You go to your local Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office

The Texas Department of Public Safety runs all driver's license issuance. You cannot get a Texas driver's license from a county clerk's office, a DMV (Texas does not have one), or any private vendor. You must visit a DPS Driver License office in person for your first license or to renew an expired one that cannot be renewed by mail.

DPS has about 130 Driver License offices across Texas. Most are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended evening or Saturday hours. You can find the office nearest you and check its specific hours on the DPS website at dps.texas.gov — search for "Driver License Office Locations" to get the full list with addresses and phone numbers.

Walk-in service is available at all locations, but wait times vary widely. Some offices have short lines in the morning; others have waits of an hour or more during lunch and late afternoon. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you choose when to go.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas DPS Driver License offices are the only place to get a new driver's license; there is no online issuance or mail-in option for first-time applicants.
  • You can find your nearest office and its hours on dps.texas.gov by searching "Driver License Office Locations."
  • Bring your proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number — the DPS website lists exactly which documents are accepted for each.
  • You will take a written test, a vision test, and a photo at the office, so plan for the full visit to take 30 minutes to two hours depending on wait time.
  • If you are renewing a license that expired fewer than two years ago, you may be able to renew by mail instead of visiting in person.

What documents to bring to the DPS office

You need three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The DPS website lists all accepted documents for each category, and the rules differ slightly depending on whether you are a Texas resident, a non-resident, or a commercial driver's license applicant.

For proof of identity, a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, or a military ID card are the most common choices. A foreign passport works if you also bring a visa or travel document. For proof of residency, a recent utility bill, a lease agreement, or a bank statement with your current address will work. For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form.

Bring originals, not copies. The DPS office staff will examine them and may make copies for your file. If you do not have one of the required documents, the DPS website shows alternative documents that are accepted — do not assume you are ineligible without checking the full list first.

The written test and vision screening at the office

You will take a written test on Texas traffic laws and road signs at the DPS office. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You can study using the official Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the DPS website. Many people study it for a few hours the night before and pass on their first try; others take it two or three times.

The vision screening is a straightforward machine test — you look through a device and read letters or numbers. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them to the test. If you fail the vision test, you will be told on the spot and can retake it after a waiting period, or you may need to bring a letter from an eye doctor saying you are safe to drive.

After you pass both tests, the office will take your photo for the license. The photo is taken the same day, so you will see it before you leave. If you strongly dislike it, you can request a retake, though the office may charge a small fee.

How long it takes to get your license after your visit

Your temporary paper license is printed at the office before you leave. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive while your permanent plastic card is being made. The permanent card is mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days in most cases, though it can take longer during high-volume periods.

If you do not receive your permanent license within two weeks, call the DPS office where you applied. They can check the status and reissue if needed. Keep your temporary license until the plastic card arrives.

Renewing by mail if your license recently expired

If your driver's license expired fewer than two years ago, you may renew by mail without visiting an office. You cannot renew by mail if your license has been expired for two years or longer — you must visit in person and retake the written and vision tests.

To renew by mail, you fill out an process form (available on the DPS website), include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail both to the address listed on the form. The process takes about two weeks. If you need to renew in person because your license has been expired too long, you will follow the steps above for a new license.

What to expect on the day you visit

Arrive with all your documents in a folder or envelope so they are straightforward to hand over. Bring your Social Security number memorized or written down. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in — the photo will be on your license for several years.

When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. You will wait until your number is called. At the window, the staff member will review your documents, ask you to sign the process, collect the fee (currently $33 for a five-year license for most adults, though this varies by age and license type), and direct you to the testing area.

After you pass the written and vision tests, you will be directed to the photo station. Once your photo is taken, you will return to the window to receive your temporary license and a receipt. The entire process from check-in to leaving usually takes 30 minutes to two hours depending on how busy the office is.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make an appointment instead of walking in?

Some DPS offices offer appointment scheduling through their website or by phone, but not all locations do. Check your local office's page on dps.texas.gov to see if appointments are available. Even with an appointment, you may wait, but it often reduces the total time spent at the office.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day at most offices, though you may have to wait and pay the test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Many people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the handbook more carefully.

Do I need to bring my old license if I have one?

Bring it if you have it, but it is not required. The DPS office can look up your record in their system. If you bring an old license, the staff will collect it and destroy it.

What if I moved recently and my documents show an old address?

Bring a document that shows your new address as your proof of residency — a utility bill or lease in your new name works best. The DPS will update your address in their system during your visit.

Can someone else pick up my license for me after I explore?

No. Your license is mailed to the address you provide at the office. You cannot have someone else pick it up in person. If you need it faster, some offices offer expedited mail service for an additional fee.