Renewing Your Texas Driver’s License or ID Card

Quick answer: Most Texans can renew a driver's license or ID card online at Texas.govTexas By TexasTexas By TexasTexas By Texas in about 10–15 minutes. A standard license renewal costs $33 and is valid for 8 years. If you don't qualify for online renewal, you can renew by phone, by mail (if invited), or in person at a DPS office.

Texas driver's licenses and ID cards can be renewed as early as two years before expiration and up to two years after. Renew any later than that and you'll need to apply as a new driver, including retesting.

How Much Does It Cost to Renew?

Fees include a $1 Texas.gov administrative charge, which is waived for renewals submitted by mail. Source: Texas DPS fee scheduleDriver License Driver License Fees Section.

Can You Renew Online?

Online renewal is the fastest option, but you need to meet all of these to qualify:

• Your last renewal was done in person at a DPS office
• You're younger than 79
• You hold a Class C, M, or CM license (or a non-hazmat CDL)
• Your license expires in less than 2 years, or has been expired less than 2 years
• You're a U.S. citizen with a Social Security number on file with DPS
• Your license isn't suspended or revoked, and you have no unpaid tickets
• Your vision, physical, or mental condition hasn't changed in a way that affects safe driving

One important exception: if you're upgrading to a REAL ID-compliant license for the first time, you must renew in person — this can't be done online or by phone.

If you qualify, renew directly at Texas.govTexas By TexasTexas By TexasTexas By Texas. You'll need:

• Your current license or ID (the audit number printed on the card)
• The last four digits of your Social Security number
• A printer or email address for your temporary license
• A credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or Amex) to pay the fee

Your temporary license prints or emails immediately; your new card typically arrives by mail in 2–3 weeks.

Renewing by Phone

If you meet the same eligibility requirements as online renewal, you can renew by calling 1-866-DL-RENEW (1-866-357-3639). Have your license number, audit number, last four digits of your SSN, and payment ready. You'll get a confirmation number at the end — keep it for your records.

Renewing by Mail

Mail renewal is invitation-only. DPS sends renewal notices about 180 days before your license or ID expires — customers eligible for online, phone, or mail renewal get a DR-32 notice; those who must renew in person get a DR-5 notice. If you received an eligible notice, follow its instructions exactly and include payment in the form specified. Texans stationed or studying outside the state can use the Out-of-State/Out-of-Country renewal packetDriver License Renew Or Replacing Your Dl Or Id While You Are Out State Section.

Renewing In Person

You'll need to visit a DPS office if you don't meet the criteria above — for example, if you're 79 or older, upgrading to REAL ID for the first time, or your last renewal wasn't in person. At your appointment:

1. Complete the license renewal applicationDriver License Renew Your Texas Dl Cdl Motorcycle License Or Id Section
2. Provide proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence and your Social Security number
3. Pass a vision test
4. Have your photo taken and provide a thumbprint
5. Pay the renewal fee

Booking ahead through the DPS appointment schedulerDriver License Driver License Services Appointments Section can save significant time versus walking in.

What If Your License Has Been Expired More Than 2 Years?

You can't renew — you'll need to apply as a new driver at a DPS office, which means retaking the knowledge and driving tests and meeting all first-time eligibility requirements. Use the License Eligibility SystemTxapp Txdps Dleligibility Login.do Txapps.texas.gov to check your current status and any outstanding requirements before you go in.

FAQ

How much does it cost to renew a Texas driver's license?

$33 for a standard Class C license (ages 18–84), valid for 8 years. Drivers 85 and older pay $9 for a 2-year renewal.

Can I renew my Texas driver's license online?

Yes, if your last renewal was in person, you're under 79, and a few other eligibility conditions are met. Renew at Texas.govTexas By TexasTexas By TexasTexas By Texas.

Do I have to renew in person for REAL ID?

Yes. Upgrading to a REAL ID-compliant license for the first time always requires an in-person visit, even if you'd otherwise qualify for online renewal.

What happens if my license has been expired for more than two years?

You can no longer renew it. You'll need to reapply as a new driver, including the written and driving tests.