Texas Driver License Renewal
Everything you need to know about renewing your driver's license with the Texas Department of Public Safety.
Summary
Key Takeaways:
- Texas driver licenses are valid for up to 8 years (ages 18-84)
- Online renewal available every other renewal cycle
- REAL ID deadline: May 7, 2025 for federal purposes
- Renewal fee: $33 (ages 18-84), $10 (85+)
- Can renew up to 2 years before or after expiration
The online renewal process mandates that applicants meet specific criteria, including having a valid license that has not been expired for more than two years and providing essential information such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and proof of identity.
Important Limitations: Individuals can only renew online every other time, and specific age-related in-person renewal mandates apply for seniors (79 and older must renew in person).
Overview
The process of renewing a driver's license in Texas has undergone significant transformation, particularly with the introduction of online renewal services in July 2025. Traditionally, residents faced a cumbersome system that required in-person visits to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) offices, often involving long wait times, extensive paperwork, and potential vision tests.
Texas has modernized the driver's license renewal process, making it more accessible and efficient. The online renewal capability allows citizens to manage their renewals from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for physical visits and thus saving valuable time and effort.
Digital Services Available:
- Online renewal through Texas.gov or TxT platform
- Phone renewal: 1-866-DL RENEW (1-866-357-3639)
- Mail renewal (by invitation only)
- In-person renewal (appointment required)
All driver license services are now available by appointment only, though same-day appointments may be available at select driver license offices. The most convenient way to locate and schedule an appointment is through the DPS online scheduling system.
License Validity
Texas driver licenses are valid for up to eight years for residents aged 18 to 84. For those under 18, the license expires on their 18th birthday. Drivers aged 85 and older receive licenses valid for two years.
Renewal Window: You can renew your license up to 2 years before the expiration date or up to 2 years after expiration.
Cannot Be Renewed: If your license has been expired for more than two years, it cannot be renewed—you must apply for a new license and meet all original licensing requirements, including passing written and driving tests again.
REAL ID Compliance ★ REAL ID
What is REAL ID?
Beginning May 7, 2025, only REAL ID-compliant driver licenses and identification cards are accepted for official federal government purposes, such as:
- Boarding domestic flights within the United States
- Entering secure federal buildings
- Accessing military bases
- Entering nuclear power plants
How to Identify a REAL ID
Texas began issuing REAL ID compliant cards on October 10, 2016. These cards are marked with a gold circle with an inset star located in the upper right-hand corner of the card.
Check Your License:
- If you have the star: Your card is REAL ID compliant, and no further action is required until expiration
- If you don't have the star: You can still use your license for state purposes (driving, voting, banking) but not for federal purposes after May 7, 2025
REAL ID Documentation Requirements
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant license, you must provide:
- Proof of Identity: Original or certified copy of birth certificate OR unexpired U.S. passport book or card
- Social Security Number: Social Security card or acceptable documents showing your SSN
- Two Proofs of Texas Residency: Documents showing your name and current Texas address
- Proof of Lawful Presence: Documentation proving legal U.S. status
Additional Requirements:
- If you own a vehicle: Registration or title and auto insurance policy
- If your name has changed: Legal documents showing proof (marriage license, divorce decree, etc.)
- Documents must be originals or certified copies—laminated documents and photocopies may not be accepted
Texas DPS offers an interactive REAL ID Document Check Application on their website to help you determine exactly what documents you need based on your specific situation.
REAL ID Fees
There is no additional fee for a REAL ID-compliant card in Texas. As a single-issuance state, Texas only issues REAL ID compliant cards, and the standard renewal fees apply.
Eligibility Requirements
General Eligibility Criteria
- Age and License Status: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid driver's license that has not been expired for more than two years
- Health Conditions: The applicant's vision, physical, and mental conditions must not have changed in a way that affects their ability to drive safely since the last renewal
- License Standing: The license must not be suspended or revoked. Additionally, applicants should not have any outstanding warrants or unpaid traffic tickets
- Citizenship Status: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or provide evidence of lawful presence in the country
Additional Requirements for Online Renewal
For those looking to renew their driver's license online, specific criteria must be met:
Online Renewal Eligibility Checklist:
- Age: Between 19 and 78 years old
- Previous Renewal: Must have renewed in person during last cycle (online every other time only)
- License Class: Class C, M, or CM (CDLs allowed unless Hazmat-endorsed)
- Social Security: SSN must be on file with DPS
- Expiration: License expires within 2 years or expired less than 2 years
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen only
- Health: No significant changes affecting driving ability
Mandatory In-Person Renewals
You MUST renew in person if you are:
- Under 18 years old
- 79 years old or older
- Experiencing changes in vision, physical, or mental condition
- A non-U.S. citizen living in Texas temporarily
- Renewed online, by phone, or by mail during your last renewal cycle
Renewal Process
Online Renewal
The online renewal process is available for eligible drivers who meet the requirements outlined above.
