Driver’s Licenses FAQ: Rules, Enforcement & Renewals (2026)

Who Can Apply for a Driver’s License?

To apply for a driver’s license in the U.S., you generally must be at least 16 years old and meet residency and identity requirements. You must also pass a written test, a vision screening and a behind-the-wheel driving exam. Requirements vary by state. For instance, many jurisdictions allow you to obtain a learner’s permit at 15 years of age.

Non-citizens can often obtain a license as well, provided they show proof that they are here lawfully or comply with their state’s rules for undocumented applications. Several states, such as California and New York, have licensing options for those with varying immigration statuses.

How to Renew an Expired License

Licenses expire. The timeline varies by state, as does the process for renewal. In most jurisdictions, licenses expire every four to eight years. Many states will send a reminder in the mail or offer an online portal to check your renewal deadline. To renew your license, you should:

• Visit your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or similar local office
• Provide proof of identity and residency
• Pass a vision test, in some states
• Pay a renewal fee

Some states allow online or mail-in renewals. However, if your license has expired for too long, you may have to retake the knowledge or road tests. Visit your state DMV website to learn more about renewing options and to check the status of your license. You can find your state’s site via the search tool at USA.gov.

Most states have grace periods for renewing a license. They’re typically between 30 and 60 days. After that, you will be driving without a license, which can have a number of consequences. Your vehicle could be impounded, and you could face hefty fines. In the event of motor vehicle accidents, not having a license could make it impossible to recover losses.

If you’re getting ready to renew your license, you will need to contact the DMV in the area that issued the license. You’ll need to offer proof of residency and identity, and you will likely need to pass a vision test and pay a renewal fee. In some states, you may have to take a new written test or a road test. That’s usually the case if the license has been expired for a while.

Remember that an expired license will likely not be accepted as a form of ID anywhere, so you will need to bring another type of identification to the DMV when you come to renew the license.

What to Bring to the DMV

When applying for or renewing your driver’s license, be prepared to bring the following items:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of Social Security number
• Proof of address
• Your current license, if renewing
• Payment for fees

Some states also require additional documents for REAL ID licenses. Always check your DMV’s website before going to your appointment, and give yourself enough time to gather any essential documents.

How to Replace a Lost or Stolen License

If you lose your license, it could put you at risk of identity theft. If your license is lost or stolen, you should:

• Report it to the DMV
• Consider filing a police report if you suspect theft
• Request a replacement online or in person

If you’re facing ID-related issues after an accident or fraud case, you’ll also want to connect with an experienced attorney.

What Counts as a License Violation?

There is a wide range of different license violations, which vary by state. Here are some common examples:

• Driving without a valid license
• Operating a vehicle while your license is suspended or revoked
• Providing false information on an application
• Failing to notify the DMV of an address change
• Letting your license expire

Many violations result in fines and points on your driving record. You could also face criminal charges for certain offenses. For instance, in certain states, it is a criminal traffic offense to knowingly drive with a suspended or revoked driver’s license.

What Is the REAL ID and Do You Need It?

Legislation surrounding the REAL ID was passed in 2005 and set federal standards for state-issued identification. Beginning May 7, 2025, all air travelers over age 18 will need a license compliant with REAL ID, a U.S. passport or another acceptable federal ID to board domestic flights or enter certain federal buildings.

The good news is that getting a REAL ID is fairly simple. It looks similar to a regular license but includes a star symbol. To get one, you’ll need additional documentation, usually two proofs of residency and a passport or a birth certificate.

There are some alternatives to REAL ID in some states, such as having a military ID or a passport. Certain states offer opt-out options, but keep in mind that you will likely need to provide more documentation than you would otherwise require.

Can You Drive With an Out-of-State License?

Generally, you can drive in any U.S. state with a valid out-of-state license as a visitor or temporary resident. However, if you move to a new state, you must transfer your license. Some states may require you to take a written or road test.

How License Suspensions and Points Systems Work

Most states use a points system to track driving violations. Each infraction adds a specific number of points to your driving record. Accumulating too many points in a specified time frame can result in a license suspension, mandatory driving school, and increased insurance rates.

Some offenses, such as a DUI conviction, can result in a mandatory suspension. States that have implied consent laws can suspend your license for simply refusing to submit to a breathalyzer. In some cases, drivers aren’t even notified right away, which can lead to unknowingly driving on a suspended license.

Depending on where you live, you may also face a mandatory license suspension if you cause an accident that results in serious personal injury due to gross negligence or recklessness.

In some cases, unresolved violations or court issues tied to accidents can even lead to an outstanding warrant with the DMV. To avoid unexpected legal trouble, it's a good idea to run a warrant check if you’re unsure about your current status.

Do You Need a License for a Scooter or Moped?

Licensing requirements for scooters, mopeds, and ebikes vary by state. Mopeds often require a license, registration and insurance. Gas-powered scooters and escooters may or may not need a license to operate, which is usually determined by their top speed or engine size.

However, just because you may not need a license does not mean that you are free from danger or liability. Ebike and escooter accidents can cause life-changing injuries and leave you facing a complicated legal battle.

What Are the New Rules in 2025 for Driver’s Licenses?

As of this year, getting a license requires a REAL ID, and there are new renewal requirements for senior citizens. As of September 2025, those who are between the ages of 70 and 79 will go through a standard renewal with mandatory vision and reaction tests. Those who are between 80 and 86 must renew their license every two to four years.

People 87 and older must go through an annual road test. They must receive medical clearance, too. The goal is to help prevent serious accidents by ensuring that everyone on the road can operate their vehicle safely.

In states like Florida, there has been a significant tightening of the requirements for teens who wish to drive. Those aged 15 to 17 must participate in and complete a driver’s education course before they are eligible to get a learner’s permit. New Jersey has embraced a similar law. Other states are heading that way, too.

Additionally, many states have implemented ways of allowing community members to report unsafe drivers. These actions can trigger a DMV evaluation and could result in the person needing to take further tests.

Let ConsumerShield Connect You With an Experienced Attorney

Do you have additional questions not covered in these driver’s licenses FAQs? Whether you’d like to learn more about driver’s license regulations or were involved in an accident where the other party wasn’t properly licensed, it can be wise to talk to a car accident lawyer. An experienced attorney can also help you in any incident where another party’s negligence or carelessness caused you harm.

ConsumerShield can connect you to a local attorney who can provide personalized answers to driver’s licenses FAQs. They can also represent you in traffic court, civil proceedings, and personal injury cases. Fill out our contact form to get started today.