How to Renew Your Virginia Driver's License

Where to Renew and What You Need Before You Start

Virginia lets you renew your driver's license in person at a DMV office, by mail, or online depending on your situation. Not every renewal method works for every person — your age, when your license expires, and whether you need a new photo all determine which route you can take. Before you choose a method, gather your current license, proof of Virginia residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number.

The fastest option is usually online through the Virginia DMV website if you are between 21 and 70 years old and your license is not expired. Mail renewal takes about two weeks from the time the DMV receives your packet. In-person renewal at a DMV office typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Key Takeaways

Virginia offers three renewal methods — online, by mail, and in person — and which one you can use depends on your age and whether your license is currently expired.
Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal and takes a few minutes, but only works if you are between 21 and 70 and your license has not yet expired.
Mail renewal requires you to send your current license and a completed form to the DMV, and the new license arrives by mail in roughly two weeks.
In-person renewal is required if your license is expired, if you are under 21 or over 70, or if you need a new photo or address change.
Your Virginia driver's license is valid for eight years if you are under 70, and you can renew it up to one year before it expires.

Online Renewal Through the Virginia DMV Website

Online renewal is the least expensive option and takes about 10 minutes. You can renew online if you are between 21 and 70 years old, your license is not expired, and you have not had any violations or suspensions in the past five years. Go to the Virginia DMV website, select "Renew Your License," and create an account or log in if you already have one.

You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The fee for online renewal is $24. After you complete the transaction, the DMV mails your new license to the address on file. If you need to change your address, you cannot do it online — you must renew in person or by mail.

Mail Renewal: Sending Your License to the DMV

Mail renewal works if you are between 21 and 70, your license is not expired, and you have not had violations or suspensions in the past five years. read the "process for Driver's License or Permit" form (DL 43) from the Virginia DMV website or pick one up at any DMV office. Fill out the form completely, including your current license number and signature.

Mail your current license, the completed DL 43 form, and a check or money order for $24 to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope with your address if you want the DMV to mail your new license back to you. The DMV typically processes mail renewals within two weeks of receiving your packet, though processing time can be longer during busy periods. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address you provided.

In-Person Renewal at a DMV Office

You must renew in person if your license is expired, if you are under 21 or over 70 years old, if you need a new photo, or if you want to change your address. Bring your current license, proof of Virginia residency (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security number. If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Visit any Virginia DMV office during business hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., and some locations have Saturday hours. You can check wait times and book an appointment online through the Virginia DMV website, which often reduces your time in the office. The fee for in-person renewal is $36 if you are under 70, or $24 if you are 70 or older. You will receive your new license on the spot.

Address Changes and Name Changes During Renewal

If you are renewing by mail or online, you cannot change your address or name at the same time. You must renew in person at a DMV office to make either of these changes. Bring the same documents you would for a standard in-person renewal, plus a certified copy of any legal document showing a name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

If you have already renewed and now need to change your address, you can update it online through the Virginia DMV website without renewing your license. You can also change your address in person at any DMV office.

What Happens If Your License Expires

If your license has already expired, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must go to a DMV office in person. Bring the same documents as you would for a standard in-person renewal. The fee is still $36 if you are under 70. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you may need to retake the written test and vision test, depending on how long it has been expired. Call your local DMV office or check the Virginia DMV website to confirm what you need before you go.

You can renew your license up to one year before it expires, so you do not have to wait until the expiration date. Renewing early avoids the rush and means you will not accidentally let your license expire.

Finding a DMV Office and Checking Wait Times

Virginia has DMV offices in most cities and counties. Use the office locator on the Virginia DMV website to find the location nearest you, see current hours, and check real-time wait times. Many offices now let you book an appointment online, which typically reduces your wait to 15 to 30 minutes instead of the walk-in average of 30 to 45 minutes.

If you live in a rural area far from a DMV office, you may be able to renew by mail or online depending on your situation. Some satellite offices and service centers offer limited DMV services, including renewals. Check the Virginia DMV website to see if a satellite location near you offers the service you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it expired more than a year ago?

Yes, but you must renew in person at a DMV office. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you may need to retake the written test and vision test. Contact your local DMV office before you go to confirm what documents and tests you will need.

How long does it take to get my license in the mail after I renew?

Mail renewals typically arrive within two weeks of the DMV receiving your packet. Processing times can be longer during busy periods. If you need your license sooner, renew in person at a DMV office and you will receive it when ready.

Can I change my address when I renew online?

No. Online renewal only updates your license expiration and photo status. If you need to change your address, renew in person at a DMV office or by mail. You can also update your address separately online through the Virginia DMV website without renewing your license.

What if I lost my current license before I could renew it?

You cannot renew by mail or online without your current license number. Go to a DMV office in person and bring your proof of residency and Social Security number. The DMV can look up your information and issue a replacement license. You may pay a replacement fee in addition to the renewal fee.

Do I need a new photo every time I renew?

No. If you renew online or by mail, the DMV uses your existing photo. You only get a new photo if you renew in person at a DMV office. If you want a new photo but are not required to renew in person, you can still go to a DMV office and request a new photo for a separate fee.

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.