How to Renew Your California Driver's License

Where to Renew and What You'll Need

You can renew your California driver's license in person at a DMV office, by mail, or online through the DMV website — but not all three routes work for every person. The method available to you depends on your license type, how much time is left before it expires, and whether you've had any changes to your address or name since your last renewal.

Before you start, gather these documents: your current California driver's license, proof of California residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number if you're renewing for the first time in California. If your name has changed, bring a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree. You do not need to take a new photo or pass a written test unless your license has been expired for more than five years.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal works only if your license is not expired, you have no address changes, and your license was not suspended or revoked.
Mail renewal takes four to six weeks and requires you to submit your current license and a completed form DL 44 or DL 43.
In-person renewal at a DMV office is the fastest route if you need your new license quickly or have had any changes to your record.
Your new license will arrive by mail within two weeks of approval, whether you renewed online, by mail, or in person.
California licenses expire on your birthday, five years after they were issued, so check your expiration date before you start the process.

Online Renewal Through the DMV Website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. You can renew online only if your license is not yet expired, you have not moved, your name has not changed, and your license has never been suspended or revoked. You'll need to create or log into your DMV online account, answer a series of questions about your current license, pay the renewal fee (currently $64 for a five-year license), and submit the form electronically.

The DMV will mail your new license to the address on file within two weeks of approval. You do not need to visit an office or submit physical documents. If you do not meet all the requirements for online renewal — for example, if you've moved since your last license was issued — you must renew by mail or in person instead.

Mail Renewal and What to Send

Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal but works if you've had minor changes or your license is not yet expired. You'll need to complete form DL 43 (the renewal form), include your current driver's license, and mail both to the DMV address listed on the form. The DMV will process your process and mail your new license to the address you provide on the form.

Mail renewal typically takes four to six weeks from the date the DMV receives your envelope. During this time, your old license remains valid, so you can still drive. If you need your new license faster, or if your license has already expired, renewing in person at a DMV office is a better choice. You can read form DL 43 from the DMV website or pick one up at any DMV office.

In-Person Renewal at a DMV Office

Renewing in person is the best option if your license has expired, you've moved, your name has changed, or you need your new license within a few days. You'll take a new photo, answer a few questions, and pay the renewal fee. The DMV will process your process on the spot and mail your new license within two weeks.

To renew in person, you must make an appointment through the DMV website or by calling 1-800-777-0133. Walk-ins are not accepted at most offices. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. If your name or address has changed, bring the supporting documents (marriage certificate, court order, utility bill, or lease). The appointment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.

Fees and Payment Methods

The renewal fee for a standard five-year California driver's license is $64. If you're renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee is higher. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or check, depending on which renewal method you choose. Online and in-person renewals accept credit and debit cards. Mail renewals accept checks or money orders — do not send cash.

If you're renewing by mail, write your check or money order to the "Department of Motor Vehicles" and include it with your form and license. If you're renewing online, you'll enter your card information on the find DMV website. If you're renewing in person, you can pay at the counter with any of these methods.

What Happens If Your License Has Expired

If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead. This means you'll need to take a written test, pass a vision test, and take a new photo. You'll also need to provide proof of your Social Security number and California residency, just as you would for a renewal.

If your license expired less than five years ago, you can still renew it by mail or in person without retaking the written test. However, you cannot renew online if your license is expired. You must go to a DMV office or mail in your process. Bring your expired license with you or include it with your mailed process.

After You Submit Your Renewal

Once you've renewed — whether online, by mail, or in person — the DMV will mail your new license to the address on file. This usually takes two weeks but can take longer during busy periods. Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives, so you can continue to drive and use it as identification.

If your new license does not arrive within three weeks, contact the DMV to check the status of your process. You can call 1-800-777-0133 or check your process status online through your DMV account. If there's a problem with your address or the DMV needs more information, they will contact you by mail or phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your California driver's license up to 60 days before it expires. This is useful if you're planning to travel or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. The new license will have a new expiration date five years from the date you renew.

What if my address has changed since my last license?

If you've moved, you cannot renew online. You must renew in person at a DMV office or by mail. Bring proof of your new California residency — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The DMV will update your address and mail your new license to your new address.

Do I need a new photo for my renewal?

If you're renewing online or by mail, the DMV will use your photo from your current license. If you're renewing in person, the DMV will take a new photo. You cannot request to keep your old photo if you're renewing at an office.

What if I lost my current license?

If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot renew it by mail or online. You must go to a DMV office in person to report it lost and explore for a replacement. You can do this at the same time as your renewal, but you'll need to visit an office and make an appointment first.

How long is my license valid after I renew?

Your new California driver's license is valid for five years from the date you renew it. Your expiration date will be printed on the front of your license. You can renew again up to 60 days before that date expires.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.