Virginia drivers should be aware that the state has recently overhauled its license renewal process, introducing new requirements and procedures that take effect in 2025. These changes impact how, when, and where you can renew your license, as well as what documentation may be required.
REAL ID Requirement Now in Effect
One of the most significant updates is the mandatory compliance with the federal REAL ID Act. Starting May 7, 2025, Virginians who want to use their driver’s license to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities must have a REAL ID-compliant license or present another federally approved form of identification.
When renewing, you are strongly encouraged to upgrade to a REAL ID if you have not already done so. This process requires additional documentation, including proof of identity, legal presence, Social Security number, and Virginia residency.
Renewal Frequency and In-Person Requirement
Virginia driver’s licenses are generally valid for eight years. However, a key change is that you are now required to renew your license in person every other renewal cycle. For example, if you renewed online or by mail last time, your next renewal must be done in person at a DMV customer service center or DMV Connect location.
This ensures that your photo and other information are kept current. After an in-person renewal, you may be eligible to renew online or by mail for your next cycle, and so on.
Vision Screening and Documentation
When renewing in person, you must pass a vision screening and have a new photograph taken. You will also need to provide proof of legal presence if required. The renewal fee remains the same as the licensing fee, with a standard license costing $32. If you are upgrading to a REAL ID, expect to pay an additional $10 fee.
Renewal Reminders and Timing
The DMV will send renewal reminders via email, text, or mail approximately 90 days before your license expires. You can renew your license as early as one year before the expiration date.
If you renew by mail, the DMV will use the photo from your existing license, and your new license may take up to 15 days to arrive. It’s crucial to ensure your address and other details are up to date to avoid delays.
Expired License Rules and Penalties
There is no grace period for driving with an expired license in Virginia. While you can renew up to 90 days after expiration without a late penalty, you are not permitted to drive with an expired license.
If your license has been expired for more than a year, you must retake both the knowledge and driving skills tests to renew. Driving with an expired license is a Class 2 misdemeanor, which can result in fines, penalties, and a suspension of up to 90 days.
Special Rules for Older Drivers
Drivers aged 75 and older must renew their licenses every five years, rather than the standard eight-year period. They are also required to renew in person each time and must pass a vision screening at every renewal.
Additional Services During Renewal
When you renew your license, you can also update your voter registration address, change your organ donor status, and make other administrative updates as needed.
Virginia’s new license renewal rules are designed to enhance security and ensure compliance with federal identification standards.
The requirement for in-person renewal every other cycle, the mandatory vision screening, and the push for REAL ID compliance represent significant changes that all drivers should prepare for.
Staying informed and renewing on time will help you avoid penalties and ensure uninterrupted driving privileges in the Commonwealth.
Sources
[1] https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/licenses-ids/license/renewing
[2] https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/renew-driver-online
[3] https://zutobi.com/us/va-car/driver-guides/virginia-drivers-license-renewal
[4] https://www.iihs.org/topics/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table
[5] https://www.odu.edu/visa/resources/license-id
