Documents and information you'll bring to the DMV

To renew your Missouri driver's license, bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. If your current license is still valid or expired less than one year ago, you can renew by mail or online without visiting a DMV office. If it expired more than a year ago, you must renew in person.

For proof of residency, Missouri accepts a utility bill, bank statement, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail showing your current address. The document must be dated within 60 days of your visit. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, tax return, or a document from a government agency that shows your number.

If your name has changed since your last license was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change. If you're renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), you'll need additional medical certification and may have to take a written test depending on your endorsements.

Key Takeaways

  • You need your current license, proof of residency (utility bill or bank statement from the last 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number to renew.
  • If your license expired less than a year ago, you can renew by mail or online without visiting a DMV office.
  • If your license expired more than a year ago, you must renew in person at a Missouri DMV office.
  • Bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order if your name has changed since your last license was issued.
  • The renewal fee is $11.50 for a standard four-year license or $24 for an eight-year license.

Renewing by mail or online

Missouri allows you to renew by mail if your license is still valid or expired less than one year ago, and you have no medical restrictions or license suspensions. To renew by mail, request a renewal process from the Missouri Department of Revenue website or call 573-526-2407. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail it with your proof of residency and proof of Social Security number to the address on the process.

Online renewal is available through the Missouri Department of Revenue website if you meet the same conditions as mail renewal. You'll need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You can pay the renewal fee with a debit or credit card. Online renewal typically takes five to seven business days to process.

Renewing in person at a DMV office

If your license expired more than a year ago, you must visit a Missouri DMV office in person. Bring your current license (even if expired), proof of residency, proof of your Social Security number, and payment for the renewal fee. You'll also have your photo taken and may be asked to read a vision test chart. The DMV office will issue your new license on the spot or mail it to you within 5 to 10 business days.

Find your nearest DMV office on the Missouri Department of Revenue website. Most offices operate Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours vary by location. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require you to schedule an appointment online. Check your local office's website before you go to see if an appointment is needed.

Renewal fees and license validity

A standard four-year Missouri driver's license costs $11.50 to renew. An eight-year license costs $24. If you're over 70 years old, you can renew for a four-year license at no cost, though you must renew in person at a DMV office. Payment by check, money order, debit card, or credit card is accepted.

Your new license will be valid for either four or eight years from the date of renewal, depending on which option you choose. The expiration date will be printed on your license. If you renew online or by mail, your new license will arrive by mail within 5 to 10 business days. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives.

Special situations: CDL, medical restrictions, and name changes

If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), renewal requirements are stricter. You must renew in person and provide a current medical certificate from a certified medical examiner. The certificate must be dated within 12 months of your renewal. Depending on your endorsements (such as hazmat or passenger), you may need to pass a written test or skills test.

If you have medical restrictions on your license or a suspension, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must visit a DMV office in person. The office staff will review your restrictions and determine whether they still explore to your renewal. If your name has changed, bring the legal document proving the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your other required documents.

What happens if your license is lost or stolen

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you cannot renew it by mail or online. You must visit a DMV office in person to request a replacement. Bring proof of residency, proof of your Social Security number, and payment for the replacement fee, which is the same as the renewal fee. The DMV will issue a new license with the same expiration date as your original license.

If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police for your records, though this is not required to obtain a replacement. The DMV does not need a police report to issue a replacement license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online if I wear glasses or contacts?

Yes. Online renewal is available as long as your license is still valid or expired less than a year ago and you have no medical restrictions or suspensions. The DMV will use the photo from your current license for your new license.

What if I moved to Missouri from another state?

If you have a valid out-of-state license, you can exchange it for a Missouri license by visiting a DMV office in person. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Missouri, proof of your Social Security number, and the renewal fee. You'll have a new photo taken and receive your Missouri license on the spot or by mail.

How long does it take to get my renewed license if I go in person?

If you renew in person at a DMV office, you'll receive your new license when ready or it will be mailed to you within 5 to 10 business days. The office will tell you which option applies when you complete your renewal.

Do I need an appointment to renew at the DMV?

Some Missouri DMV offices require appointments while others accept walk-ins. Check your local office's website before you visit to see their policy. You can schedule an appointment online through the Missouri Department of Revenue website.

What if my proof of residency is older than 60 days?

Missouri requires proof of residency dated within 60 days of your visit or process. If your document is older, bring a different one that meets the date requirement, such as a more recent utility bill or bank statement.