How to renew your Washington driver's license online, by mail, or in person
Washington lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Department of Licensing office. Which method you can use depends on whether your license is still valid, how long until it expires, and whether you need to update your photo or address. Most people renew online in minutes; others must visit an office. The process costs $72 for an eight-year renewal (or $36 for a four-year renewal if you choose that option).
You can renew up to one year before your license expires. If your license has already expired, you cannot renew it—you must reapply as a new driver, which requires an in-person visit, a knowledge test, and a driving test. Renewing before expiration keeps you legal to drive and avoids that longer process.
Key Takeaways
- Washington allows online renewal if your license is valid, you have not changed your address, and you do not need a new photo, and you can do it up to one year before expiration.
- Mail renewal takes about two weeks and works for valid licenses, but you cannot change your address or photo by mail.
- In-person renewal at a Department of Licensing office is required if your license has expired, you need a new photo, or you are changing your address.
- The renewal fee is $72 for eight years or $36 for four years, and you must pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check.
- Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after approval, and you can drive on your old license until the new one arrives.
Online renewal: fastest option if your information has not changed
Online renewal through the Washington Department of Licensing website takes about 10 minutes and is available if your current license is valid, your address has not changed, and you do not need a new photo. You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a credit or debit card to pay the $72 or $36 renewal fee.
Go to dol.wa.gov, select "Renew Your Driver's License," and follow the prompts. The system will confirm your identity by asking questions about your driving record and personal history. Once approved, your new license is mailed to the address on file. You can drive on your current license while you wait—it remains valid until the new one arrives, which usually takes 7 to 10 business days.
If the online system cannot verify your identity or if you have a suspended or revoked license, you will be directed to renew in person instead. The same applies if you have an outstanding ticket or court order tied to your license.
Mail renewal: slower but works without a visit
You can renew by mail if your license is valid and you do not need to change your photo or address. Request a renewal form from the Department of Licensing by calling 360-902-3900 or visiting a local office. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for $72 (or $36 for four years), and mail it to the address on the form.
Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks from the time the Department receives your form. Your new license will be mailed to the address on your current license. You cannot update your address or request a new photo through the mail process, so if either of those applies to you, you must renew in person.
In-person renewal: required if your license has expired or you need a new photo
You must visit a Department of Licensing office to renew if your license has expired, you want a new photo, or you are changing your address. Bring your current driver's license (or passport if your license is expired), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Walk-in appointments are available at most offices, but wait times vary. You can also schedule an appointment online at dol.wa.gov to avoid waiting. The renewal takes about 15 to 20 minutes. You will have your photo taken and pay the $72 or $36 fee by card or electronic check. Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew—you must reapply as a new driver, which includes a written knowledge test and a driving test. This process takes longer and costs more than renewal.
What happens if your license has already expired
Once your license expires, you cannot renew it. Instead, you must reapply as a new driver through an in-person appointment at a Department of Licensing office. You will need to pass a knowledge test (covering road signs and traffic laws) and a driving test. The reapplication fee is higher than renewal and varies depending on the type of license you are seeking.
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Washington, even if you have held a valid license before. If you are stopped by police, you can be cited. The best approach is to renew before your expiration date—you can start the process up to one year in advance.
Real ID compliance and your Washington driver's license
Washington driver's licenses issued after January 2018 are Real ID compliant, meaning they meet federal security standards and can be used for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. If your current license shows a gold star or "REAL ID" marking in the upper right corner, it is compliant. If it does not, you can request a Real ID-compliant license during renewal.
To get a Real ID license, you must renew in person and bring proof of citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers) along with your other documents. The fee is the same as a standard renewal. If you do not need Real ID for travel or federal building access, you can keep a standard license.
Fees, payment methods, and what to expect after you renew
Washington charges $72 for an eight-year driver's license renewal or $36 for a four-year renewal. You choose the length when you renew. Payment is by credit card, debit card, or electronic check—cash and checks are not accepted online or by mail. If you renew in person, you can also pay by electronic check at the office.
After you renew, your new license is mailed to the address on file. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can continue to drive legally. If your new license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the Department of Licensing at 360-902-3900 to check the status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Washington license if I live out of state?
Yes. You can renew online or by mail as long as your license is still valid and you do not need to change your photo or address. If you need a new photo or have an expired license, you must visit a Department of Licensing office in Washington in person.
What if I changed my name since my last license?
You must renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document showing your name change—marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The office will issue a new license with your updated name at no extra cost beyond the standard renewal fee.
How long can I drive on an expired license while waiting for my new one?
You cannot drive on an expired license. However, if you renew before your license expires, your old license stays valid until your new one arrives by mail. Once your license expires, driving is illegal, even if you have already submitted a renewal.
Do I need an appointment to renew in person?
Walk-ins are accepted at most Department of Licensing offices, but scheduling an appointment online at dol.wa.gov reduces wait time. During busy periods, appointments fill up quickly, so booking ahead is recommended.
What if the online renewal system rejects my identity verification?
If the system cannot verify you, you will be directed to renew in person at a Department of Licensing office. Bring your driver's license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of address. The office staff can complete your renewal on the spot.