Texas Driver's Licenses Are Issued Only by the Department of Public Safety
You cannot get a Texas driver's license from a county courthouse, city hall, or any other local government office. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the only agency that issues driver's licenses in the state. DPS operates a network of driver license offices across Texas, and you must visit one in person to complete your transaction.
DPS also handles renewals, replacements, and changes to your license. If you need a duplicate, want to update your address, or are renewing an expired license, you still go to a DPS office — not a different agency.
Key Takeaways
- The Texas Department of Public Safety operates all driver license offices and is the only place to get or renew a Texas driver's license.
- You can find the nearest DPS office using the online office locator at the DPS website, which shows hours and services available at each location.
- Most DPS offices operate by appointment only, and you should schedule one before you go rather than walk in without one.
- You will need to bring specific documents — a birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, and a Social Security number — so verify the full list before your visit.
How to Find a DPS Driver License Office Near You
The Texas DPS website includes an office locator tool where you enter your city or zip code and see all nearby driver license offices, their hours, and which services each one offers. Not every office handles every transaction — some locations handle renewals only, while others handle new licenses, commercial licenses, and ID cards.
The locator also shows you whether an office is currently accepting walk-ins or requires an appointment. Most DPS offices in Texas now operate by appointment only, especially in urban areas. If you show up without an appointment at an appointment-only location, you will be turned away.
You can also call the DPS Driver License Division at 1-844-DL-TEXAS (1-844-358-3927) to ask about office locations, hours, and current wait times. This line can also tell you whether a specific office has appointments available in the coming days.
Making an Appointment at a DPS Office
If the office you want to visit requires an appointment, you can schedule one through the DPS website. The online system shows available time slots for the next several weeks and lets you pick a date and time that works for you. You will receive a confirmation number and can print or save it to show when you arrive.
Some DPS offices still accept walk-ins during certain hours, but this varies by location and changes based on demand. The office locator will tell you whether walk-ins are accepted at the office you plan to visit. Even if walk-ins are accepted, arriving early in the day increases your chances of being seen without a long wait.
If you cannot make your appointment, you can cancel or reschedule through the same online system. Canceling ahead of time frees up the slot for someone else and prevents you from being marked as a no-show.
Documents You Need to Bring
DPS requires specific documents before you can get a driver's license. You will need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or consular report of birth abroad), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.
If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). DPS will not issue a license under a name that does not match your identity documents.
Bring the originals of these documents, not copies. DPS staff will examine them and may keep them on file, though some documents are returned to you. Ask the DPS office which documents you will get back before you leave.
What Happens During Your Visit
When you arrive at the DPS office, you will check in and wait to be called. A DPS employee will review your documents, verify your information against state records, and ask you questions about your driving history and any medical conditions that might affect your driving. Answer these questions honestly — false statements on a driver's license process are a criminal offense in Texas.
You will then take a vision test (reading an eye chart), a written knowledge test about Texas traffic laws, and a driving test. The written test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. The driving test involves operating a vehicle on public roads with a DPS examiner in the car. If you fail either test, you can retake it, but you may have to schedule another appointment.
Once you pass all tests, DPS will take your photograph and fingerprints and issue your license. Your license is valid for six years from the date of issue (or until age 79 if you are over 73). You will receive your physical license in the mail within one to two weeks.
Different Types of Licenses and Special Circumstances
Texas offers several types of driver's licenses: a standard Class C license for regular passenger vehicles, a commercial driver's license (CDL) for trucks and buses, and a motorcycle endorsement. Each type has different testing requirements and age restrictions. If you need a commercial license or motorcycle endorsement, tell the DPS office when you schedule your appointment so they can direct you to an office that handles those services.
If you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test. If you are over 79, you must renew your license in person every two years instead of every six years. If you have a medical condition that affects your driving, you may need a medical evaluation form signed by your doctor before DPS will issue your license.
Costs and Payment Methods
A standard Class C driver's license costs $33 for a six-year license. A commercial driver's license costs more. DPS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may accept checks, but this varies by location — call ahead if you plan to pay by check.
If you are renewing your license and it has not been expired for more than two years, the renewal fee is the same as a new license. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must explore for a new license and pay the full fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas driver's license online or by mail?
You can renew by mail only if your license has not been expired for more than two years and you meet certain other conditions — DPS will tell you if you are may be able to access when you contact them. Online renewal is not currently available for driver's licenses in Texas. For most people, renewing in person at a DPS office is the fastest option.
What if I lost my driver's license or it was stolen?
You can get a duplicate license at any DPS office. Bring your identity documents and proof of residency, just as you would for a new license. A duplicate costs the same as a renewal. If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to DPS or local police, though this is not required to get a replacement.
How long does it take to get a driver's license after my visit?
Your physical license arrives in the mail within one to two weeks. DPS will give you a temporary paper license at the office that you can use to drive while you wait for the permanent one. The temporary license is valid for 45 days.
Do I need an appointment if I am renewing my license?
Most DPS offices require an appointment for all transactions, including renewals. Check the office locator on the DPS website to see whether the office you plan to visit accepts walk-ins or requires an appointment. If an appointment is required, schedule one online before you go.
What if I fail the written or driving test?
You can retake the test, but you will need to schedule another appointment at a DPS office. There is no additional fee to retake a test. Most people who fail can retake the test within a few days or weeks, depending on office availability.