Renew your Driver’s License

To renew your driver’s license, you must appear in person at Access PEI to have your photo taken and your new card processed. 

All licence/photo ID cards are now issued with design and security features to help prevent identity theft and fraud. When you renew your licence, you will receive a temporary document which is valid for 60 days. Your new card will be printed in an offsite facility and may take up to 14 business days to arrive in the mail. See Changes to Driver’s Licence and Photo ID Card.

What is the fee to renew a driver’s licence?

For the current fee for a driver’s licence refer to Drivers Licence Fees. 

All licensing and registration fees are prescribed in the Highway Traffic Act Fees Regulations. 

What if my driver’s licence expires?

If your licence has been expired for more than one year, but fewer than three, you must complete a vision test. If your licence has been expired for more than three years you must pass vision, knowledge and road tests. Contact Access PEI to arrange for testing.

What if I am out of province when my driver’s license expires?

If you expect to be out of province at the time your license expires, you can renew as much as five months in advance of the expiry date.

If you are out of the province when your license expires and will be returning within six months you may request a one-time license extension. The extension is valid for up to six months and allows you to drive while you are away or to exchange your license in another jurisdiction.

How do I request a driver’s license extension?

You must complete both an application for driver’s licence  and a client information form. 

Is there a fee to request an extension?

Yes, the fee is 20 dollars.

Why do I have to wait for my new card to arrive in the mail?

Registry of Motor Vehicles uses computerized facial recognition software to prevent suspended drivers or fraudsters from getting a driver's licence or photo ID card.  It takes a few days to complete this process and print your card. 

Why can't I wear eyeglasses or smile in my photo?

Registry of Motor Vehicles uses computerized facial recognition software to help confirm your identity. Eyeglasses and smiling can prevent the facial recognition software from working its best.

How does this new process benefit me?

Road safety is improved - suspended drivers cannot get a new licence by using another person's identity.  

Is computerized facial recognition reliable?

Yes facial recognition software has been used for many years by governments and businesses all over the world. It is a powerful and proven technology.  However, it is not the only tool the Registry of Motor Vehicles uses. Every photo flagged by the system is double-checked by a person who is trained in facial recognition.

Will you share facial recognition data with anyone else?

The Province of Prince Edward Island is committed to protecting your privacy. Facial recognition data will not be shared with outside parties, except when required by court order.

Contact:

For assistance or to request a driver’s license extension,

Telephone: (902) 838-0600
Fax: (902) 838-0610
Email: swat@gov.pe.ca