What You'll Need:
- Driver's license number and audit number from your card
- Social Security number
- Valid credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, or American Express)
- Printer or email address for temporary license and receipt
Bonus: When renewing online, you can update your emergency contact information.
Processing Time: Temporary license issued immediately. New permanent license arrives by mail within 45-60 days.
Remember: You can only renew online every other time. If you renewed online last time, you must renew in person this time.
In-Person Renewal
All driver license services require appointments. Schedule online through the DPS website up to six months in advance.
During your visit, you will:
- Complete the renewal application
- Undergo an eye exam
- Have your thumbprint taken
- Get a new photo
Appointment Tips:
- Book as early as possible, especially during peak periods
- Avoid Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays (busiest days)
- Avoid lunchtime (11 am to 1 pm)
- Check smaller towns if local offices are fully booked
Processing Time: New license typically processed within 15-20 days.
Phone Renewal
Call 1-866-DL RENEW (1-866-357-3639) to renew by phone. Requirements mirror online renewal. Note: Temporary licenses and payment receipts are not available when renewing by phone.
Mail Renewal
Available only if DPS sent you an invitation. Follow all instructions on the form. You can also choose to renew online or by phone if you prefer.
Out-of-State Renewal
If you're temporarily living outside Texas (military members, students), download the Out-of-State or Out-of-Country packet from the DPS website. Complete and submit with fees—your license will be mailed to you.
Fees
Standard Renewal Fees (2025)
| License Type |
Age Group |
Fee |
Validity Period |
| Driver License |
18-84 |
$33 (includes $1 admin fee) |
8 years |
| Driver License |
85+ |
$10 ($9 + $1 admin fee) |
2 years |
| Driver License |
Under 18 |
$16 |
Until 18th birthday |
| Motorcycle License (M) |
New |
$33 |
8 years |
| Motorcycle License (M) |
Renewal |
$44 |
8 years |
| Commercial Driver License (CDL) |
18-84 |
$97 |
8 years |
| Commercial Driver License (CDL) |
85+ |
$26 |
2 years |
| CDL with Hazmat |
All ages |
+$61 (plus background check) |
Varies |
| Commercial Learner's Permit |
All ages |
$25 |
Varies |
| Replacement/Update |
All ages |
$11 |
N/A |
Note: The $1 administrative fee is included in online and in-person transactions but is NOT charged for mail transactions.
Late Renewal Fees
- Expired 90 days or less: 1.5x (150%) the normal fee
- Expired 91 days to 1 year: 2x (200%) the normal fee
- Expired 1-2 years: Standard renewal fee applies
- Expired more than 2 years: Cannot renew—must apply for new license with tests
Additional Fees
- Driver License Hold Reimbursement: $10 (when on hold due to unpaid fines)
- OMNI Fee: $10 per case (to clear holds after warrants are lifted)
- General Reinstatement: $100
- DWI Administrative Revocation: $125
- Fraudulent Records Revocation: $100
Tips for a Smooth Renewal Process
1. Gather Required Documents
Essential Documents:
- Proof of identity (passport or birth certificate)
- Social Security card
- Proof of Texas residency (two documents for REAL ID)
- Your current driver's license
Critical: Bring ORIGINAL documents, not copies!
2. Check REAL ID Status
Look for the gold star on your current license. If it's missing and you plan to fly or access federal facilities after May 7, 2025, obtain a REAL ID-compliant license during renewal.
3. Verify Eligibility
Check your eligibility online through the DPS website or Texas.gov before attempting to renew. This helps you determine if you can renew online or must visit an office.
4. Schedule Appointments Early
Book appointments up to six months in advance. If local offices are full, check smaller towns nearby. Avoid peak times and seasons.
5. Know Your Limitations
- Online renewal: Every other time only
- Expired 2+ years: Must apply for new license with tests
- Ages 79+: Must renew in person
- Health changes: Require in-person renewal
6. Plan for Processing Times
- Online/Phone/Mail: 45-60 days (temporary license issued immediately for online)
- In-Person: 15-20 days
7. Track Your License
Check the mailing status on the DPS webpage "Where's my driver license or ID card?" to track when your new license will arrive.
Quick Reference: Key Facts
License Validity
8 years (ages 18-84)
2 years (85+)
Renewal Window
Up to 2 years before
OR after expiration
Standard Fee
$33 (ages 18-84)
$10 (ages 85+)
Online Renewal
Every other time only
Ages 19-78
REAL ID Deadline
May 7, 2025
For federal purposes
Phone Renewal
1-866-DL RENEW
(1-866-357-3639)
Online Processing
45-60 days
(temp license immediate)
In-Person Processing
15-20 days
(appointment required)