8 years is a long time.
Do you still remember the Oregon driver’s license renewal process?
Is the process still even the same?
We’re here to give you the latest steps and requirements on how to renew your driver’s license in Oregon.
So if you need to renew soon, follow along!
How to Renew A Driver’s License in Oregon
You’ll be happy to know that there are 3 ways you can renew your OR driver’s license. These are:
- Online
- In Person
- By Mail
Let’s explore each one in detail. This way, you’ll know what to do for your chosen channel.
How to Renew Your OR Driver’s License Online
Among the renewal channels, online is the most popular — and that’s not surprising.
Imagine being able to renew your license without leaving your home!
Hold up…
You need to be eligible for online renewal.
See if you can check all the eligibility requirements below:
- You have a photo with the DMV taken no more than 9 years ago and you don’t want to change it.
- You don’t need to change your height and weight on file.
- You can provide proof of your new Oregon address if you’ve moved since your last renewal.
- You don’t want to switch to a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license.
- You don’t have a farm or hazmat endorsement
- You don’t have a limited-term license.
- You don’t want to modify restrictions or endorsements on your license.
- The DMV hasn’t suspended, canceled, or revoked your driving privileges (whether in Oregon or elsewhere).
- You have a credit card to pay the renewal fee online.
Once you confirm you’re good to go, here are the steps:
- Go to the DMV2U page, select ‘Renew my expiring card’, and log in.
- Answer the security and medical questions.
- Upload documents showing your current Oregon address (only if you’ve moved since your last renewal)
- Pay the $40 renewal fee for a standard license OR $70 for a Real ID-compliant license.
- Receive your online receipt while waiting for your new license to arrive via mail. You can use this receipt to drive around.
How to Renew Your OR Driver’s License In-Person
Let’s say you aren’t eligible for online renewal.
Well, you’ll have to renew at a DMV office.
Sure, it might not be as convenient, but it’s far from complicated.
Here’s what you have to do:
- Decide whether you want to upgrade to a Real ID-compliant license. If so, you’ll have to bring additional documents.
- Go to the DMV2U page and make an appointment for your DMV visit.
| NOTE: You can also walk in, but having a schedule can cut your wait time. |
- Gather the following documents:
- Proof of identity
- Your complete name (for REAL-ID only)
- Proof of residence in Oregon (you need 2 if upgrading to a REAL ID)
You can find an extensive list of documents you can use here.
- On your appointment, do the following:
- Present the documents you prepared
- Pass a vision screening (only for drivers 50 or older)
- Pay the appropriate renewal fee ($40 for a standard license and $70 for a REAL ID)
- Have your photo taken
- Get your interim card (which can be used to drive) and wait for your new credential to arrive through the mail. It will take around 20 days.
How to Renew Your OR Driver’s License by Mail
If you’re out of state when your license expires, you can try to confirm with the DMV if you can renew by mail.
Call (503) 945-5000 to find out if it’s allowed and what the steps are.
Otherwise, consider renewing your driver’s license online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oregon Driver’s License Renewal
For how long is an Oregon driver’s license valid?
Driver’s licenses in Oregon remain valid for 8 years.
However, you don’t need to wait until the last minute to renew it. You can renew your Oregon-issued driver’s license up to a year before its expiration date.
Drivers on active military duty can also renew up to 6 months after discharge.
What documents do I need to renew my license in Oregon?
Part of renewing your Oregon-issued driver’s license means providing proof of identity and Oregon residence.
However, if you have (or want to upgrade to) a REAL ID-compliant license, you have to submit additional documents. This includes:
- 2 proofs of Oregon residency
- Proof of full name
For a full list of acceptable documents to bring, click here.
Do you have to take a test to renew your license in Oregon?
A vision test becomes part of the renewal process once you turn 50 years old.
That said, the DMV only requires it for in-person transactions.
Another thing.
you can’t renew your license if it expired more than two years ago. Instead, you must apply for a new one.
That means undergoing the same tests as when you got your license for the first time — the vision, written and driving tests.
Is there a grace period for expired driver’s licenses in Oregon?
Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the OR DMV granted a 6-month grace period for drivers with expired licenses.
But, since January 2022, that is no longer applicable.
Now a police officer can give you a citation for driving without a valid license — even if it has just expired.
A conviction may involve a fine that could range anywhere between $135 to $1,000. You may also lose your driving privileges for at least 180 days.
How much does it cost to renew a driver’s license in Oregon?
The renewal fee varies, depending on the type of license you have.
Standard licenses cost $40 to renew.
If you have one that’s REAL ID-compliant, or you want to upgrade to this license type, you’ll have to pay $70.
The Wrap Up
There you go — all the latest information you need about the Oregon driver’s license renewal process.
When the time comes, you’ll be ready.
All you need to do is determine which method is available to you and follow the steps!
Good luck!