What to bring when you renew in Missouri

To renew your Missouri driver's license, you need to bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Missouri residency. The Missouri Department of Revenue accepts a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days as proof of residency. You do not need a new photo unless your current license photo is damaged or you request one.

If you are renewing by mail, you will also need to include a completed Form DL 43 (the renewal process) and a check or money order for the renewal fee. Mail renewals are available only if your license is not expired and you meet other requirements — the Department of Revenue website lists the full conditions. If your name has changed since your last license, you must renew in person at a license office instead of by mail.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring your current Missouri driver's license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of residency dated within 60 days.
  • Renewing in person at a license office takes about 30 minutes and costs $11.50 for a four-year license or $23 for an eight-year license.
  • Mail renewal is faster and cheaper ($6.50 for four years or $13 for eight years) but only works if your license is not expired and you have not changed your name.
  • If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that changed it — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
  • You can renew up to one year before your license expires, so you do not have to wait until the expiration date.

Renewing in person at a license office

Walk into any Missouri license office with your documents and complete a Form DL 43 at the counter. Bring your current license, proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of residency. The staff will take a new photo unless you decline, verify your information, and process your renewal on the spot.

The in-person renewal fee is $11.50 for a four-year license or $23 for an eight-year license, paid by cash, check, or card. You will receive your new license when ready or within a few days if the office needs to mail it. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours; some offer Saturday hours. Check the Department of Revenue website to find the office nearest you and confirm its hours before you go.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal costs less and takes about two weeks, but you can only use it if your license is not expired, you have not changed your name, and you do not need a new photo. read Form DL 43 from the Missouri Department of Revenue website, fill it out completely, and mail it with your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency to the address listed on the form.

Include a check or money order for $6.50 (four-year license) or $13 (eight-year license). Do not send cash. The Department of Revenue will process your renewal and mail your new license back to you. If anything is missing or incorrect, they will return your process and you will have to start over, so double-check every field before you mail it. Allow two to three weeks for processing and delivery.

What to do if your name has changed

If you have married, divorced, or legally changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that changed it — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You cannot renew by mail if your name has changed; you must go to a license office in person so staff can verify the name change document.

Bring the certified copy along with your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. The staff will update your name in the system and issue a new license with your current name. If your certified copy is from a state other than Missouri, bring the original or a certified copy certified by the issuing state — photocopies are not accepted.

Renewing an expired license

If your license has been expired for less than five years, you can renew it using the same process as a current license — in person or by mail. You will need all the same documents: your expired license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency.

If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it. You must explore for a new license instead, which requires a vision test, a written test, and a driving test. Contact your local license office for the requirements and fees for a new license process.

Timing and when to renew

Your Missouri driver's license expires on your birthday. You can renew it up to one year before the expiration date, so you do not have to wait until your birthday arrives. Renewing early means you will have your new license before your current one expires and will not risk driving on an expired license.

If you renew in person, you usually receive your license the same day or within a few days. If you renew by mail, allow two to three weeks for processing and delivery. Plan ahead if your license expires during a holiday or if you know you will be traveling, since mail renewal takes longer than in-person renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have an out-of-state address?

No. To renew a Missouri license, you must be a Missouri resident. If you have moved out of state, you need to get a license from your new state. If you are temporarily out of state but still a Missouri resident, you can renew by mail if you meet the other requirements.

What counts as proof of Social Security number?

The Missouri Department of Revenue accepts your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. The document must show your full Social Security number. A birth certificate does not count as proof of Social Security number.

Do I need a new photo when I renew?

No, unless your current photo is damaged or you request one. If you want a new photo, tell the staff when you renew in person. Mail renewal does not include a new photo.

What if I lost my current license?

You cannot renew a lost license. You must explore for a replacement license, which costs $11.50 for four years or $23 for eight years. Bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency to a license office in person.

How long does my new license last?

Missouri driver's licenses are valid for four or eight years, depending on which you choose when you renew. The fee is lower for the four-year license. Both expire on your birthday.