Texas driver's license renewal basics
You can renew your Texas driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The method you choose depends on how much time you have, whether your license is expired, and whether you need to update your photo or address. Most people renew online or by mail without visiting an office.
Your Texas license is valid for six years if you are under 85 years old. You can begin the renewal process up to one year before your expiration date. If your license has already expired, you must renew in person at a DPS office — you cannot use the online or mail options once it lapses.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the Texas DPS website is the fastest option if your license is not expired and you do not need a new photo.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and works if your address and photo are current, but you cannot use it if your license has expired.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office is required if your license is expired, if you need a new photo, or if you want to change your address.
- You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method to renew online or by mail.
- Texas charges a renewal fee that varies based on your license type and how many years you are renewing for — typically between $16 and $48.
Renewing online through the Texas DPS website
Online renewal is the fastest and most straightforward path if your license is still valid. Go to the Texas DPS website and select the online renewal option. You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your information against DPS records.
During online renewal, you cannot change your photo or address — the system renews your license with the information already on file. If you need either of those updated, you must renew in person. The fee is charged to a debit or credit card, and your new license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks.
Online renewal is not available if your license has expired, if you are over 85 years old, or if you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL). You also cannot renew online if your name has changed since your last license was issued.
Renewing by mail
Mail renewal works if your license is not expired and you do not need to update your photo or address. You do not need to visit a DPS office or go online. Instead, you will receive a renewal notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires — this notice contains instructions and a form you can mail back to DPS with your payment.
If you do not receive a renewal notice, you can request one by calling the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 or by visiting a DPS office. Mail the completed form, your current license, and a check or money order to the address listed on the notice. Processing takes two to three weeks after DPS receives your materials.
Like online renewal, the mail option does not allow you to change your photo or address. If either needs updating, or if your license has expired, you must renew in person.
Renewing in person at a DPS office
In-person renewal is required if your license has expired, if you need a new photo, if you want to change your address, or if you hold a CDL. You will also need to renew in person if your name has changed or if you are over 85 years old. Bring your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and a valid payment method.
Visit your local DPS office during business hours. You do not need an appointment for license renewal — you can walk in. Processing times vary by location and how busy the office is; some offices issue your new license the same day, while others may take a few days. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file.
If you have moved recently and your license still shows an old address, bring proof of your new address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your current address.
What documents and information you need
For online or mail renewal, you need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. You will also need a valid debit or credit card to pay the renewal fee online, or a check or money order for mail renewal.
For in-person renewal, bring your current license and proof of residency. If your address has changed, bring a document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail all work. If you are renewing because your license expired, bring the expired license itself.
If your name has changed since your last license was issued (through marriage, divorce, or legal name change), you must renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Renewal fees and payment methods
Texas renewal fees depend on your license type and how many years you are renewing for. A standard six-year renewal typically costs between $16 and $48. The exact amount varies based on whether you are renewing a regular license, a Real ID license, or a commercial license.
For online renewal, you can pay with a debit or credit card. For mail renewal, send a check or money order. For in-person renewal, most DPS offices accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card — call ahead to confirm what your local office accepts.
If you are renewing a Real ID license (which is required for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight), the fee may be slightly higher than a standard license renewal. Real ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner.
What happens after you renew
After you renew online or by mail, your new license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. Your old license remains valid until the expiration date printed on it, so you can continue to use it while you wait. Once your new license arrives, destroy the old one or keep it for your records.
If you renewed in person, ask the DPS office whether your new license will be mailed or issued on the spot. Some offices issue licenses when ready; others mail them. If it is mailed, you will receive it within a few days to two weeks.
If you do not receive your new license within the expected timeframe, contact the DPS at 1-888-589-6556 to check the status. Have your license number and Social Security number ready when you call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license if it has been expired for more than a year?
Yes, but you must renew in person at a DPS office. You cannot use online or mail renewal once your license has expired. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and a valid payment method. The renewal process is the same as for a non-expired license.
Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?
Not unless you choose to or your photo is damaged. If you renew online or by mail, your current photo stays on file. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a DPS office and request a new one.
What is a Real ID license and do I need one?
A Real ID license has a gold star and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. Starting May 2025, a Real ID is required for domestic air travel. If your current license does not have the gold star, you can request one during renewal by bringing proof of citizenship or lawful status along with your other documents.
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?
Texas does not automatically block renewal for unpaid traffic tickets, but some courts may suspend your license for unpaid fines. Check your license status on the Texas DPS website before renewing. If your license is suspended, you will need to resolve the issue before renewal.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
Online and mail renewal typically take two to three weeks from the time DPS processes your request. In-person renewal may issue your license the same day or mail it within a few days, depending on the office. Call your local DPS office to ask about their typical processing time.