What documents to bring when you renew
To renew your driver's license, you will need to bring your current license, proof of identity, and proof of your current address. The exact documents vary by state, but most states accept a passport, birth certificate, or state ID as proof of identity. For your address, a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days usually works.
Some states also require proof that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful resident. This can be your passport, birth certificate, naturalization papers, or a visa. Check your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website before you go—each state has its own list, and bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip.
If your name has changed since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change. If you have moved since your last renewal, bring something showing your new address.
Key Takeaways
- You will need your current license, proof of identity (passport or birth certificate), and proof of your current address (utility bill or lease).
- Most states let you renew online or by mail if your license is not expired and you have not had a suspension or medical restriction added.
- If you renew in person, bring your documents to your local DMV office; processing usually takes a few minutes to an hour depending on how busy it is.
- Your state's DMV website lists exactly which documents it accepts, so check there before you go to avoid making a second trip.
- If your license is expired by more than a certain number of years (usually three to five), you may have to take a new written test or vision test instead of a straightforward renewal.
Renewing online or by mail instead of in person
Many states now let you renew by mail or online without visiting the DMV office. Online renewal is usually the fastest option—you upload photos of your documents, pay the fee, and your new license arrives in the mail within one to three weeks. Your state DMV website will tell you whether you are allowed to renew this way based on your license type and how long it has been since your last renewal.
Mail renewal works similarly: you send your current license, the required documents, a completed renewal form, and a check or money order to the address listed on your state's DMV website. Mail renewal takes longer—usually three to six weeks—because the DMV has to process it by hand. Some states charge a small extra fee for mail renewal.
You cannot renew online or by mail if your license has been suspended, if you have medical restrictions that need updating, or if your state requires you to take a new vision or written test. In those cases, you must go to the DMV office in person.
When you have to renew in person at the DMV
Go to your local DMV office if your license has been suspended or revoked, if you need to add or remove medical restrictions, or if your state requires a new vision test or written test. You will also need to go in person if your license has been expired for longer than your state allows for straightforward renewal—usually three to five years.
Bring all the documents listed above, plus your Social Security number (you may need to bring your Social Security card). Some states also require you to bring your vehicle registration if you are renewing a commercial driver's license. Arrive early in the day or on a weekday if possible; DMV offices are usually less crowded then.
The DMV will take a new photo, verify your documents, and process your renewal on the spot. You will pay the renewal fee and receive a temporary paper license to use while your plastic card is being printed. Your new license will arrive in the mail within one to three weeks.
How much it costs and how long it takes
Renewal fees vary widely by state, ranging from around $20 to $100 or more. Most states charge less for a standard renewal than for a first-time license. Some states offer a discount if you renew early, before your current license expires. Check your state DMV website for the exact fee.
If you renew online or by mail, expect your new license to arrive in one to three weeks. If you renew in person at the DMV office, you will get a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card will arrive in the mail within one to three weeks. Processing times vary by state and by how busy the DMV is at the time you explore.
Some states charge extra for expedited processing if you need your license sooner. This usually costs $10 to $30 more and cuts the wait time to a few days, but not all states offer it. Ask at the DMV office or check the website to see whether your state does.
What happens if your license is expired
If your license has been expired for only a short time—usually a few months—most states let you renew it the same way you would if it were still valid. You can renew online, by mail, or in person, depending on your state's rules.
If your license has been expired for longer—usually more than three to five years, depending on the state—you may have to take a new written test, vision test, or both. Some states treat a very old expired license as if you are getting your first license, which means you may have to take a driving test as well. Check your state DMV website to find out what happens with an expired license in your situation.
You can still drive on an expired license in most states while your renewal is being processed, as long as you have proof that you have submitted your renewal. Carry your temporary paper license or a copy of your online renewal confirmation with you.
Renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL)
Commercial driver's licenses have stricter renewal rules than regular licenses. You must renew in person at the DMV office—online and mail renewal are not allowed. You will need to bring your current CDL, proof of identity, proof of address, and your vehicle registration.
You will also need to pass a new medical examination by a certified medical examiner and bring the completed Medical Examination Report (Form MCSA-5875) to the DMV. This form is valid for 24 months, so you will need a fresh one each time you renew. Some DMV offices have medical examiners on staff, but you may have to visit a separate clinic.
CDL renewal takes longer than regular license renewal because of the medical examination requirement. Plan for at least a few weeks from the time you schedule your medical exam to the time your new license arrives. Some states require you to renew your CDL every four years; others require it every five years. Check your state DMV website for the exact timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it has been suspended?
No. You must clear the suspension first by paying any fines, completing a required course, or meeting other conditions set by your state. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew. Contact your state DMV to find out what you need to do to clear the suspension.
What if I have moved and my address on my license is wrong?
Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement) when you renew. The DMV will update your address at the same time. If you want to update your address before your renewal is due, most states let you do that online or by mail without renewing your license.
Do I need to take a new written test or vision test when I renew?
Not usually, unless your license has been expired for a long time or your state requires periodic testing. Most states only require a new vision test if your eyesight has changed or if you are renewing after a long gap. Check your state DMV website or call to find out whether you will need to take a test.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
If you renew in person at the DMV, you get a temporary paper license right away and your plastic card arrives in the mail within one to three weeks. If you renew online or by mail, the whole process takes one to three weeks. Some states offer expedited processing for an extra fee.
What if I lose my license before the new one arrives?
You can use your temporary paper license as proof of your valid license while you wait for the plastic card. If you lose the paper license too, contact your state DMV to request a replacement. You may have to pay a small fee for a duplicate.