District of Columbia License Renewal at a Glance
How to Renew Your Driver's License in District of Columbia
You renew your license through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DC DMV). DC licenses last 8 years. They expire on your birthday. For a general overview of renewal rules across all states, see our driver's license renewal guide. Here are your options and steps.
Ways to Renew
- Online — the fastest way to renew. Visit the DC DMV renewal portal.
- In person — go to a DC DMV office. First-time REAL ID, vision tests, and new photos all need an in-person visit.
Steps to Renew
- Check eligibility — Visit the DC DMV website. Check if you can renew online. Your license must not be expired over 365 days.
- Gather documents — Have your license, SSN, and payment ready. For REAL ID, bring your birth certificate and two proofs of DC residency.
- Complete the renewal — Use the online portal or visit a DC DMV service center. Review your info and submit payment.
- Pass the vision test — In-person renewals require a vision screening. Drivers 70+ may need a reaction time test.
- Receive your license — Get a temp license at the service center. Online? Your card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
District of Columbia Driver's License Renewal Fees
| Standard renewal fee | $47 |
| Duplicate/replacement license | $20 |
| Motorcycle endorsement | $44 |
| Name change | $20 |
| Address change | $20 |
| Valid for | 8 years |
The fee is $47 for an 8-year license. There is no late fee.
What to Bring
Bring these docs when you renew:
- Current or expired DC driver's license
- Social Security number
- Proof of identity (birth certificate or passport for REAL ID)
- Two proofs of DC residency (for REAL ID)
- Renewal fee payment
Who Can Renew Online
You can renew online if you meet these rules:
- Your license is not expired more than 365 days
- You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Your license is not suspended or revoked
- You have no outstanding tickets
- You do not need a new photo
DC requires in-person renewal with a photo at least every other cycle.
Go to DC DMV online renewal portalWhat Happens If Your District of Columbia License Expires
DC has no formal grace period. Driving on an expired license can result in a fine.
- Before expiry — Up to 60 days before expiration
- After expiry — Up to 365 days after expiry for standard renewal
- Long-lapsed penalty — Over 365 days expired? Retake the knowledge and road tests. Driving expired can bring a $100 fine.
If you also need to update your vehicle registration, see our car registration renewal guide.
Important: You cannot drive with an expired license in District of Columbia. The window only affects how you renew. It does not let you drive past your expiry date.
Vision Test & Health Rules
- Vision test — Yes, at every in-person renewal. A vision screening is required.
- In-person visits — DC requires in-person renewal with a photo at least every other cycle.
- Wait time — In-person renewals issue a temp license right away. Your card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Common District of Columbia License Renewal Mistakes
Watch out for these mistakes:
Showing up without an appointment
DC DMV service centers require appointments for most services. Book online before you go.
Driving on an expired license in DC
DC has strict traffic enforcement. Driving expired can bring a $100 fine and your car could be impounded.
Not having two proofs of DC residency for REAL ID
DC requires two separate documents proving DC address. Utility bills, bank statements, or lease agreements work.
Confusing DC and state requirements
DC has its own rules separate from Maryland and Virginia. Don't assume neighboring state rules apply here.
REAL ID Info for District of Columbia
DC offers REAL ID at no extra cost. Visit a DC DMV service center with your birth certificate or passport, SSN, and two proofs of DC address.
You need a REAL ID (gold star) to board U.S. flights. You also need one to enter federal buildings. This started May 7, 2025. Get one at your next in-person visit. See our full REAL ID deadline guide for costs and next steps.
Senior & Age Rules
Drivers 70 and older may be required to pass a reaction time test in addition to the vision screening.
What Makes District of Columbia Different
DC is not a state but issues its own driver licenses with a unique design.
DC has some of the strictest parking and traffic enforcement in the country. Keep your license current.
DC DMV service centers require appointments for most services.