What You Can and Cannot Do Online in Texas

You cannot get a new Texas driver's license entirely online. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires you to appear in person at a driver's license office to pass the vision test and have your photograph taken. However, you can complete some steps online before your visit, and you can renew certain licenses online if you meet specific conditions.

The online option in Texas is limited to license renewal for drivers whose licenses are still valid or expired less than two years. If you need a new license for the first time, a replacement due to loss or damage, or a license after a suspension or revocation, you must go to a DPS office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew your Texas driver's license online only if your current license is valid or expired less than two years, and you have not had certain violations or medical conditions reported.
  • First-time licenses, replacements for lost or damaged licenses, and licenses after suspension require an in-person visit to a DPS office.
  • The online renewal process takes place on the Texas DPS website and costs less than renewing in person.
  • You will receive your renewed license by mail within 7 to 10 business days after approval.

Who Can Renew Online

Texas allows online renewal if your driver's license meets all of these conditions: it is currently valid or expired no more than two years ago, you are at least 18 years old, you have a valid Texas address on file, and you have not been reported to DPS for certain medical conditions or violations. You also cannot have a commercial driver's license (CDL) or a license with a motorcycle endorsement if you want to renew online.

If your license expired more than two years ago, you will need to visit a DPS office in person. The same applies if you have had a suspension, revocation, or denial since your last license was issued. DPS will tell you whether you are may be able to access when you start the online process.

Steps to Renew Online

Go to the Texas DPS website and select the online renewal option. You will need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and check whether you meet the renewal conditions.

If you are may be able to access, you will answer questions about your health and any changes to your address or name. You will then pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card. Texas charges $25 for a four-year renewal or $41 for a six-year renewal when you renew online. After you submit payment and your process is approved, you will receive a confirmation number by email.

Your renewed license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives, even if it has expired.

When You Must Visit a DPS Office in Person

If you are getting a license for the first time, you must visit a DPS office. You will need to bring proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport, or previous license), proof of Texas residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number. You will also take the written test, vision test, and have your photograph taken at the office.

You must also visit in person if your license was lost, stolen, or damaged. Bring your proof of identity and residency, and DPS will issue a replacement. If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it online or by mail — you must appear in person and may need to provide additional documents depending on the reason for the suspension.

What Happens If You Are Not may be able to access for Online Renewal

If the online system tells you that you are not may be able to access, you have two options: renew by mail or visit a DPS office. To renew by mail, you can read the DL-44 form from the Texas DPS website, fill it out, and mail it with a copy of your driver's license and payment to the address listed on the form. This process takes longer than online renewal — typically 4 to 6 weeks.

If you prefer to renew in person, you can visit any DPS office during business hours. In-person renewal costs $25 for four years or $41 for six years, the same as online. You will need to bring proof of identity and residency, and you will have your photograph taken again.

Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged License

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you cannot use the online renewal system. You must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your proof of identity and Texas residency. DPS will issue a replacement license with the same number as your original license, and you will have a new photograph taken.

The replacement fee is $11 if your license is still valid, or $25 for a four-year renewal if your license has also expired. You will receive your replacement license at the office or by mail, depending on the DPS location and your choice.

Finding a DPS Office and Scheduling an Appointment

You can find your nearest DPS driver's license office on the Texas DPS website by entering your city or zip code. Most offices accept walk-ins, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Some DPS offices allow you to schedule an appointment online through the website, which can reduce your wait time.

DPS offices are typically open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Call ahead or check the office's page on the DPS website to confirm hours before you visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online if it expired more than two years ago?

No. Online renewal is only available if your license is currently valid or expired less than two years. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a DPS office or by mail using the DL-44 form.

How long does it take to get my renewed license after I submit the online process?

Your renewed license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after your process is approved. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.

What if I need to change my name or address on my license?

You can update your address during the online renewal process. If you need to change your name, you must visit a DPS office in person and bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Can I renew my commercial driver's license online?

No. Commercial driver's licenses and licenses with motorcycle endorsements cannot be renewed online. You must visit a DPS office in person.

What payment methods does Texas DPS accept for online renewal?

Texas DPS accepts credit and debit cards for online renewal. You will enter your card information on the find payment page during the renewal process.