How to Renew Your Louisiana Driver License

Step-by-step guide for renewing your Louisiana license through LA OMV. Covers online, mail, and in-person options, fees, and what to bring.

Validity 6 years

Standard fee $32

Renew early Up to 180 days before expiration

After expiration No formal grace period; a $15 late penalty applies after expiration

Step 1 — Check if you can renew online

Eligible Class E holders may renew online via ExpressLane if the license is valid/unexpired, not a first-time applicant, and no name/address changes are needed. License must not be suspended or revoked.

Start your online renewal at LA OMV →

Step 2 — Gather your documents

For an in-person renewal, bring:

Your current Louisiana driver license.
Proof of identity (passport, certified birth certificate).
Proof of Louisiana residency — utility bill, lease, or bank statement showing your current address (most states require two documents).
Social Security card or W-2.
Payment for the renewal fee (cash, check, or card — varies by office).

Step 3 — Pay the renewal fee

LA OMV charges $32 for a standard non-commercial license renewal valid for 6 years. CDL and motorcycle endorsement renewals cost extra; check the official fee schedule for exact amounts.

Step 4 — Take a vision test (if required)

Successful passing of a vision test is required as part of renewal. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them.

Step 5 — Receive your new license

You'll get a temporary paper license at the DMV that's valid for 30-60 days. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail in 7-14 business days. If your renewal was online, expect 10-21 days mailing time.

REAL ID upgrade in Louisiana

Louisiana issues REAL ID-compliant credentials; if you don't currently hold a REAL ID and renew online, your new card will be marked "Not for Federal Identification". The first REAL ID upgrade requires an in-person visit.

Common pitfalls

Don't forget address updates. If you moved since your last renewal, update the address before renewing — many states won't mail to a non-matching address.
REAL ID upgrade requires originals. Photocopies of your birth certificate or passport will be rejected. Bring the originals or certified copies.
Walk-in waits can be 2-4 hours. Book an appointment online at any of Louisiana's DMV offices.

Find your nearest Louisiana office

Use our Louisiana DMV office finder to locate the closest LA OMV location with addresses, hours, and turn-by-turn directions.

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