Where to go for your Denton driver license

The Denton Driver License Office is located at 1535 Scripture Street, Denton, TX 76201. This is a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office that handles driver license applications, renewals, replacements, and related transactions for Denton County residents and anyone else who needs service in that area.

You do not need an appointment to visit, but the office does operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Wait times vary depending on the time of day and day of the week. Mornings and weekdays tend to be less crowded than afternoons and Saturdays.

The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon. It is closed on Sundays and state holidays. If you need to confirm current hours before you go, you can call the office at (940) 349-1600.

Key Takeaways

  • The Denton DPS office is at 1535 Scripture Street and serves driver license needs for the county without requiring an appointment.
  • You will need to bring specific documents depending on whether you are explore for a new license, renewing, or replacing a lost or damaged one.
  • Proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number are required for most transactions.
  • You can renew your license online or by mail if you meet certain conditions, which may be faster than visiting in person.

What documents to bring

The documents you need depend on what you are doing. For a new driver license, bring one document proving your identity (such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), one document proving your current Texas residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number.

For a renewal, you typically need only your current driver license and may not need to bring additional documents if your information has not changed. However, if your address has changed, bring proof of residency.

For a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged license), bring proof of identity and residency, just as you would for a new license. If your license was stolen, you may also want to bring a police report, though it is not always required.

The DPS website lists the full set of acceptable documents for each category. If you are unsure whether what you have will work, call the office before you go so you do not make a wasted trip.

Renewing your license without visiting the office

You may be able to renew your driver license online through the Texas DPS website or by mail without going to the Denton office. Online renewal is available if your license is not expired more than two years, you have no address changes, and you have no medical conditions that affect your driving.

Mail renewal follows similar rules. You fill out the form, include your current license and a check or money order, and mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes longer by mail than in person — typically two to three weeks — but you avoid the office visit and wait time.

If you do not meet the conditions for online or mail renewal, you must visit the office in person.

Fees and payment methods

Driver license fees in Texas vary by the type of transaction and how long you want the license to be valid. A standard five-year license costs less than an eight-year license. Replacement licenses (for lost or damaged) cost the same as a new license.

The Denton office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card. If you are renewing by mail, you must send a check or money order — you cannot pay online for mail renewals.

What to expect during your visit

When you arrive, you will check in and receive a number. You will wait until your number is called, then go to a window where a clerk will review your documents, ask you questions to verify your information, and take your photo and signature for the license.

The entire process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the office is and whether your documents are in order. If something is missing or unclear, the clerk will tell you what you need to fix before you can complete the transaction.

Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.

If you need a commercial driver license

The Denton office also handles commercial driver license (CDL) applications and renewals. A CDL requires additional testing and documentation beyond a standard driver license. You must pass a written knowledge test, a skills test, and a medical examination.

CDL appointments are required and must be scheduled in advance through the Texas DPS website or by phone. The process takes longer than a standard license and involves multiple visits if you are explore for the first time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than two years?

No. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must explore for a new license in person at the office, not renew it. You will need to bring proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number, just as if you were getting your first license.

What if I do not have a Social Security card?

You do not need the physical card. You can bring any document that shows your Social Security number, such as a tax return, W-2, or Social Security statement. If you do not have your number memorized or on any document, you will need to contact the Social Security Administration to get a replacement card or number verification before you visit the DPS office.

How long does it take to get my license after I explore?

You receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid when ready. Your plastic license card is mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days. If you need it faster, you cannot expedite it through the Denton office, but you can check the Texas DPS website for other options.

Do I need an appointment?

No appointment is needed for standard driver license services. You arrive during office hours and wait your turn. However, CDL services do require an appointment scheduled in advance.

What if my documents are not in English?

Documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation. Bring both the original document and the translation to the office.