Texas driver's licenses expire on your birthday, five or eight years after issue depending on your age

Your Texas driver's license has an expiration date printed on the front. That date is always your birthday. If you were under 18 when you got your license, it expires on your 18th birthday. If you were 18 or older, your license lasts either five years or eight years depending on whether you chose the standard or enhanced version — both expire on your birthday in the fifth or eighth year after you received it.

You can check your exact expiration date by looking at the front of your card. It appears in the bottom right corner under "EXP" (expiration). Texas does not send renewal reminders by mail or email, so the responsibility to track this date is yours.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Texas license expires on your birthday, either five or eight years after you received it depending on the type you chose.
  • You can renew online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website if you meet certain conditions, including being under 85 and not having changed your address.
  • In-person renewal at a DPS office takes about 20 to 45 minutes and is required if your license is already expired, you changed your address, or you want to update your photo.
  • Texas allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires, so you can plan ahead without waiting until the last moment.
  • Driving with an expired license is illegal in Texas, even if your renewal is in progress.

How long your license lasts based on when you got it

The length of your license depends on your age at the time of issue. If you received your first Texas license before turning 18, that license expires on your 18th birthday — a shorter window because Texas requires you to renew in person once you become an adult. After that renewal, your new license will last either five or eight years.

When you renew at age 18 or older, you choose between a standard five-year license and an enhanced eight-year license. The enhanced license costs more but lasts longer and can be used for certain federal purposes like entering military bases. Most people choose the standard five-year option. Whichever you pick, the expiration date will be your birthday in year five or year eight.

When you can start the renewal process

Texas allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires. This means if your birthday is in March 2025, you can begin renewing in March 2024. Starting early gives you time to handle the process without rushing and without the risk of accidentally driving on an expired license.

Many people wait until close to their expiration date, but this creates unnecessary risk. If you miss your birthday or encounter delays in processing, you could end up driving illegally. Renewing a few months early removes that pressure.

Renewing online through the Texas DPS website

The Texas Department of Public Safety offers online renewal for many people. You can renew online if all of the following are true: your license is not already expired, you are under 85 years old, your address has not changed since your last renewal, you have no medical conditions that affect your driving, and you do not need to update your photo. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs less than in-person renewal.

To renew online, go to the Texas DPS website, select "Renew Your Driver License," and follow the steps. You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives.

Renewing in person at a DPS office

You must renew in person if your license is already expired, your address has changed, you want to update your photo, you are 85 or older, or you do not meet the other conditions for online renewal. In-person renewal typically takes 20 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the office is.

Bring your current driver's license, proof of Texas residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form). If you changed your address, bring two documents showing your new address. You can find your nearest DPS office and check wait times on the Texas DPS website. Many offices allow you to make an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time significantly.

What happens if your license expires

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Texas, even if you have applied for renewal and are waiting for your new license to arrive. If you are stopped by police, you can be cited. The safest approach is to renew before your birthday passes.

If your license has already expired and you have not yet renewed, you cannot legally drive. You must complete the renewal process — either online or in person — before getting behind the wheel. If you are unable to renew before your birthday, do not drive until your new license is in hand.

Costs and payment methods

Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal. As of 2024, online renewal for a five-year standard license costs around $25 to $30, while in-person renewal costs more. The exact amount varies slightly depending on whether you choose a standard or enhanced license and whether you are renewing or replacing a lost or damaged license. The Texas DPS website lists current fees.

Both online and in-person renewal accept credit cards, debit cards, and electronic check payment. Some DPS offices also accept cash or check for in-person transactions, but calling ahead to confirm is wise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive if my license expires on my birthday?

No. Your license is invalid starting at midnight on your expiration date. If your birthday is March 15, your license expires at the end of March 14. You cannot legally drive on March 15 unless you have already renewed. Plan to renew a few weeks before your birthday to avoid this situation.

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

The Texas DPS mails new licenses within 7 to 10 business days of approval. Delivery by mail typically takes another 3 to 5 business days, so expect your new license to arrive 10 to 15 days after you complete the online process. You can drive on your old license until the new one arrives.

What if I lost my license and need to renew at the same time?

You must renew in person at a DPS office. Bring your proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. You cannot renew online if your license is lost or damaged. The office will issue a replacement license with a new expiration date on your next birthday.

Do I need an appointment to renew at a DPS office?

Appointments are not required, but many DPS offices allow you to book one online, which can significantly reduce your wait time. Check the Texas DPS website for your nearest office and whether appointments are available. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait longer during busy hours.

Can I renew my license if I am out of state?

You can renew online if you meet all the other conditions, even if you are temporarily out of state. Your new license will be mailed to your Texas address on file. If you need to renew in person and are out of state, you will need to return to Texas to visit a DPS office.