ABA Family Legal Guide

Automobiles

Your Automobile and the Police

License Renewal

Must I take another examination to renew my driver's license?

You should check with your state division of motor vehicles. Some states permit renewal by mail. Most states require a vision test, and, in some instances, a new photograph for renewal. A few require a written test. Prerequisites for license renewal could include as much as a vision test, a written test, a thumbprint, a signature, and a photograph. Some states impose additional requirements if a driver has amassed a number of traffic convictions or if the driver is of a certain age or has certain physical problems. Some states require a road test for "elderly" drivers (those over a specific age that is set by state law) prior to renewal.