You have been directed to this page because you are required to visit a DMV customer service center to renew your driver's license or CDL. You have options. Make an appointment Monday to Friday or stop by at your convenience any day we’re open.
For more information about why you must renew in person, refer to the online eligibility and legal presence requirements. If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), see Renewing Your Commercial Driver's License.
You have two renewal options.
REAL ID compliant licenses and ID cards look the same as the credential you may have in your wallet today except that they display a star in the top right corner of the credential. To obtain a REAL ID, you must present the required documentation while applying in person at a DMV customer service center. Visit REAL ID to start the process at home.
Effective May 3, 2031, you will not be able to use a standard driver's license to board a domestic flight or to access secure federal facilities. If you choose this credential, it will display "Federal Limits Apply" to distinguish it from REAL ID compliant credentials. If you have a U.S. Passport or another form of approved identification, you can use that instead.
To obtain a REAL ID, you must present the required documentation while applying in person at a DMV customer service center. However, you may be able to start the process online by determining the documents you will need and pre-filling your application. To start the process, click on Driver's License Renewal on the Online Services page, log into your DMV account, and choose the REAL ID option.
REAL ID is optional. If you don't want one, you may continue renewing your credential as you always have. However, please note that, effective immediately, some military bases may no longer accept non-REAL ID compliant credentials which display "Federal Limits Apply". Please verify identification requirements prior to your visit.
Complete details are available on REAL ID.
We encourage you to renew your license or ID by the expiration date. After expiration, Virginia law requires you to present proof of your legal presence in the United States. For a complete list of acceptable documents or information on obtaining a driver's license or identification card, refer to "Acceptable Documents for Obtaining a Driver's License or Photo ID Card" (DMV 141)
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