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 — Check what to bring

A straightforward renewal usually needs your current Louisiana licence and the fee. What else LA OMV asks for depends on whether you are also upgrading to REAL ID, changing your name or address, or renewing after a lapse — and those requirements differ by state. Check the current list on the LA OMV renewal page before you go.

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 licence

Most agencies issue an interim credential you can drive on while the printed card is produced, then post the card separately. How long the interim lasts and how long the card takes are both set by LA OMV and published on its renewal page. Plan around the dates it gives rather than a general estimate.

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.
Book ahead where you can. Walk-in waiting times vary by office and time of year and we do not track them, but an appointment removes the question — see the Louisiana office list for locations and contact details.

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.