In Missouri, special license renewal rules apply to senior drivers aged 70 and older, reflecting the state’s focus on balancing road safety with the mobility needs of older adults. Drivers 70 and older must renew their licenses in person every three years, unlike younger drivers who can choose between three- or six-year renewal cycles and may qualify for online renewal.
This in-person renewal requirement for seniors is mainly intended to allow the Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) to conduct vision screenings and assess fitness to drive more closely, since age-related impairments such as declining vision or health conditions can affect driving ability. The law emphasizes safety, given the increasing number of senior drivers and data showing a rise in crashes involving older adults in recent years.
For Missouri seniors 70 and older, the renewal fee is currently $21 for a three-year license. Unlike drivers aged 21 to 69, who can opt for longer license periods or renew online, seniors must appear in person at a DOR office to complete renewal. This policy allows officials to require vision tests and ensure that any necessary restrictions or accommodations are appropriately noted on the license.
Drivers younger than 21 and those 70 and older also have shorter renewal intervals of three years compared to up to six years allowed for middle-aged drivers. Additionally, school bus drivers with an “S” endorsement who have reached age 70 must renew their licenses annually and pass a skills test, reflecting the greater responsibility involved.
Missouri’s approach reflects a national trend to monitor older drivers more closely while helping them remain independent and safe on the road. The in-person renewal and vision testing requirements aim to identify seniors who may need further evaluation or driving restrictions without imposing blanket bans or onerous retesting.
Many senior drivers appreciate the balance, although those renewing in person should prepare for potential waiting times and the vision screening process. Missouri’s DOR encourages seniors to bring recent eye exam results if available and to schedule appointments when possible.
In summary, here is what Missouri seniors need to know about driver license renewal in 2025:
Drivers 70 and older must renew their licenses in person every three years.
A vision screening is required at renewal.
The renewal fee for seniors is $21 for a three-year license.
School bus drivers aged 70+ must renew annually and pass a skills test.
Younger drivers (21-69) may renew online or in person every 3 or 6 years, with fees around $20.
License renewal can be done up to six months before expiration.
Seniors are encouraged to prepare for the in-person process by checking DOR requirements and bringing necessary documents.
By enforcing these rules, Missouri aims to maintain senior driver safety while supporting continued independence on the road.
References:
Missouri Department of Revenue, Driver License Issuance and Renewal Rules
Nolo, Missouri Driving Laws for Seniors, March 2025
Nurse Next Door, Eldery Driver License Renewal Fees and Rules by State
Sources
[1] https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/missouri-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
[2] https://www.nursenextdoor.com/blog/6-tips-elderly-drivers-license-renewals
[3] https://dor.mo.gov/driver-license/issuance/real-id/
[4] https://www.iihs.org/research-areas/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table
[5] https://dor.mo.gov/faq/driver-license/general.html
