Top Determine the Status of Your License
You must hold a valid driver’s license to get behind the wheel, renewing it every year on or before your birthday. Additionally, you must carry adequate insurance as proof of responsibility, including no-fault insurance to cover the drivers who don’t pay attention to this rule. If you feel you need to purchase more insurance, try shopping our Insurance Center online.
Valid License
Class D regular licenses and motorcycle licenses expire on your birthday every year. Provisional licenses expire two years from the date of application instead of your birthday.
If you’re uncertain as to what type of license you have or when it needs to be renewed, look at your driving record.
NOTE: Commercial Drivers License holders have different renewal rules.
Expired License
You must renew on or before your birthday. If you let your license expire, you may have to pay extra fees. Check with the DPS office to find out.
If you aren’t sure of your license’s status, get a copy of your driving record.
Suspended License
Driving with a suspended license is against the law. To find out whether your license is suspended or on the verge of suspension, read your driving record, which contains useful information about points and infractions against you.
After you get your license back, you’ll have to pay higher insurance premiums. Consider shopping around for a new rate.
Lost License
When you misplace your license, it’s important to get a new one as soon as possible. It’s also a good idea to report it, especially if you think it’s been stolen.
Top Check Your Renewal Notice
Renewal notifications are mailed approximately two to three months in advance of your license's expiration date. These serve as a reminder, nothing more. You do not need to bring the notification in with you for renewal. Nor do you have to wait for the notification to renew. You can renew your license up to 12 months prior of its expiration.
Top Renew Online
There is no online renewal.
Top Renew By Mail
There is no mail renewal.
Top Renew In Person
You must appear in person to renew your license. Appointments are not accepted. Be prepared to:
- Bring your old license and provide your Social Security number (if you don’t have one, you can check the appropriate box on the form).
- Pay $24 for a Class D, $20.50 for a provisional license upgrade, or $15 for a provisional. Check with the office to see if they accept credit cards; checks and cash are the best bets.
Top Update Your Driving Skills
Even a regular driver’s license renewal doesn’t take the place of learning new traffic laws or refreshing your skills. Every once in a while, it’s smart to take a supplemental driving school course. Besides better driving, you may find your insurance rates lowered as a result.
Look at your current policy to see if there’s a discount for taking this course. Or, you may want to start shopping around for a new rate.