How to Transfer Your Out-of-State License to Oregon

December 21, 2025
4 Min Read

Welcome to the Beaver State! If you just moved to Oregon, you have 30 days to swap your out-of-state driver’s license for an Oregon one.

The Good News: You probably do NOT have to take a test. Unlike in the past, Oregon now waives the written knowledge test (and the driving test) for most new residents who hold a valid, unexpired license from another state.

This guide explains how to use the DMV2U portal to pre-apply, the difference between “Real ID” and “Standard,” and the exact fees you will pay at the counter.

The “No Test” Waiver Rule: Eligibility for Oregon License Transfers

Before you panic about studying the manual, check if you qualify for the waiver.

You skip the Written & Driving tests if:

  • You are currently a resident of Oregon.
  • You surrender a valid (or expired less than 1 year) driver’s license from another US State, Territory, or Canada.
  • Your previous license is not suspended, revoked, or cancelled.

Who MUST take the tests?

  • Expired Licenses: If your out-of-state license has been expired for more than 1 year, you must take both the written and driving tests.
  • New Drivers: If you are under 18, standard GDL rules apply (Provisional License).

Note: Every applicant, regardless of age or history, must pass a simple Vision Screening at the DMV counter.

Real ID vs Standard Oregon License: $64 vs $94 Fees and Travel Requirements

When you apply, the clerk will ask: “Do you want a Real ID?”

  • Standard License ($64.00): Valid for driving and general ID. Cannot be used to board domestic flights starting May 7, 2025.
  • Real ID ($94.00): Has a gold star in the corner. Valid for flights and entering military bases.

Decision Tip: If you already have a valid Passport, you might not need a Real ID. If you don’t have a passport, you should get the Real ID to ensure you can travel.

Step-by-Step: Pre-Apply Online with DMV2U and Visit Oregon DMV Office

You cannot do this entirely online. You must visit a DMV office to surrender your old card.

Step 1: Pre-Apply Online (DMV2U) Visit DMV2U.Oregon.gov and select “Pre-Apply for a Driver License.”

  • Filling this out at home saves you ~15 minutes of typing at the DMV kiosk.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents Oregon is strict. If you are missing one paper, you will be turned away.

  • Proof of Identity: (Passport, Birth Certificate).
  • Proof of SSN: (Social Security Card, W-2).
  • Two (2) Proofs of Oregon Address: (Utility bill, Lease, Bank Statement, or Insurance policy).
    • Note: P.O. Boxes are not accepted for address proof; you need a physical address.

Step 3: Visit a DMV Office

  • Appointments: Highly recommended. Walk-ins are accepted but wait times can be long (especially in Portland/Metro areas).
  • Bring: Your old license (you must surrender it), your documents, and your Pre-Application confirmation number.

Step 4: Pay & Smile

  • You will pay the fee (Card, Cash, or Check).
  • You will take a new photo.
  • You will receive a paper interim license (valid for driving). Your plastic card will arrive by mail in 2–3 weeks.

Oregon Driver License Fees 2026 (Class C, Real ID Surcharge, and Permits)

Oregon licenses are valid for 8 years.

License TypeFeeNotes
Standard Class C (8-Year)$64.00Base fee for most drivers.
Real ID Class C (8-Year)$94.00Includes the $30 Real ID surcharge.
Instruction Permit$23.00For learners.
Knowledge Test Fee$5.00Only if you don’t qualify for the waiver.
Drive Test Fee$9.00Only if you don’t qualify for the waiver.
Replacement (Lost/Stolen)$26.50Valid for the remaining term.

Oregon Driver Licenses for All: Standard Option Without Legal Presence Proof

If you cannot prove legal presence in the US, you are still eligible for a Standard Driver’s License under Oregon’s “Driver Licenses for All” act.

  • Requirements: You must prove identity and Oregon residency (same as above), but you do not need to prove US citizenship.
  • Restriction: You cannot get a Real ID. You will receive a Standard License.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I keep my old license?

No. Oregon law requires you to surrender your out-of-state license upon issuance of the Oregon card. To prevent identity fraud, the DMV will punch a hole in your old card or retain it.

I just moved here. Do I need to register my car too?

Yes. You must title and register your vehicle in Oregon within 30 days. This is a separate process (usually done at the same visit). You will need a VIN inspection, which can be done at the DMV for $7.00.

Do I need an appointment?

While some offices accept walk-ins (“Standby Service”), appointments are strongly encouraged. Check the Oregon DMV Appointment Scheduler for availability.