How to Get a Texas Driver License or ID Card

What you need to bring to the Texas DPS office

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires you to show proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number before they will issue a driver license or ID card. You do not need all three documents to be the same type — you mix and match from the lists below.

For proof of identity, bring one document from this list: a valid passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, a consular report of birth abroad, or a certificate of naturalization. If you do not have any of these, you can bring two documents that together show your name and date of birth, such as a high school diploma and a bank statement.

For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 30 days that shows your name and current Texas address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts. If you live with someone else and are not on the bill, a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the document, plus their ID, can substitute.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can declare that under penalty of perjury, and DPS will issue you an ID card without one.

Key Takeaways

You must bring proof of identity, proof of residency (dated within 30 days), and proof of Social Security number to a DPS office in person.
A valid passport, certified birth certificate, or military ID works for identity; a utility bill or lease works for residency; a Social Security card or pay stub works for your number.
You can use a notarized letter from a household member if your name is not on the residency document.
DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, and you do not need an appointment at most locations, though some offices now use an online reservation system.
The fee for a driver license or ID card varies by type and age; a standard five-year license costs less than a ten-year license.

Where to go and how long it takes

You must go to a DPS Driver License office in person. You can find the office nearest you on the Texas DPS website by entering your city or zip code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours vary by location.

Some DPS offices now use an online reservation system, which lets you book a time slot ahead of time and skip the walk-in line. Other offices still operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the website for your specific office to see which system it uses. If your office uses reservations and you do not book ahead, you may wait longer or be turned away if the office reaches capacity.

Processing time at the office is usually 15 to 30 minutes once you are called. However, wait times in the office can range from 30 minutes to several hours depending on how busy the location is. Bring all your documents in one visit — if you are missing something, you will have to return another day.

The cost and what type of ID you need

A standard five-year driver license costs $25. A ten-year driver license costs $40. An ID card (for people who do not drive) costs $16 for five years or $32 for ten years. These prices do not change, but you may pay an additional fee if you need a replacement or duplicate card.

A driver license lets you drive a car and serves as identification. A Texas ID card is for identification only and does not let you drive. If you want to drive, you must get a driver license. If you only need an ID for identification purposes — such as boarding a plane or entering a building — an ID card is cheaper and simpler.

If you already have a driver license or ID card and it is still valid, you can renew it by mail or online instead of going to an office. The Texas DPS website tells you whether your card is may be able to access for mail or online renewal based on your age and how long it has been since you last renewed.

If you are under 18 or a new resident

If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must go with you to the DPS office. They must bring their own ID and sign the process. You will still need to bring your own proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number.

If you are a new resident of Texas and have a valid driver license from another state, you can use that license to drive while you get your Texas license. However, you must get a Texas license within 60 days of moving to Texas. If you do not, you may be stopped by police and fined.

If you are moving to Texas from another country and have a valid international driver permit, you can drive with it for up to one year. After that, you must have a Texas driver license.

Special situations: name changes, vision problems, and restrictions

If your name has changed since your last ID was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree. DPS will update your name on your new license or ID card.

If you wear glasses or contacts to drive, DPS will test your vision at the office. If you fail the vision test, you will not be issued a license. You can reapply after you have had your eyes checked by an eye doctor and obtained a corrective lens prescription. Bring the prescription to your next visit.

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely — such as a seizure disorder or severe hearing loss — DPS may place restrictions on your license, such as requiring you to wear corrective lenses or limiting you to daytime driving only. You may be asked to provide a letter from your doctor.

What happens after you leave the DPS office

DPS will mail your new driver license or ID card to the address you provided. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need your card sooner, you can pay an extra fee at the office for expedited mail, which takes 3 to 5 business days.

While you wait for your card to arrive, DPS will give you a paper receipt at the office. This receipt is not an official ID, but some places — such as banks or airlines — may accept it as proof that you have applied. Keep it in a safe place until your card arrives.

If your card does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the DPS Driver License Division by phone or through the Texas DPS website. They can check the status of your process and remail your card if needed.

If you have a criminal record or suspended license

If your driver license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot get a new one until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the DPS Driver License Division to find out the reason for the suspension and what you must do to restore your driving privileges. This may include paying fines, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a suspension period.

If you have a criminal record, it does not automatically disqualify you from getting a driver license or ID card. However, certain serious crimes — such as human trafficking or certain sex offenses — may result in denial. DPS will review your record and notify you if there is a problem.

If you have been denied a license or ID card, DPS will send you a letter explaining the reason. You have the right to request a hearing to challenge the denial. The letter will tell you how to request a hearing and the important date for doing so.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. You can declare under penalty of perjury that you do not have a Social Security number, and DPS will issue you a driver license or ID card without one. You will still need to bring proof of identity and residency.

What if I lost my documents and cannot find them?

You can order a replacement birth certificate from the Texas Vital Statistics office or the state where you were born. You can request a duplicate Social Security card from the Social Security Administration. For residency, ask your utility company, landlord, or bank for a recent statement with your name and address. If you cannot get originals, bring two documents that together show your identity and address.

Do I have to take a written test or driving test?

For a first-time driver license, you must pass a written knowledge test and a driving test. For an ID card, you do not take either test. If you already have a valid driver license from another state and are transferring to Texas, you may not have to take the tests again — ask at the DPS office.

What if I cannot go to the DPS office in person?

Texas law requires you to appear in person at a DPS office to get a new driver license or ID card. You cannot send someone else to explore on your behalf. However, if you already have a valid license or ID card, you may be able to renew it by mail or online.

How do I change my address on my driver license?

You can change your address online through the Texas DPS website if your license is still valid and you are not renewing it yet. If you are renewing your license, you can update your address at the same time. If you cannot change it online, go to a DPS office with proof of your new residency.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.