In most states, driver’s licenses require renewal every four years. If you received your first driver’s license at the standard age of sixteen, this means that you will be required to renew your license at the age of twenty. Although the expiration date will appear on your license card, most states do not issue any type of notification to warn drivers that their license is about to expire. It is important to keep your license up to date. Not only will you need a current copy of your driver’s license if you are pulled over by a police officer, many businesses, banks, and other organizations require a valid driver’s license as proof of your identity. The following are basic guidelines for renewing your driver’s license. You’re reading one of our “Beginner Driver’s Guide” articles. Need to practice for your upcoming exam? Take our free sample driving test -- no registration required! ✨
In most states, drivers are instructed to go to either their local courthouse or Department of Motor Vehicles office to renew their driver’s license. If you are unsure of where to go to renew your license, call your local courthouse for more information.
Department of Motor Vehicles offices and courthouse offices are notorious for long wait times. Make sure that you set aside plenty of time to get your license renewed. Also make sure that you bring your expired driver’s license with you.
Smile! Typically, your driver’s license photograph is updated every time you renew your license. Make sure to face forward, smile, and look natural. This picture will be used to identify you for the next four years.
It is imperative to renew your driver’s license as soon as it expires. Driving with an expired driver’s license can result in a traffic citation and fines.
