Is your Texas driver’s license nearing its expiration date or has it already expired? That means you’re going to have to go through the steps for renewal. But what all will you need to do? From the different ways you can renew to the costs, here’s what you need to know.
How to Renew Your Texas Driver’s License
First things first, how do you go about renewing your license in the Lone Star State? You have a few options including online, by telephone, in-person, or by mail.
Online
Prefer to renew your license online? You can do so through the Texas online renewal system. You’ll need a valid credit card, your current Texas driver’s license, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Additionally, you’ll have to meet the following eligibility requirements:
Your last driver’s license renewal was in person.
You have a C, M, or CM driver’s license (no commercial license online renewals).
Your driver’s license can’t be expired for more than two years.
Your driver’s license must expire in less than two years.
You need to be at least 30 days from 18 years old and younger than 79.
Your vision, physical health, and mental state can not have changed since your last renewal.
Your license must not be revoked or suspended.
You can’t have any unpaid tickets or warrants.
Your Social Security number must be on file.
You must be a U.S. citizen.
If you can check all these boxes, you're good to go online.
By Telephone
If you’d like to call in and renew your driver’s license, you can call 1-866-DL RENEW (1-866-357-3639). However, you will have to meet the same requirements listed above for online renewals.
By Mail
You may receive an invitation to renew your driver’s license in the mail. If you do, you can follow the steps on the documents and send them back by mail. However, you’ll also have the option to opt for an online or over-the-phone renewal.
In-Person
If you can’t renew through the other options, or prefer to renew in person, you will need to go to your local driver’s license office. Before doing so, be sure to fill out the license renewal application and make an appointment. When you show up for your appointment, you’ll need to provide:
Your completed application.
An original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate or a valid U.S. passport.
Your Social Security card.
Be prepared for a vision exam, to have your picture taken, to give your fingerprints, and to pay the application fee.
How Much Does It Cost to Renew Your Texas Drivers License?
The cost to renew your Texas driver’s license can depend on a few factors. Here’s what you can expect for fees:
Renew your driver’s license without changing your address (ages 18-84): $33
Renew your driver’s license without changing your address (ages 85+): $9
Renew your driver’s license as a disabled veteran: Free
Renew your driver's license with a motorcycle endorsement with or without change of address: $44
When Do You Need to Renew Your Texas Drivers License?
You can get your license renewed up to two years before the expiration date. And, if the expiration date has already come and gone, you have up to two years after the expiration date to renew it. Most renewals extend your license validity for eight years.
What to Do if Your License Expires
If your license expires, you may not be out of luck yet. If you pass the two-year mark, you will need to apply for a brand new license. You'll also need to pass the written and driving tests again.
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