If a trip falls outside your current permit's validity window, renewing ahead of time keeps things simple.
Start the renewal a few weeks out, especially around busy travel periods. You'll need your current, valid driver's license and a fresh photo to move the renewal along.
If anything's changed since your last application — name, address, license number — update it as part of the renewal rather than afterward, since mismatched details can cause friction when your document gets checked abroad.
A quick calendar reminder with your document's expiration date goes a long way toward avoiding a last-minute scramble before your next trip.