Where to go for your Texas driver's license

You get your Texas driver's license from a Driver License Division office, which is run by the Texas Department of Public Safety. These offices are located in most counties across the state. You cannot get a license by mail or online — you must go in person to take the written test, vision test, and have your photo taken.

The fastest way to find your nearest office is to use the Texas DPS office locator on their website. You can search by city or zip code, and the results show hours, which services each location offers, and whether you need an appointment. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only; others have Saturday hours. A few locations in large cities stay open until 6 p.m., but most close by 5 p.m.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas Driver License Division offices are the only place to get a state driver's license, and you must appear in person with required documents.
  • You can find your nearest office and check hours on the Texas DPS website using their office locator tool.
  • Many offices now use appointment systems, and booking ahead can cut your wait time from hours to 30 minutes or less.
  • Bring your Social Security card, proof of Texas residency, and proof of identity — the specific documents depend on your citizenship status.
  • First-time applicants must pass a written test and vision test on the same day; you cannot schedule these separately.

What documents you need to bring

The documents required depend on whether you are a U.S. citizen or not. All applicants need proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Texas residency. Acceptable documents for each category are listed on the Texas DPS website, and the list is long — you have options.

For proof of identity, you can bring a passport, military ID, or state ID from another state. For Social Security, bring your actual Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. For Texas residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days. If you do not have a utility bill in your name, a bank statement or insurance policy works.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will also need to bring your visa, work permit, or other immigration document showing your legal status. Bring the original documents, not copies. The office staff will make copies for your file.

How to book an appointment

Most Texas Driver License Division offices now use an online appointment system. Go to the Texas DPS website, select your county, and you will see available time slots for the next several weeks. You can book an appointment for free, and you will receive a confirmation email with your date and time.

If you cannot find an appointment online or prefer to walk in, you can still do so at any office. Walk-in wait times vary widely — some offices have a 30-minute wait, others have a two-hour wait. Appointment holders are usually called before walk-ins, so booking ahead saves time. If you miss your appointment, you can book another one online or walk in without penalty.

What happens on the day of your test

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all your documents. A staff member will check your paperwork, take your photo, and give you the written test. The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs. You must answer at least 70 out of 100 questions correctly to pass. You can take the test in English or Spanish.

After you pass the written test, you will take the vision test. This checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you will be told on the spot and can retake it after correcting the problem — for example, by getting new glasses.

If you pass both tests, you will pay the fee (which varies by license type and validity period) and receive your temporary paper license on the same day. Your plastic card arrives by mail within two to three weeks.

Different license types and what they cost

Texas offers several types of driver's licenses. A standard Class C license is for regular passenger vehicles. A Class M license is for motorcycles. A Commercial Driver License (CDL) is for trucks and buses and requires additional testing.

License fees depend on how long you want the license to be valid. A four-year license costs less than a six-year license. Renewal fees are lower than first-time fees. The Texas DPS website lists current fees for each type and validity period. Fees change occasionally, so check the website before you go to confirm the exact amount.

If you already have a license from another state

If you hold a valid driver's license from another state and you move to Texas, you can exchange it for a Texas license. You still need to take the written test and vision test, but you do not need to take the road test. Bring your out-of-state license along with your other documents.

You have a grace period to exchange your license after you move. Texas law does not set a specific important date, but you should exchange it as soon as you establish residency. Once you have a Texas address, your out-of-state license is no longer valid for driving in Texas.

What to do if you fail the written test

If you do not pass the written test on your first try, you can retake it the same day at most offices. You will pay a retest fee, which is lower than the original test fee. You have unlimited retakes, but you must wait at least one day between attempts.

Before you retake the test, study the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the Texas DPS website. It covers all the topics on the written test. Many people find it helpful to take practice tests online before returning to the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver's license without a Social Security number?

No. A Social Security number is required by federal law for all driver's licenses in Texas. If you do not have one, you must explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a driver's license. This process takes several weeks.

What if I do not have proof of Texas residency?

You need at least one document showing your Texas address dated within the last 90 days. If you just moved and have not received a utility bill yet, bring a lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement instead. If you are homeless, bring a letter from a shelter or social service agency on their letterhead.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring a copy?

Bring the original card. The office staff will make copies for your file. If you have lost your card, bring another document showing your Social Security number, such as a W-2 or tax return.

How long does it take to get your license after you pass the test?

You receive a temporary paper license the same day you pass both tests. The plastic card is mailed to your address and usually arrives within two to three weeks. You can drive on the paper license until the plastic card arrives.

Can I renew my license online or by mail?

Renewals can be done online or by mail if your license is not expired and you meet certain conditions. First-time licenses must be obtained in person at a Driver License Division office. Check the Texas DPS website to see if your renewal is may be able to access for online or mail renewal.