Renewing Your Texas Driver's License in 2025: A Complete Guide

Every driver in Texas must periodically renew their license to legally stay on the road. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has made this process more convenient than ever, offering multiple ways to renew, including a fast and easy online system. Understanding your options and what you need ahead of time can make your renewal experience quick and hassle-free.

This guide covers everything you need to know about renewing your Texas driver's license in 2025, from renewal timelines and eligibility to fees and what to do if your license is already expired.

When to Renew Your TX License

A standard Texas driver's license for adults (ages 18-84) is valid for eight years and expires on your birthday. [27, 40] The DPS gives you a generous window to renew: you can apply for renewal up to two years before your license's expiration date.

What if My License Has Already Expired?

Driving with an expired license is illegal. However, Texas provides a grace period for renewal.

• Expired Less Than Two Years: You can still renew your license following the standard procedures. You will not have to retake the knowledge or driving tests.
• Expired More Than Two Years: If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew it. You must start over and apply for a new license, which includes passing the knowledge test and the driving test again. [41]

Option 1: Renewing Your License Online

For most Texans, renewing online is the quickest and easiest method. It saves you from having to make an appointment and visit a DPS office.

Are You Eligible for Online Renewal?

You can generally renew your Class C driver's license online if: [14, 41]

• You are between the ages of 18 and 78.
• Your last renewal was completed in person at a DPS office. (You cannot renew online two times consecutively).
• Your license is not suspended or revoked, and you have no outstanding tickets or warrants.
• Your vision and your physical and mental condition have not changed in a way that affects your ability to drive safely.
• You are a U.S. citizen.
• Your Social Security number is already on file with the DPS.

How to Renew Online:

1. Visit the DPS Website: Navigate to the official Texas DPS online renewal portal.
2. Enter Your Information: You will need your current Texas driver's license, your date of birth, your audit number (found on your license card), and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
3. Confirm Your Details: The system will display the information the DPS has on file. You must confirm that all details, including your address, are correct.
4. Pay the Fee: Use a valid credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or American Express) to pay the renewal fee.
5. Print Your Temporary License: Once your payment is processed, you can download and print a temporary driver's license receipt. This is your legal license until your new card arrives. Your new, permanent license card will be mailed to your address on file and should arrive within 2-3 weeks.

Option 2: Renewing by Phone

If you meet the same eligibility requirements for online renewal, you can also renew by phone.

• Call: The number to call is 1-866-DL-RENEW (1-866-357-3639).
• Have Your Information Ready: You will need the same information as for online renewal: your license number, audit number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN. You will also need a valid credit card for payment.

Option 3: Renewing In Person

If you are not eligible for online renewal—for example, if you are 79 or older, need to change your name, or your last renewal was not in person—you must visit a DPS Driver License Office. An appointment is required.

What to Bring for an In-Person Renewal:

• Your current Texas Driver's License.
• A completed Renewal Application (Form DL-43).
• Proof of Identity and Citizenship: If you are upgrading to a REAL ID, you will need to bring primary documents like your birth certificate or passport.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay the renewal fee.

The In-Person Process:

1. Schedule an Appointment: You must schedule an appointment online through the DPS website.
2. Pass a Vision Test: All applicants renewing in person must pass a vision screening. [22]
3. Provide Biometrics: A new photograph and thumbprints will be taken.
4. Pay the Fee: Pay the renewal fee.
5. Receive Your Temporary Card: You will be given a temporary paper license to use for driving until your permanent card arrives in the mail.

Renewal Fees (as of early 2024)

• Ages 18-84: $33 for an eight-year license. [27, 40]
• Ages 85 and older: $9 for a two-year license. [27]
• Provisional License (Under 18): $16. [27]

By choosing the right renewal method for your situation and being prepared, you can ensure your license stays current with minimal hassle.