Wyoming has clear guidelines for driver’s license renewal, including specific rules for senior drivers. Whether you’re planning to renew early or have questions about the renewal process for older drivers, it’s important to stay informed about the rules, especially with new federal requirements coming into play soon.
Renewal Frequency and Eligibility
Renewal Cycle: In Wyoming, all drivers, including seniors, must renew their driver’s license every five years.
Early Renewal: You can renew your license up to 120 days before its expiration date.
Grace Period: If your license expires, you have a one-year grace period to renew. However, driving with an expired license is not allowed.
Renewal Methods
Wyoming offers several ways to renew your driver’s license, including in-person, mail, and online methods:
In-Person Renewal: Every driver must appear in person at least every other renewal. This is to ensure that identification is up-to-date and that a vision test is completed.
Mail Renewal: Drivers can renew by mail once every ten years. The renewal form is mailed out 120 days before the expiration date.
Online Renewal: Online renewal is available unless you used this method for your previous renewal. You must be a U.S. citizen, and your license must either be valid or expired for less than one year.
Special Requirements for Seniors
The renewal process for senior drivers differs based on age. Here’s a breakdown of the renewal requirements by age group:
| Age Group | Renewal Frequency | Required Tests | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 65 and older | Every 5 years | Vision test at every renewal | Mail/online renewal not allowed for drivers 69+ in some cases |
| 70–79 | Every 4 years | Vision test (per new 2025 federal rule) | States may implement differently |
| 80–86 | Every 2 years | Vision + reaction time assessment | New 2025 federal rule |
| 87 and older | Every year | Road test + full medical review | New 2025 federal rule |
Vision Test: Required at every renewal, including for mail-in and in-person renewals.
Medical Review: Starting July 2025, drivers aged 87 and older may face annual road tests and medical reviews under new federal guidelines, although this may vary by state.
Additional Information
REAL ID: Wyoming is compliant with the federal REAL ID Act. During renewal, you can choose to upgrade to a REAL ID, which will be necessary for certain federal activities like air travel.
Renewal Reminders: The Wyoming Department of Transportation (DOT) typically mails a renewal reminder 120 days before your license expires. Be sure to keep your address updated to receive these notifications.
Senior Priority Hours: Some DMV offices in Wyoming offer priority service hours for seniors. Be sure to check with your local office for availability.
What to Bring for In-Person Renewal
When renewing in person, make sure to bring the following documents:
Your current or expired Wyoming driver’s license (if expired, it must be less than one year)
Proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number
Payment for renewal fees
Any required medical or vision documentation
Sources:
1. https://www.iihs.org/research-areas/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table
2. https://www.caregiverlist.com/Wyoming/seniordriving.aspx
3. https://www.thezebra.com/resources/driving/driving-rules-seniors/
4. https://www.yourdriverslicense.org/state/wyoming-drivers-license-renewal/z42bd
