Renewing your driver’s license in Texas may feel like a boring task, but it doesn’t have to be stressful—especially for senior citizens. Whether you’re over 79 or just entering your senior years, understanding the renewal process can make everything smoother.
This guide explains everything seniors in Texas need to know about renewing their driver license, including how often you need to renew, how much it costs, and where you can do it.
How Long Is a Texas Driver’s License Valid?
The time your license stays valid depends on your age. If you’re under 18, it will expire on your 18th birthday. From age 18 to 84, your license is good for 6 years.
But once you turn 85, things change. You’ll need to renew your license every 2 years after that. This helps keep senior drivers up to date and safe on the road.
When Should Seniors Renew Their License?
You can renew your Texas driver license anytime from one year before it expires to two years after it has expired. This gives you plenty of time to handle the renewal.
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you’ll need to apply for a brand new license. That means taking a written test and a driving test again.
If you’ve moved since your last renewal, this is also a great time to update your address with the Texas DPS (Department of Public Safety).
What If Your License Is Suspended or Lost?
If your license is suspended, you cannot renew it until the suspension is lifted and your license is reinstated. If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can still renew it—as long as you have your license number and audit number from a previous card. This information helps the DPS verify your record.
How Seniors Can Renew Their License
There are four main ways to renew your license in Texas:
Online – The easiest and fastest method. You’ll need a printer to print out a temporary license.
By Phone – Just like the online method, you’ll give the same info over the phone.
By Mail – If you qualify, you’ll get a renewal form in the mail.
In Person – If you are 79 or older, you must renew in person.
When you renew in person, you may need to take a vision test. Depending on your health or driving history, you might also need to take a driving test or show extra documents. If you’re in the military and stationed outside Texas, you have 90 days after discharge to renew your license.
What Are the Renewal Fees for Seniors?
The renewal cost depends on your age. Seniors aged 85 or older pay just $9 to renew their license. Those between 18 and 84 pay $25, and those under 18 pay $6. You can pay using cash, credit or debit card, check, or money order at any DPS office.
For seniors in Texas, renewing your driver license doesn’t have to be a headache. Knowing how often you need to renew, what steps are required, and the different ways to do it can save you time and stress. If you’re 85 or older, remember you must renew every two years and do it in person.
Bring the needed documents, prepare for a possible vision test, and stay updated to continue driving safely. Whether online or at a DPS office, taking action early makes the process smoother and keeps you legal on the road.
