How to Renew a Motorcycle License in Texas
You are responsible for filing for a motorcycle license renewal in Texas when your current license nears its expiration date. If you plan to operate a motorcycle or vehicle in the state, you must ensure your license is active. It is illegal to operate a motorcycle without a valid motorcycle license and you can be charged with a violation if you attempt it. This violation can lead to consequences, including fines or a license suspension.
To renew motorcycle license credentials, you can complete the process online, by phone, by mail or in person. However, you must qualify for the license renewal and in some cases, you may only be allowed to complete the process in person at a local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. It is important to understand the fees, procedures and documentation required of you before you begin the renewal process. This will ensure you can renew your motorcycle license efficiently. To find out what the process for renewing motorcycle license credentials entails, review the following information.
When to Renew a Motorcycle License in Texas
The date that you need to renew a bike license in TX depends on your age and when you obtained your license originally. Keep in mind, you can obtain an M class license solely to operate motorcycles with no motor vehicle driving privileges. You can also obtain a combination license that allows you to operate both motor vehicle and motorcycles, called a class CM license.
No matter what type of license you hold, your expiration date will be as follows:
- Younger than 18 years of age: Expires on your 18th birthday
- Age 18 to 84: Expires after six years, on your birthday
- Age 85 and older: Expires after two years, on your birthday
If you have a motorcycle or license permit, it expires on your 18th birthday. You cannot renew motorcycle permit credentials and you are expected to convert the permit into a license before you turn 18 years of age.
You can begin the renewal process within two years of your current license’s expiration date. It is possible to renew your license after the expiration date has passed. However, if your motorcycle license has been expired for longer than two years, it can no longer be renewed. You must apply in person for a new license with the DPS.
Eligibility for Motorcycle License Renewal in Texas
You must meet the Texas motorcycle renewal requirements before you are allowed to renew your license. Your current license cannot be revoked or suspended and the date you begin the renewal process must be within two years of its expiration date. You must also be:
- A Texas resident.
- Mentally and physically able to drive a motor vehicle and operate a motorcycle.
- A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Free of warrants and unpaid tickets.
Required Documents
There are specific original documents required to renew a motorcycle license that you may need to bring with you if you must renew your license in person. When you visit an office to renew, you are required to bring:
- One proof of identity, such as your:
- Texas drivers license.
- U.S. passport book or card.
- Military ID.
- Birth records.
- One proof of citizenship or lawful presence, such as: a
- Birth certificate.
- Permanent resident card.
- U.S. Citizen Identification card.
- Proof of Social Security Number (if applicable), such as your:
- Social Security card.
- 10-99 form.
- W-2 form.
Instances When You Cannot Renew Your Motorcycle License in Texas
You cannot renew an M1 license in TX if it is currently revoked or suspended. While you can still attempt to renew an expired license, you must re-apply for a new license if the expiration date has passed by two or more years.
If you are no longer residing in the state or are no longer fit to drive or operate a motorcycle, you are also not eligible to renew your license. If there are current warrants out for your arrest or you have unpaid tickets on your record, you will not be eligible to renew your license until these issues are resolved. You can use the DPS website and your driver’s license number to check on your license status and to see if you are eligible for renewal.
How to Renew a Texas Motorcycle License Online
You may wonder “Can I renew my motorcycle license online in Texas?” since this is generally the most convenient renewal method.
To renew your motorbike license online, you must have completed the renewal process in person the last time you renewed your license to qualify for the online service. You must also:
- Be at least 18 years of age or older.
- Already have a Social Security Number on file with DPS.
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Have your most recent driver’s license or authorization number available.
To complete the online renewal process, follow these steps:
- Visit the DPS online license renewal portal.
- Provide your driver’s license number, date of birth, license audit number and the last four digits of your Social Security Number.
- Provide additional information, including a mailing address, as requested.
- Enter payment information to cover the applicable renewal fees.
- Print your receipt and temporary driver’s license, when prompted.
You can utilize the temporary driver’s license until your renewal license arrives by mail. It will take two to three weeks for the new license to reach you
How to Renew a Texas Motorcycle License by Mail
If you prefer to complete your TX motorbike license renewal by mail, you must follow the steps that are outlined on your renewal notification letter. The letter will provide you with a list of information you must send to the DPS for your renewal, which may include your name, driver’s license number and Social Security Number. You are also required to enclose the renewal fees due, in the form of a money order or check made payable to “Texas DPS.”
Once you have gathered the information requested and acceptable payment, mail these items to:
Texas Department of Public Safety PO Box 149008 Austin, TX 78714-9008
Keep in mind, if you are eligible to renew by mail, you may also choose to renew online or by phone.
How to Renew a Texas Motorcycle License in Person
You may be required to renew your license and renew a motorcycle endorsement in Texas in person if you renewed online, by phone or by mail last time. You can find a full-service office that is close to you by searching through the DPS website.
It is recommended that you visit a Mega Center since these centers have more staff and services available. If you locate a Mega Center close to you, you can use the “Get in Line Online” system to make an appointment online before you go. While an appointment is not necessary, it can ensure a representative can assist you in a timely manner during your visit.
Before arriving to renew your M class license, you should consider completing a renewal application to bring with you. You can also complete one at the office when you arrive. On your visit, you should bring the following with you:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of U.S. citizenship
- Your completed application
- Your Social Security Number
During your visit, you will be required to provide a thumbprint, have your picture taken, pass the vision test and provide payment for the renewal fee.
How to Renew a Texas Motorcycle License by Phone
Before you attempt to renew a TX motorcycle license by phone, you should gather the information that will be requested by the representative. You will need to provide:
- Your name and contact information.
- Your Social Security Number.
- Your current driver’s license number and authorization number.
- An acceptable credit card for the renewal fee, including MasterCard, Visa, Discover or American Express.
When you are ready to renew by phone, call 1-866-DL RENEW (1-866-357-3639) and follow the prompts to begin the process. Upon completion, your renewal driver’s license will be mailed to you within two to three weeks.
Texas Motorcycle License Renewal Costs
You are required to pay a Texas motorcycle license renewal fee before your renewal is processed. If you are completing the renewal process online or by phone, keep in mind you can only use a credit or debit card.
Only checks or money orders can be used for mail-in renewals. If you visit an office to complete your renewal in person, you can pay the applicable fees by check, cash, money order or credit card.
The motorcycle license renewal cost you owe is dependent upon the type of license you are renewing and your age. The fees include the following:
- Age 18 to 84 (Class C with M endorsement): $33 (valid for six years)
- Age 85 and older (Class C with M endorsement): $17 (valid for two years)
- Motorcycle license (Class M only): $33 (expires on date regular license expires)
Texas Motorcycle License Renewal Forms
Note: DMV forms change regularly. The forms provided above are current based on the date of writing.
Sources
- How to Renew Your Texas Driver’s License from Texas.gov
- Driver License Division Fees from Texas.gov
- Driver License FAQs from Texas.gov