Renewing a US driver's license from abroad? | ExpatWoman.com
 

Renewing a US driver's license from abroad?

439
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 September 2013 - 15:58

Is it possible; has anyone done this? Specifically a Pennsylvania driver's license. My license is up for renewal, but I don't have plans to go home before it expires. I'm checking out the PA DMV's website and it looks like online is an option, but then my mom told me you still need to present yourself in person to have a new photo taken.

Alternatively, does anyone know if you can get an extension on your license's validity?

Oh well, I predict a fun phone call to the PA DMV in my future.
<em>edited by laurelm on 04/09/2013</em>

439
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 September 2013 - 07:08
So, I've got it figured out for any PA residents who happen to come across this: You can go to the PA DMV website and renew online (it's very simple and straightforward, however you will need to pay with a card that has a US-based billing address). After that happens, a picture card will be sent to the address listed on your DL, and once you're back in PA, you can take said picture card to the DMV and get your new photo taken - even if it is after the old card's expiration date. The important thing is to renew online before the expiry date.
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 September 2013 - 22:29
For CA, I have to physically be present at my local DMV to submit the forms, take a vision test and renew photo every 8-10 yrs. Anon, my weight magically stays the same ;)
5452
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 04 September 2013 - 17:18
I was really surprised how efficient the Massachusetts RMV was. My license arrived in the mail a few weeks later. I would think that eventually I'll need a new photo though. I can't look 25 forever!
439
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 September 2013 - 17:00
I did it online with no issues and I did not need to redo the photo but that was for the state of Massachusetts. I know that the state of Connecticut, for example, doesn't even allow online renewals! Why don't you just try to do it online and see if you can get through? Your Mom may be wrong. And if you have any questions, see if your mother can call them so you don't have to pay for the phone call with those ignorant people. Well, that's somewhat reassuring, thanks! I am definitely going to give it a go once I get home and dig up my license. Fingers crossed the PA DMV will be magically efficient for once.
5452
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 04 September 2013 - 16:31
I did it online with no issues and I did not need to redo the photo but that was for the state of Massachusetts. I know that the state of Connecticut, for example, doesn't even allow online renewals! Why don't you just try to do it online and see if you can get through? Your Mom may be wrong. And if you have any questions, see if your mother can call them so you don't have to pay for the phone call with those ignorant people.
 
 

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