How to Renew Your Texas Driver License

Step-by-step guide for renewing your Texas license through TX DPS. Covers online, mail, and in-person options, fees, and what to bring.

Validity 8 years

Standard fee $33

Renew early Up to 2 years before expiration

After expiration May renew up to 2 years after expiration; beyond 2 years, cannot renew

Step 1 — Check if you can renew online

Eligible if your last renewal was in person, you are a U.S. citizen with SSN on file, under 79, hold a Class C/M/CM license or non-hazmat CDL, the license expires within 2 years or has been expired less than 2 years, with no outstanding warrants/tickets.

Start your online renewal at TX DPS →

Step 2 — Check what to bring

A straightforward renewal usually needs your current Texas licence and the fee. What else TX DPS 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 TX DPS renewal page before you go.

Step 3 — Pay the renewal fee

TX DPS charges $33 for a standard non-commercial license renewal valid for 8 years. CDL and motorcycle endorsement renewals cost extra; check the official fee schedule for exact amounts.

Step 4 — Take a vision test (if required)

Vision exam required at in-person 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 TX DPS and published on its renewal page. Plan around the dates it gives rather than a general estimate.

REAL ID upgrade in Texas

REAL ID-compliant cards display a star; non-star Texas DLs remain valid for state purposes but not for federal uses like boarding domestic flights after May 7, 2025.

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 Texas office list for locations and contact details.

Find your nearest Texas office

Use our Texas DMV office finder to locate the closest TX DPS location with addresses, hours, and turn-by-turn directions.