You can get your Texas driver's license at a Department of Public Safety office, and you must go in person for your first license

Texas issues driver's licenses through the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and you cannot complete the entire process online or by mail. You must visit a DPS office in person to have your photo taken, pass the vision and written tests, and hand over your documents. The state has about 130 DPS offices across Texas, so there is usually one within reasonable distance of where you live or work.

Your first visit is the longest one. You will need to bring specific documents, pass a written test about traffic laws, pass a vision screening, and have your photo taken. The whole appointment usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, though wait times vary by location and time of day. If you already have a valid license from another state, the process is faster because you skip the written test.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit a DPS office in person — you cannot get your first Texas driver's license online or by mail.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of lawful presence in the United States.
  • You will take a written test about traffic laws, a vision test, and have your photo taken at the office.
  • DPS offices are open during business hours on weekdays and some Saturdays; check your local office's schedule before you go.
  • If you already hold a valid driver's license from another state, you do not have to take the written test again.

Finding the DPS office nearest you

The Texas DPS website has a tool that shows you every office location, hours, and phone number. Go to the DPS Driver License page and use the office locator, or call 1-844-DPS-TEXAS (1-844-377-8329) to find the office closest to your home or workplace. Some offices are busier than others — offices in large cities often have longer waits, while smaller towns may be faster.

Many DPS offices now let you reserve a time slot online before you arrive. Check your local office's page to see if appointments are available. If your office does not offer online reservations, you can call ahead to ask about typical wait times and the best time to visit.

Documents you must bring to your appointment

Texas requires four categories of documents. You need proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), proof of identity (a passport, military ID, or birth certificate), proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement with your name and current address), and proof of lawful presence in the United States (a passport, birth certificate, or immigration document).

Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies usually do not work. If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change. If you do not have all four categories, the DPS office will tell you what is missing and you will have to return another day.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive, you will check in and wait for your number to be called. A DPS employee will review your documents, ask you questions about your address and driving history, and take your photo. You will then go to a testing station to take the written test about Texas traffic laws. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You will also have your vision checked at the office.

If you pass the written test and vision screening, you will pay the fee and receive your temporary license on the spot. Your permanent card will arrive by mail within two weeks. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another time — there is no limit on how many times you can try.

Fees and payment methods

A Texas driver's license costs between $16 and $32 depending on how long you want it to be valid. A four-year license costs less than a six-year license. DPS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may have ATMs on site if you need cash, but it is safer to bring payment with you.

If you are renewing a license or replacing a lost one, the fee is different. Ask the DPS office about the exact cost for your situation when you call or visit.

Office hours and what to expect on busy days

Most DPS offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and some are open on Saturday mornings. Hours vary by location, so check your local office's schedule on the DPS website or call ahead. Offices are usually busiest on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturday mornings, and slowest on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons.

If you go during a busy time, you may wait 45 minutes to two hours. If you can visit on a weekday afternoon, you will likely wait much less. Some offices close for lunch, so calling ahead to confirm hours can save you a wasted trip.

If you already have a license from another state

You do not have to take the written test again if you hold a valid driver's license from another state. You will still need to bring all four document categories, have your photo taken, and pass the vision screening. The process is faster because you skip the written exam. Bring your out-of-state license with you to the appointment.

If your out-of-state license has expired, you will have to take the written test. Texas treats an expired license as if you have never held one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make an appointment online or do I have to walk in?

Many DPS offices now let you reserve a time slot on their website. Check your local office's page to see if online reservations are available. If your office does not offer them, you can walk in during business hours, though you may wait longer than if you had reserved a slot.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day at most offices, or you can come back another time. There is no limit on how many times you can try. Many people study the Texas Driver Handbook (available free on the DPS website) between attempts.

How long does it take to get my permanent license card in the mail?

Your permanent card usually arrives within two weeks of your visit. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use to drive while you wait for the card. If your card does not arrive after three weeks, call the DPS office where you took the test.

Do I need an appointment if I go to a DPS office?

It depends on the office. Some offices require appointments and will not serve walk-ins. Others accept both. Check your local office's website or call ahead to find out their policy before you go.

What if I cannot find all my documents before my appointment?

Do not go to the appointment if you are missing documents. Call the DPS office and ask which documents you can substitute or where to get the ones you need. Going without the right documents will waste your time and you will have to return another day.