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

Every driver in Washington must periodically renew their license to legally stay on the road. The Washington State Department of Licensing (DOL) has made this process more convenient than ever, offering an efficient online renewal system for most drivers, as well as traditional in-person services.

This guide covers everything you need to know about renewing your Washington 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 WA License

A standard Washington driver's license is valid for eight years and expires on your birthday. The DOL gives you a generous window to renew: you can apply for renewal up to one year before your license's expiration date. While the state will send a courtesy renewal notice in the mail, it is your responsibility as a driver to know your expiration date and renew on time.

What if My License Has Already Expired?

Driving with an expired license is illegal. If your license has been expired for more than 60 days, you cannot renew online and must do so in person. If your license has been expired for more than eight years, you cannot renew it. You must start over and apply for a new license, which includes retaking and passing both the knowledge test and the driving test.

Option 1: Renewing Your License Online

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

Are You Eligible for Online Renewal?

You can generally renew your standard driver's license online if:

• Your last renewal was completed in person at a DOL office. (You cannot renew online two times consecutively).
• You do not need to change your name or other critical information that requires documentation.
• Your license is not suspended, revoked, or canceled.
• You are not required to take any tests (knowledge or driving).
• You do not have a commercial driver's license (CDL).
• You are not renewing an Enhanced Driver License (EDL).

How to Renew Online:

1. Visit the DOL Website: Navigate to the official Washington DOL online renewal portal, often found under "License eXpress."
2. Log In to Your Account: You will need to log into your License eXpress account or create one if you haven't already.
3. Select "Renew My License": Follow the prompts to begin the renewal application.
4. Confirm Your Details: The system will display the information the DOL has on file for you. You must confirm that all details, including your mailing and residential addresses, are correct.
5. Pay the Fee: Use a valid credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee.
6. Print Your Temporary License: Once your payment is processed, you will be able to download and print a temporary license that is valid for 45 days. Your new, permanent license card will be mailed to your address on file and should arrive within 2-4 weeks.

Option 2: Renewing In Person

If you are not eligible for online renewal—for example, if you need to get your first Enhanced Driver License, change your name, or your last renewal was online—you must visit a DOL office in person. It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online to reduce your wait time.

The Vision Test Requirement

A key part of the in-person renewal process is the vision test. All drivers renewing their license in person must pass a vision screening. If you wear glasses or contact lenses to drive, be sure to wear them for the test.

What to Bring for an In-Person Renewal:

• Your current Washington Driver's License.
• Your renewal notice (if you received one).
• Proof of Identity Documents (if applying for an EDL): If you are applying for your first Enhanced Driver License, you must bring the full set of original documents proving your identity, citizenship, and residency.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay the renewal fee. As of early 2024, the fee for an eight-year renewal is $89. Fees are subject to change.

The In-Person Process:

1. Schedule an Appointment: Use the DOL website to schedule a renewal appointment.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out the driver's license application form.
3. Pass the Vision Test: You must pass the vision screening administered by the DOL employee.
4. Get a New Photo: A new photograph will be taken for your updated license.
5. Pay the Fee: Pay the renewal fee.
6. Receive Your Temporary Card: You will be given a temporary paper license to use for driving until your permanent card arrives in the mail.

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