Do I need to take a new written test or road test to renew?
No. Renewal is not the same as getting a new license. You do not take any tests to renew. You only need to pass a written test and road test if you are getting your first Texas license or if your license has been suspended or revoked.
How do I renew if I lost my driver's license?
You cannot renew online or by mail without your current license number. Go to a DPS office in person and bring your Social Security number and proof of residency. The DPS will issue you a replacement license with a new number, which counts as a renewal if your old license had not yet expired.
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?
Yes. An unpaid traffic ticket does not stop you from renewing your license. However, if you have a suspension on your driving record due to unpaid tickets or other violations, you cannot renew online or by mail — you must go in person and resolve the suspension first.