St. Louis has two locations where you can explore for or renew your driver's license
The Missouri Department of Revenue operates two driver's license offices in St. Louis city. Both locations issue standard licenses, Real ID-compliant licenses, and handle renewals, replacements, and address changes. You do not need to visit both — either location can process your request.
The main office is downtown, and a second location serves the south side. Both require an appointment, which you can book online through the Missouri Department of Revenue website. Walk-ins are not accepted at either location.
If you live in St. Louis County (the suburbs surrounding the city), you may have additional options at other regional offices. The city offices are your choice if you work downtown or live near either location, but county residents can also visit facilities closer to home.
Key Takeaways
- Both St. Louis city driver's license offices require an appointment booked through the Missouri Department of Revenue website before you arrive.
- You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number at either location.
- The downtown office and south side office have the same hours and process the same types of transactions, so choose based on location and appointment availability.
- If you live in St. Louis County, you may find shorter wait times at a county office rather than driving into the city.
- Real ID licenses take the same appointment time as standard licenses but require additional documents proving citizenship or lawful presence.
Downtown St. Louis driver's license office location and hours
The downtown office is located at 301 West High Street, St. Louis, MO 63102. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (noon). It is closed on Sundays and state holidays.
Parking is available on the street and in nearby lots, though street parking fills quickly during weekday mornings. The office is accessible by public transit via MetroLink and MetroBus. If you are using public transportation, allow extra time for travel.
Appointments typically take 15 to 30 minutes once you are called, but arrival 10 to 15 minutes early is standard practice. Bring all required documents with you — staff will not process your request if documents are missing.
South side St. Louis driver's license office location and hours
The south side office is located at 4901 South Kingshighway Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63109. It operates the same hours as the downtown location: Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (noon). It is also closed Sundays and state holidays.
This location has its own parking lot, which is usually less crowded than street parking downtown. It serves residents and workers on the south side and is often less busy than the downtown office, particularly on weekday afternoons.
The same appointment system applies — you must book online before arriving. Processing time is similar to the downtown location, though actual wait times may be shorter depending on the day and time you choose.
Documents you need to bring to either office
Missouri requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN at any driver's license office. A passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate counts as proof of identity. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days counts as proof of residency.
If you are renewing a license that is still valid, you may be able to renew by mail instead of visiting an office. Check the Missouri Department of Revenue website to see if your situation qualifies for mail renewal — this can save you an appointment slot and time.
For a Real ID license, you will also need to prove citizenship or lawful presence. A passport, certified birth certificate, or naturalization papers work for this purpose. Real ID licenses cost more than standard licenses and take the same appointment time, but they meet federal requirements for air travel and federal building access.
How to book an appointment online
Visit the Missouri Department of Revenue website and navigate to the driver's license appointment system. Select your preferred location (downtown or south side), then choose a date and time from available slots. The system shows you open appointments up to several weeks in advance, though popular times fill quickly.
You will need to provide your name, phone number, email address, and the type of transaction you need (new license, renewal, replacement, address change, or Real ID upgrade). The system will send you a confirmation email with your appointment details.
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your appointment time. Bring all required documents, your confirmation email or appointment number, and be prepared to pay the license fee. Payment methods accepted include cash, debit, and credit cards.
What to expect during your visit
When you arrive, check in at the front desk and provide your appointment confirmation. A staff member will verify your documents, take your photograph, and collect the appropriate fee. The photograph is taken at the office — you do not need to bring one.
If your documents are incomplete or unclear, staff may ask you to return with additional paperwork. This delays your license issuance, so double-check the Missouri Department of Revenue website before your appointment to confirm what counts as acceptable proof.
Your license will be mailed to the address you provide at the office, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.
St. Louis County driver's license offices if you live in the suburbs
If you live in St. Louis County rather than the city, you have additional options. The county operates several satellite offices in areas like Clayton, Florissant, and Kirkwood. These offices handle the same transactions as the city offices and often have shorter wait times because they serve smaller populations.
You can book appointments at county offices through the same Missouri Department of Revenue website. Compare appointment availability across all locations — a county office closer to your home may have open slots when the city offices are booked weeks out.
The documents required are identical regardless of which office you visit. Choose based on location and appointment availability rather than any difference in service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license by mail instead of visiting an office?
You may be able to renew by mail if your current license is valid and you have not had any address changes or violations. Check the Missouri Department of Revenue website to see if you meet the requirements. Mail renewal is faster than booking an appointment and waiting for an office visit.
What if I cannot find an appointment at either St. Louis office?
Check the St. Louis County offices — they often have more available appointments because they serve smaller areas. You can also check back on the Missouri Department of Revenue website frequently, as cancellations open up slots throughout the day and week.
Do I need a Real ID license, or is a standard license enough?
A Real ID is required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings as of May 2025. If you plan to fly or visit federal facilities, you will need Real ID. A standard license works for driving and state ID purposes. Real ID costs more but takes the same appointment time.
What happens if I arrive without all my documents?
Staff will not process your request if required documents are missing. You will need to reschedule your appointment and return with complete paperwork. Check the Missouri Department of Revenue website before your appointment to avoid this delay.
How long does it take to receive my license after my office visit?
Your plastic license card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid while you wait. If you need your license sooner, contact the Missouri Department of Revenue to ask about expedited options.