Louisianans to Have 6-Year Span for Driver’s License Renewal

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Louisiana will have a six-year driver’s license.

Currently, drivers must renew their licenses in the state every four years. A bill by Republican Sen. Dan Claitor, of Baton Rouge, changes the renewal period to six years.

Gov. Bobby Jindal signed the bill on June 20. The change kicks in July 1, 2015.

The fee for a basic license will grow from $28.50 to $42.75 to cover the extra years of renewal. Fees for other licenses also will increase, with the amounts varying based on type of license.

Other handling fees also can apply, depending on where the license is renewed.

“Ultimately, it’s going to result in less of a crush at the Office of Motor Vehicles by spreading it out,” Claitor told The Advocate.

A state report this year put waiting times at some OMV offices at an hour-and-a-half because of budget cuts leading to staff reductions.