Renewing Your License in Pennsylvania

Determine the Status of Your License

You'll need a current driver's license to legally operate a motor vehicle, so pay attention to the date that your license expires.

Of course, to drive you also need to maintain proof of financial responsibility. Carrying the appropriate level of auto insurance is the easiest way to do this. To find the best rates available in your situation, be sure to spend some time in our Insurance Center.

Valid License

Your class C standard or class M motorcycle license will expire every four years (if you're younger than 65) or two years (if you're older than that). You may renew:

• By mail

• Online

See below for details about each method. Commercial drivers should visit our Renewing Your CDL page for information on their situation.

If you're unsure about your license status, you can always obtain a copy of your driving record.

Expired License

Although you can't legally drive on an expired license, the state doesn't have any firm restrictions on how long you have to renew an expired license without facing additional consequences. But you may be issued a traffic ticket if you drive without a valid driver's license.

You should be able to renew your expired license by following one of the methods outlined below. If you need to check on your license status, you can always buy a copy of your driving record.

Suspended License

Dealing with a suspended license issues can be difficult. Ordering a copy of your driving record is one way to stay on top of things. Also, because your insurance rates are likely to rise, you should visit our Insurance Center to find some of the best deals around.

See our Suspended License page for information on how to reinstate your license, as well as the costs involved.

Lost License

Just follow the instructions provided in our Replacing a Lost License page to obtain a duplicate or replacement license.

Check Your Renewal Notice

About 90 days before your license expires, you should receive a reminder notice in the mail. If you don't receive it, you should complete Form DL-143 instead. You'll need either the completed renewal notice or form if you want to renew by mail.

Renew Online

You can't apply online if:

• Your current driver license information is incorrect or needs to be changed.

• An out-of-state address appears on your driver's license.

• Your current license doesn't have a photo.

• You don't have a valid American Express, Discover, MasterCard, or Visa credit card to pay the renewal fee.

Otherwise, you can renew by:

1. Going to the renewal site.
2. Entering your driver's license number.
3. Entering your date of birth.
4. Entering your Social Security number.
5. Paying your renewal fee.

Within seven to 10 days of completing the process, you should receive a camera card in the mail. Take it, along with your Social Security Card and one other form of identification, to any Photo Center to have your new digitalized license processed.

Renew by Mail

Send either your completed renewal card or Form DL-143 and your fee payment (check or money order) to:

• Bureau of Driver Licensing

• P.O. Box 68272

• Harrisburg, PA 17106-8272

Within seven to 10 days, you should receive a camera card in the mail. Bring the card, along with your Social Security Card and one other form of identification, to any Photo Center to have your new digitalized license processed.

Military Personnel

If you or an immediate family are currently enrolled in the armed forces, you don't need to maintain a current license, but be sure to always have proof of military status with you when driving. Within 45 days of becoming inactive, you must renew your license. See our Drivers in the Military article for more information.

Renew in Person

The state doesn't permit in person license renewals, so you'll have to follow one of the options outlined above.

Update Your Driving Skills

No matter your age or when your license expires, it's a good idea to keep your driving skills and safety practices at their best. You can do this by completing a traffic school course. And, it could save you money on your insurance. Talk to your provider about discounts, or do some shopping for another company in our Insurance Center that will offer those discounts.

Your Opinion Matters To Us!