Top Determine the Status of Your License

You always need a current driver's license to operate a vehicle, so a mandatory renewal is required every four years.

Car insurance is also mandatory―the state determines the dollar minimums for each type of insurance coverage you need. If you're ready for a change, you can shop online for a carrier and compare rates at our Insurance Center.

Valid License

Owning a valid Class R license requires renewing every four years. You have two renewal options:

• Online

• In person

Ordering a driving record report will clarify any doubts regarding the status of your license.

NOTE: The license renewal process for commercial drivers differs from Class R licenses.

Expired License

Renewing an expired license comes with a $1 late fee. For more information, contact your local driver license location.

You may renew:

• In person

• Online, if your license has not been expired for more than one year

If you have doubts as to whether you're driving with an expired license, find out by ordering a driving record report.

Suspended License

Driving with a suspended license is not advised. To learn about the current status of your suspended or revoked license, give some thought to ordering a driving record report.

If and when you're reinstated, you may want to consider looking for an insurance carrier that won't penalize you for having a suspension with sky-high premiums.

Lost License

It's imperative that you immediately replace a lost or stolen license by applying for a duplicate.

Top Check Your Renewal Notice

Keep a keen eye on your license's expiration date, for the state does not send out renewal notices.

Top Renew Online

You cannot renew online if:

• Your current address is different from the one printed on your license.

• You used the online option for your last renewal.

• You're younger than 18 (within two months of turning 18 is okay) or older than 71.

Pay using MasterCard or Visa. In addition to the $21 renewal fee, you'll also be charged a $2.37 online fee and $1.50 for postage and handling.

Your new license should arrive in the mail within 12 days. If it does not arrive, contact the Department of Public Safety.

NOTE: You may renew online up to six months prior to your license's expiration.

Top Renew By Mail

Not an option.

Top Renew in Person

Visit your local driver license location with:

• Your expiring license.

• A check or cash to pay the $21 renewal fee.

Top Update Your Driving Skills

Renewing a license does not mean renewing your driving skills. Enrolling in a supplemental driving school course will hone your road-awareness and, depending on your insurance carrier, could lower your rates.

If your carrier does not acknowledge driving school courses, you always have the option of shopping for a new insurance company that does.

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