How to Renew Your Texas Driver's License

Where to renew and what you need before you start

You can renew your Texas driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements — your license must not be expired by more than two years, you must have a valid mailing address on file, and you cannot have certain medical conditions or restrictions that require an in-person visit. If you do not meet those conditions, you will need to go to a DPS office or mail in your renewal.

Before you start, gather your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last three months), and proof of Social Security number if your license does not show it. If your address has changed, bring documentation of your new address. You will also need to pay the renewal fee, which is $25 for a five-year license or $50 for an eight-year license if you are 85 or older.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Texas DPS website takes about 10 minutes and costs $25 for a five-year license, but only works if your license expired within the last two years.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send your current license, a completed form, and payment to the DPS address listed on their website.
In-person renewal at a DPS office usually takes 30 minutes to an hour and is required if your license is expired by more than two years or if you have medical restrictions.
You can check your renewal may be able to access and start the process on the Texas DPS website without leaving home.

Renewing online through the Texas DPS website

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the driver's license renewal option. You will enter your license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will confirm your current information and ask you to review and update your address if needed. You can change your mailing address, but not your address of residence — if you have moved to a new state, you cannot renew online.

After you confirm your information, you will pay the $25 renewal fee with a debit or credit card. The system will tell you when ready whether your renewal was accepted. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.

Online renewal does not work if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you have a medical condition that requires a DPS review, if you need to change your name, or if your license was suspended or revoked. In those cases, you must renew in person or by mail.

Renewing by mail

read the DL-44 form from the Texas DPS website or pick one up at any DPS office. Fill in your current information and sign the form. Include your current license, a copy of your proof of residency, and a check or money order for $25 (payable to the Texas Department of Public Safety). Do not send cash.

Mail everything to the address shown on the DPS website — the address changes depending on your county, so check before you send. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the time the DPS receives your packet. You can continue to drive on your current license while you wait. If you do not hear back within four weeks, contact the DPS to confirm they received your renewal.

Renewing in person at a DPS office

Find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website and check their hours — many offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but some have different schedules. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

Walk-ins are accepted at most offices, but wait times vary. Some offices use an online appointment system where you can reserve a time slot in advance, which usually cuts your wait to 15 to 30 minutes. Check the DPS website to see if your local office offers appointments. The renewal process itself takes about 10 to 15 minutes once you reach the counter. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your permanent license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

What happens if your license is expired by more than two years

If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew online or by mail — you must go to a DPS office in person. You will need to bring the same documents as a standard renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. The process is the same as a regular in-person renewal, but the DPS may require you to pass a vision test or retake the written exam if your license has been expired for a very long time.

Some DPS offices prioritize expired renewals, so your wait time may be longer than for a standard renewal. Call ahead to ask whether your local office has a separate line or appointment slot for expired licenses.

Renewing if you have changed your name

If you have changed your name since your license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — you cannot renew online. You must renew in person at a DPS office and bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number as well.

The DPS will update your name on your new license at no extra cost. The process takes the same amount of time as a standard in-person renewal.

Renewing if your license was suspended or revoked

If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the Texas DPS or the court that issued the suspension to find out what you need to do to restore your driving privileges. This might include paying a fine, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a suspension period. Once your privileges are restored, you can renew your license through any of the three methods.

If you are not sure whether your license is suspended, check the Texas DPS website or call your local DPS office. They can tell you the status of your license and what steps you need to take.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it has been expired for six months?

Yes. If your license expired within the last two years, you can renew online, by mail, or in person. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a DPS office.

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

If you renew online or by mail, your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you renew in person, you get a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Can I change my address when I renew online?

You can change your mailing address online, but not your address of residence. If you have moved to a new state or need to update your residence address, you must renew in person or by mail.

What if I lose my license before my renewal arrives?

Contact your local DPS office to report it lost and request a replacement. You will need to pay a replacement fee and bring proof of identity and residency. Your renewal will still arrive on schedule.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person?

Walk-ins are accepted at most DPS offices, but some offices offer online appointment scheduling that can reduce your wait time. Check the DPS website for your local office to see if appointments are available.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.