It’s true what they say — time flies.
And sooner than you realize, your Ohio driver’s license is about to expire.
Whether you opted for a 4-year or 8-year license, it’s easy to miss out on any changes since your last renewal.
Well, we’ve gathered the most up-to-date details about the renewal methods available in Ohio (yes, there’s more than one!)
We’ve detailed the steps, as well as answered a few FAQs for additional information.
So, are you ready for your complete guide to Ohio driver’s license renewal?
Let’s go!
How to Renew A Driver’s License in Ohio
You’ll love that there are 3 methods to renew your Ohio driver’s license. These are:
- Online
- In-person
- By mail
Let’s explore each in detail.
How to Renew Your OH Driver’s License Online
Who doesn’t love online transactions?
No falling in line.
No commuting.
No wasting time.
That’s the experience you get if you renew online. You can complete the entire process from home.
Online renewal in Ohio is actually a new process that only started in July 2022 — if you’re unfamiliar with it, you’re not alone.
However, not everyone qualifies for an online driver’s license renewal.
So let’s start with eligibility.
Check out the criteria below and see which ones you can mark off:
- You’re a U.S. citizen
- You’re between 21 and 65 years old
- You’re renewing a non-commercial license
- You don’t intend to upgrade to a REAL ID-compliant credential
A check on all four boxes means you’re good to go!
If so, here’s what you need to do:
- Go to the Ohio BMV’s online portal and log in or create an account.
- Click the “DL/ID Renewal” link
- Answer the online questions and follow the prompts on the screen.
- Pay the $27.75 renewal fee ($53.40 if you want an 8-year license).
- Receive your new credential in the mail.
And that’s it!
Talk about convenience.
NOTE: You need to pass a vision screening every 8 years. Although you’re eligible for an online renewal this cycle, you’ll eventually need to go to a deputy registrar license agency.
How to Renew Your OH Driver’s License In-Person
Let’s say you’re not eligible for online renewal…
Or maybe you’re just not crazy about sharing your credit card information online…
Don’t fret – you can always renew your driver’s license at a deputy registrar license agency.
Here are the steps:
- Visit a deputy registrar license agency.
- Apply for a driver’s license renewal and present your driver’s license.
If you don’t have your credential, bring proof of the following:
- Full legal name and birth date
- Your citizenship or legal presence
- A valid Social Security Number
- Your residence in Ohio
Click here to know what documents will work. Take note that the required paperwork for standard and compliant licenses is different.
- Pay the renewal fee with cash, check, money order, or credit card. You’ll spend $27.75 for a 4-year license OR $53.40 for an 8-year one.
- Wait for your new license. It’ll arrive by mail within 7 to 10 days.
Maybe this method isn’t as convenient — but it’s still pretty easy if you ask us.
How to Renew Your OH Driver’s License By Mail
Mail-in renewals are a bit more exclusive.
What do we mean?
It’s only available for Ohio residents who are temporarily out of state when their license is about to expire.
Besides this, you must also comply with the following:
- You should have an Ohio address on record with the BMV
- You must be a citizen or a permanent resident. NOTE: The latter must present documentation to confirm their status.
- You are not renewing a commercial license (unless you want to downgrade it to Class D)
- You’re not subject to any warrant blocks or suspensions
- You’re not serving jail time
- Your driver’s license is current (or, if expired, less than 6 months past the expiration date)
If you are eligible, then follow these steps:
- Call the Ohio BMV at (844) 644-6268 and request an out-of-state renewal packet. You can also request for this by emailing the registrar.
- When the renewal packet arrives, complete it and enclose a check or money order with the appropriate renewal fee ($27.75 for a 4-year license or $53.40 for an 8-year license).
- Use the self-addressed envelope included in the packet and send it to the address indicated.
- Wait for your new license to arrive by mail. The BMV will send it to your out-of-state address.
FAQs
For more information on Ohio driver’s license renewal, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
When does my driver’s license expire in Ohio?
Ohio-issued driver’s licenses expire after 4 or 8 years, depending on what you purchased. However, there are a few exemptions, including:
- If you’re 20 or younger, your license expires on your 21st birthday. You can only renew it 30 days before the expiration date.
- If you’re 65 or older, your license expires after 4 years. The 8-year license option won’t be available to you.
What documents do I need to renew my Ohio driver’s license?
Typically, you only need to present your driver’s license (if it’s current or expired for less than 6 months).
However, if you can’t provide that, documents are necessary to prove the following:
- Your full legal name
- Your date of birth
- Your citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S.
- A valid Social Security Number
- Your residence in Ohio
Click here to know what you can use.
Is there a grace period for expired driver’s licenses in Ohio?
Although there is no penalty if you renew your license up to 6 months after its expiration, there is no grace period in Ohio. Once your license expires, you are NOT allowed to get behind the wheel anymore.
If you go over 6 months after expiration, you must get a temporary permit first. Otherwise, you cannot renew your driver’s license.
How much does it cost to renew your license in Ohio?
The amount depends on your license’s validity.
A 4-year license costs $27.75 to renew. The fee for an 8-year one is 53.40.
Do I need my birth certificate to renew my license in Ohio?
You only need to show it if you cannot present your driver’s license when you apply for renewal.
A birth certificate shows your name, birth date, and legal status. That’s 3 out of the 5 pieces of information the BMV requires.
Do I need an appointment to renew my driver’s license in Ohio?
Driver registrar license agencies entertain walk-in renewals. You don’t need to make an appointment if you complete the process in person.
The Wrap Up
And that’s about it — everything you need to know about Ohio driver’s license renewal.
Now you’re good to go whether you do it online, in person, or by mail.
So what are you waiting for?
Don’t delay any longer!
Go ahead and renew your Ohio driver’s license today.