Renewing a Texas driver license
The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.
Check whether you qualify to renew online, for example your last renewal was done in person and you are under 79.
Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026If eligible, renew online with a TxT account or by phone at 1-866-357-3639.
Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026If not eligible, book a DPS office appointment, where you complete an application, have a photo taken and pass a vision exam.
Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Pay the renewal fee: $33 for ages 18-84, $9 for 85 and older.
Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026Use the email confirmation (online or phone) or the office printout as a temporary license until the card arrives by mail.
Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.
Related facts
- Online renewal
- Yes. Eligible drivers can renew online through Texas by Texas (TxT) or by phone; among other conditions, the previous renewal must have been in person and the driver must be under 79 and a U.S. citizen.Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Renewal window
- A license can be renewed up to 2 years before it expires. If it has been expired more than 2 years you must apply as a new applicant and retake the knowledge and skills tests.Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- Renewal fee
- $33 for ages 18-84; $9 for 85 and older.Source: texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- How long a license lasts
- Most licenses for ages 18-84 are valid for eight years; licenses for drivers 85 and older last two years.Source: dps.texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
- In-person visit at least every 16 years
- Even if you renew online or by phone, you must visit a driver license office at least once every 16 years for a vision exam and new photo, signature and fingerprints.Source: dps.texas.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
More in the Texas guide
Official Texas links
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