How to Renew Your Virginia Driver's License

Where to Renew and What Method Works for You

Virginia lets you renew your driver's license in three ways: online through the DMV website, by mail, or in person at a DMV customer service center. Which method you can use depends on how much time is left on your current license and whether you need a new photo.

If your license expires more than 90 days from now, you can renew online or by mail without visiting an office. If it expires within 90 days, you must renew in person. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes longer — typically two to three weeks — because the DMV processes it after receiving your forms. In-person renewal is fastest if you need your license when ready, though you may wait at a customer service center.

You cannot renew online or by mail if your license is suspended, revoked, or if you need a new photo (which Virginia requires every 16 years for standard licenses, or every 8 years if you are over 65). You also cannot use online or mail renewal if you have changed your name since your last license was issued.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal works if your license expires more than 90 days away and you do not need a new photo, and takes 7 to 10 business days for delivery.
Mail renewal requires the same conditions as online but takes two to three weeks because the DMV processes it after receiving your packet.
In-person renewal is required if your license expires within 90 days, you need a new photo, or your license is suspended or revoked.
Virginia charges a renewal fee that varies by license type and validity period — check the DMV website for the exact amount before you start.
You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (credit card, debit card, or electronic check) to renew online.

Renewing Online Through the Virginia DMV Website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you meet the requirements. Go to the Virginia DMV website and select the renewal option. You will need your current driver's license number, your Social Security number, and your date of birth. Have a valid payment method ready — the DMV accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, or electronic check.

The system will ask you to confirm your address and personal information. If anything has changed — your name, address, or emergency contact — update it during this step. Review the information carefully before submitting payment, because corrections after renewal require a visit to a customer service center or a separate mail request.

After you submit the form and payment, the DMV will mail your new license to the address on file. You should receive it within 7 to 10 business days. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives, so you can continue driving and using it for identification.

Renewing by Mail

Mail renewal follows the same rules as online renewal — your license must expire more than 90 days away, you cannot need a new photo, and your name must match your current license. Request a renewal form from the Virginia DMV website, or call the DMV customer service line to have one mailed to you.

Complete the form and include a check or money order for the renewal fee made payable to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. Do not send cash. Mail the form and payment to the address listed on the form — this address changes depending on your license type, so check the form itself rather than relying on a general DMV address.

Processing takes two to three weeks after the DMV receives your packet, plus mail delivery time in both directions. If you are renewing close to your expiration date, mail renewal may not arrive in time. Your current license remains valid while your renewal is being processed.

Renewing in Person at a DMV Customer Service Center

In-person renewal is required if your license expires within 90 days, if you need a new photo, if your name has changed, or if your license is suspended or revoked. Find your nearest customer service center on the Virginia DMV website and check its hours before you go — not all centers are open the same days or times.

Bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed, bring a document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring a valid payment method: cash, check, debit card, or credit card.

You will have your photo taken at the center. The DMV will issue your new license on the spot or mail it to you depending on the type of license and the center's equipment. Ask the staff which applies to you. If your license is issued at the center, you can drive home with it. If it is mailed, your current license stays valid until the new one arrives.

What Happens If Your License Expires Before Your Renewal Arrives

If you renewed by mail or online but your license expires before the new one arrives, your old license is still valid for driving purposes until the new one reaches you. However, using an expired license for identification at a bank, airport, or other location may cause problems. If you are concerned about timing, renew in person instead — you will have your new license when ready or within a few days.

If your license has already expired and you have not yet renewed it, you can still renew online or by mail if you meet the other requirements. An expired license does not prevent renewal, though driving with an expired license is against Virginia law.

Renewal Fees and Payment Methods

Virginia charges different renewal fees depending on your license type and how long you are renewing it for. A standard five-year renewal costs less than an eight-year renewal. The DMV website lists the exact fee for your situation — check before you start the renewal process so you have the correct amount ready.

Online renewal accepts credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) and electronic check. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, or credit card. If you pay by check or money order, make it payable to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.

Special Situations: Name Changes, Address Changes, and License Suspensions

If your name has changed since your last license was issued, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit a customer service center in person and bring proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or other legal document. The DMV will issue a new license with your updated name.

If you have moved and your address on file is no longer current, you can update it during online or mail renewal. The DMV will mail your new license to your new address. If you are renewing in person, bring proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days.

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it online or by mail. You must visit a customer service center. The staff will tell you whether the suspension or revocation can be cleared and what steps are required. In some cases, you may need to pay a reinstatement fee or complete other requirements before a new license can be issued.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it has already expired?

Yes. An expired license does not prevent you from renewing online, by mail, or in person, as long as you meet the other requirements for your chosen method. However, driving with an expired license is illegal in Virginia, so renew as soon as possible.

How long does my new license take to arrive if I renew online?

Online renewals are mailed within one business day and typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Mail delivery times vary by location. Your current license remains valid for driving until the new one arrives.

What if I need my license before the renewal arrives?

Renew in person at a customer service center. You will receive your new license on the spot or within a few days, depending on the center's equipment and license type. Call ahead to confirm the center's hours and what to bring.

Do I need a new photo every time I renew?

Virginia requires a new photo every 16 years for standard licenses, or every 8 years if you are over 65. If your license is within those timeframes, you can renew online or by mail without a new photo. If a new photo is required, you must renew in person.

What if my address has changed since my last license?

Update your address during online or mail renewal, and the DMV will mail your new license to the new address. If renewing in person, bring proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days, such as a utility bill or lease.

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.