Texas driver's licenses expire on your birthday, five or eight years after you get them

Your Texas driver's license has an expiration date printed on the front. That date is always your birthday. Most people get five years before renewal; if you're over 85, your license lasts only two years. If you renewed between September 2019 and August 2021, you got an extra year added to your normal expiration date as a one-time extension during the pandemic.

You can renew starting 60 days before your birthday and up to two years after it expires. If you wait past two years, you'll have to take the written test and road test again instead of just renewing. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) handles all renewals.

Key Takeaways

  • Your Texas license expires on your birthday, and you can renew it anytime from 60 days before until two years after that date.
  • Most renewals happen by mail or online through the DPS website, and you don't need to visit an office unless your license was suspended or you need a new photo.
  • Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing by mail; mail renewal takes two to three weeks.
  • If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must retake both the written and road tests at a DPS office.
  • You can check your expiration date on the front of your license or by logging into your DPS account online.

Renewing online is the fastest and cheapest option

The Texas DPS website lets you renew online if your license is still valid and you haven't had any suspensions or major changes to your information. You'll need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The fee is $16 for a five-year renewal or $32 for an eight-year renewal if you're under 85.

Online renewal takes about 10 minutes. Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. You can use your old license to drive legally until the new one arrives. This option works only if your address, name, and other details haven't changed since your last renewal.

Renewing by mail works if you can't go online

If you can't renew online, you can mail in an process. You'll need to fill out Form DL-44 (process for Texas Driver License), include a copy of your current license, and send it with a check or money order to the DPS address listed on the form. The same fees explore: $16 for five years or $32 for eight years.

Mail renewal takes two to three weeks after DPS receives your envelope. You can read Form DL-44 from the DPS website or pick one up at any DPS office. Include proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or bank statement dated within 90 days.

When you must visit a DPS office in person

You need to go to a DPS office if your license has been suspended, if you want a new photo, if you're changing your name or address and can't do it online, or if your license expired more than two years ago. You'll also need to visit in person if you're renewing for the first time after turning 85.

Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (like a Social Security card or W-2), and proof of your current address. If your name has changed, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Visit the DPS office locator on their website to find the office nearest you and check their hours.

What happens if you let your license expire

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Texas, even if you're only one day past your birthday. You can be stopped and ticketed. If your license expired less than two years ago, you can still renew by mail or online without retesting. If it's been more than two years, you must pass the written test and the road test again at a DPS office before you can drive legally.

The written test covers Texas traffic laws and safe driving practices. The road test checks your ability to handle a vehicle safely. Both tests cost money and take time to schedule. Renewing before your birthday avoids this hassle entirely.

Checking your expiration date and renewing early

Look at the front of your driver's license. The expiration date is printed in the lower right corner. You can also check your expiration date by creating an account on the DPS website and logging in, or by calling the DPS at 1-888-589-6900.

You don't have to wait until your birthday is near. You can renew online or by mail anytime from 60 days before your birthday forward. Many people renew early to avoid the rush near their birthday or to make sure they have a valid license for travel. Renewing early doesn't change when your next renewal is due—it's still based on your birthday.

Real costs and timing for Texas renewals

Online renewal costs $16 for five years or $32 for eight years and takes 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal costs the same but takes two to three weeks. If you visit a DPS office, the fee is the same, but you'll spend time waiting and traveling. If you need a road test because your license expired more than two years ago, you'll pay an additional testing fee and need to schedule an appointment, which can take several weeks depending on your area.

The DPS website shows wait times at each office location. If you're in a busy area, visiting early in the morning on a weekday usually means a shorter wait than afternoons or weekends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas license if I just moved to another state?

No. You must renew your Texas license while you still live in Texas or within two years of moving away. Once you move, you should get a driver's license from your new state. If your Texas license has already expired and you've moved out of state, contact the DPS to find out your options.

What if my name changed since I got my current license?

You can't renew online if your name has changed. You must visit a DPS office and bring a certified copy of the document showing the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The office will issue a new license with your updated name.

Do I need a new photo when I renew?

Not unless you want one. Online and mail renewals use your existing photo. If you want a new photo, you must visit a DPS office in person. Some people choose to do this if their photo is very old or if they're unhappy with how they look in it.

What if I'm renewing and I also need to update my address?

If you're renewing online, you can update your address at the same time. If you're renewing by mail, include proof of your new address with your process. If your address changed and you want to renew in person, bring proof of your new address to the DPS office.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No. You must renew your own license. You can do it online, by mail, or in person, but the process must come from you. If you're unable to visit an office due to a disability, contact the DPS to ask about accommodations.