A method for improving accuracy of a time estimate used in digital rights management (DRM) license validation is disclosed. In one embodiment, a memory device receives a request to validate a DRM license stored on the memory device, wherein the DRM license is associated with a time stamp update policy (TUP) that specifies when a new time stamp is needed. Before attempting to validate the DRM license, the memory device determines if a new time stamp is needed based on the TUP associated with the DRM license. If a new time stamp is needed, the memory device receives the new time stamp and then attempts to validate the DRM license using a time estimate based on the new time stamp. Other embodiments are disclosed, and each of the embodiments can be used alone or together in combination.