You can renew your California license starting 60 days before it expires
You can walk into a Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office or renew online starting 60 days before your expiration date. California does not let you renew earlier than that window, and waiting until after your license expires makes the process longer and more expensive. The exact renewal date depends on your birth month — the state ties license expiration to your birthday.
If your license has already expired, you can still renew it, but you may face a late fee and will need to pass a vision test in person at a DMV office. Renewing before expiration is simpler and cheaper.
Key Takeaways
- You can renew your California license starting 60 days before the expiration date printed on your card.
- Online renewal through the DMV website is available for most drivers and takes about two weeks to receive your new license by mail.
- If you renew in person at a DMV office, you walk out with a temporary license the same day and receive your permanent card within two weeks.
- Renewing after your license expires costs more and requires a vision test at a DMV office, even if you renewed online.
- Your California license expires on your birthday, so check your card now to know your renewal window.
How to find your renewal date
Your expiration date is printed on the front of your California driver's license, below your photograph. It shows the month and year — for example, 06/2027. You can renew starting 60 days before that date.
If you are not sure when 60 days before your expiration is, count backward two months from your expiration date. That is your earliest renewal date. You have until your expiration date to renew without penalty.
Renewing online through the DMV website
Online renewal is the fastest route if you are renewing a standard driver's license (not a commercial license) and your license is not expired. Go to the California DMV website, select "Renew Your Driver License or ID Card," and follow the steps. You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a payment method.
The DMV will mail your new license to the address on file. This usually takes about two weeks. You do not receive a temporary license when you renew online, so if you need to drive before the new card arrives, you can print a temporary license receipt from the DMV website after you complete your renewal.
Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal. The fee varies depending on how many years you are renewing for — typically $40 to $60 for a four-year or eight-year renewal. Check the DMV website for the current fee before you start.
Renewing in person at a DMV office
You can walk into any DMV office during the 60-day window before your expiration date. Bring your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment. You will take a vision test and have your photograph taken. The DMV will issue you a temporary license on the spot that is valid for 60 days while your permanent license is mailed to you.
In-person renewal costs more than online renewal — typically $60 to $80 depending on the length of your renewal. Wait times at DMV offices vary widely by location and time of day. You can check the DMV website to see current wait times at offices near you before you go.
What happens if your license has already expired
If you miss your expiration date, you can still renew, but the process is different. You cannot renew online once your license is expired. You must go to a DMV office in person, bring your expired license, and pass a vision test. You will also pay a late renewal fee on top of the standard renewal fee.
The DMV will issue you a temporary license that day and mail your permanent license within two weeks. Driving with an expired license is illegal in California, so renew as soon as you realize your license has expired.
Renewing a commercial driver's license in California
If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), you cannot renew online. You must renew in person at a DMV office starting 60 days before your expiration date. Bring your current CDL, proof of residency, and payment. You will take a vision test and may need to pass a written test depending on your endorsements and the length of time since your last renewal.
Commercial license renewal costs more than standard license renewal. The fee depends on the type of CDL and how long you are renewing for. Check the DMV website for current CDL renewal fees before you visit an office.
What to bring when you renew
| Renewal Method | What You Need |
|---|---|
| Online renewal | Current license number, Social Security number, payment method (credit or debit card) |
| In-person renewal (standard license) | Current license, proof of residency, payment |
| In-person renewal (commercial license) | Current CDL, proof of residency, payment, possibly medical certificate |
Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you have moved recently and your license still shows your old address, bring a second document showing your new address.
If you are renewing in person, arrive during off-peak hours if possible — early morning or late afternoon visits typically have shorter wait times than midday. Bring all documents in one place so you do not have to search for them at the counter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license more than 60 days early?
No. California law does not allow renewal more than 60 days before your expiration date. If you try to renew earlier, the DMV will reject your process. If your license is expiring soon and you need it renewed, wait until you are within the 60-day window.
What if I am deployed or living outside California when my license expires?
If you are on active military duty outside California, you can renew by mail. Contact the DMV directly to request a mail renewal form. If you are living outside the state temporarily, online renewal is your best option — you can renew from anywhere as long as you are within the 60-day window and your license is not expired.
Do I need a new photograph when I renew?
If you renew online, the DMV uses your existing photograph from your current license. If you renew in person at a DMV office, you will have a new photograph taken. You cannot request to keep your old photograph when renewing in person.
How long is my new license valid for?
California driver's licenses are valid for four or eight years, depending on your age and the type of license. When you renew, you can choose the length of renewal at the time you explore. The DMV website shows the cost for each option so you can decide before you start your renewal.
What if my address has changed since I got my current license?
When you renew online, you can update your address as part of the renewal process. If you renew in person, bring proof of your new address along with your current license and other required documents. The DMV will print your new address on your renewed license.