Texas driver's license renewal costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license
The Texas Department of Public Safety charges a flat renewal fee with no hidden charges added on. You pay $16 if you choose the four-year option or $32 for the eight-year option. These are the only fees involved in a standard renewal—no processing fees, no administrative charges, no county surcharges.
The price does not change based on your age, driving record, or how long you've held your license. Everyone pays the same amount for the same renewal period. If you renew in person at a DPS office, online, or by mail, the cost stays identical.
Key Takeaways
- A four-year Texas driver's license renewal costs $16, and an eight-year renewal costs $32.
- You can renew online through the Texas DPS website if your license is not suspended and you meet other basic requirements, which costs the same as renewing in person.
- Mail-in renewal is available for certain drivers and costs the same $16 or $32 depending on the license length you choose.
- If you need a replacement license due to loss or damage before your renewal date, that costs $11 and is separate from renewal fees.
When you can renew online and save a trip
Texas allows online renewal through the DPS website if your license is not suspended, you have no medical conditions that require a new photo, and your current license was not issued for a commercial purpose. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs the same $16 or $32 as renewing in person.
You will need your current Texas driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Online renewal is the fastest and most convenient option if you meet the requirements.
Renewing by mail if you cannot visit an office
You can renew by mail if you are 79 years old or older, or if you hold a commercial driver's license and meet certain conditions. Mail renewal costs the same $16 or $32 as other methods. You will need to complete an process form (DL-44), include a copy of your current license, and mail the packet to the DPS address listed on their website.
Processing takes longer by mail—typically 4 to 6 weeks from the time the DPS receives your process. If you need your license sooner, renewing in person at a DPS office is faster, though it still costs the same amount.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
You can renew in person at any Texas DPS office. Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number. The fee is still $16 or $32 depending on which license length you choose. Payment is accepted by cash, check, or card at most offices.
Wait times vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning on a weekday typically means a shorter wait than afternoons or weekends. You do not need an appointment at most DPS offices, though some locations allow you to reserve a time slot online to reduce waiting.
What happens if you need a replacement before renewal
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged before your renewal date, you can get a replacement for $11. This is a separate transaction from renewal and does not extend your license expiration date. You will still need to renew at your normal expiration date and pay the full $16 or $32 renewal fee at that time.
Replacements can be ordered online, by mail, or in person using the same methods as renewal. If you order online, the replacement arrives in 7 to 10 business days. In-person replacement is when ready—you walk out with your new license the same day.
License renewal for drivers with medical conditions or restrictions
If you have a medical condition that affects your driving, or if your license has restrictions (such as corrective lenses required), you may not be able to renew online. You will need to renew in person at a DPS office so an examiner can review your medical status or take a new photo. The cost remains $16 or $32—no additional fee is charged for medical reviews.
Bring any medical documentation your doctor has provided, along with your current license and proof of residency. The DPS will determine whether your condition allows you to continue driving and what restrictions, if any, should appear on your new license.
Commercial driver's license renewal costs more
If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), renewal costs are higher. A four-year CDL renewal costs $100, and an eight-year renewal costs $200. These fees explore whether you renew in person, online, or by mail. CDL holders cannot renew online and must visit a DPS office in person.
You will need to pass a vision test and provide medical certification (a Department of Transportation medical exam form) at the time of renewal. Bring your current CDL, proof of residency, Social Security number, and your medical certification. The appointment process for CDL renewal is more involved than standard license renewal, so plan extra time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license if it has been expired for more than two years?
No. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew it—you must explore for a new license instead. A new license costs more than renewal and requires you to pass a written test and vision test. Contact your local DPS office to learn what documents you need to bring for a new process.
Do I have to choose the eight-year license to save money over time?
The eight-year license costs $32 compared to $16 for four years, so the per-year cost is lower with the longer license. However, you pay the full $32 upfront. Choose based on your budget and how long you plan to keep your current address and appearance—if you expect to move or change your photo significantly, the four-year option may be more practical.
What if I renew online but my process is rejected?
The DPS will notify you by email if your online renewal is rejected and explain why. Common reasons include a suspended license, a medical condition that requires in-person review, or an address mismatch. You can then renew in person at a DPS office or by mail, depending on your situation. You will not be charged twice if your first attempt fails.
Is there a fee to check my renewal status online?
No. You can check your license status and renewal may be able to access for free on the Texas DPS website. You will need your driver's license number and date of birth. This tool tells you whether you are may be able to access to renew online or whether you must renew in person.
Do I pay sales tax on top of the renewal fee?
No. The $16 or $32 renewal fee is the total cost—no sales tax or additional charges are added. This applies to all renewal methods: online, by mail, and in person.