How to Get and Renew Your Texas Driver License Through DPS

What the Texas DPS Driver License System Does

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) issues driver licenses and identification cards to Texas residents. You interact with DPS when you want to get your first license, renew an expiring one, replace a lost or stolen card, or change information like your address. DPS also handles commercial driver licenses (CDLs) for truck and bus drivers, and motorcycle endorsements.

DPS does not mail licenses to your home — you must visit a driver license office in person to explore, take a test, or pick up your card. The office locations, hours, and current wait times are listed on the official DPS website at dps.texas.gov. You can also check online whether you are may be able to access to renew by mail or online before you go in.

Key Takeaways

Texas driver licenses are issued only by DPS offices, and you must visit in person for your first license or to renew if you cannot do so online.
You will need proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to explore.
The DPS website at dps.texas.gov shows office locations, hours, and real-time wait times so you can plan your visit.
Many renewals can be done online or by mail if your license is not expired and you have not had a name change or address change in the last 60 days.
First-time applicants must pass a written test, vision test, and photo, and must provide proof of Social Security number or ITIN.

Documents You Need to Bring

DPS requires specific documents depending on whether you are explore for your first license, renewing, or replacing a lost card. For any process, bring one document that proves your identity — a U.S. passport, military ID, certified birth certificate, or a previous Texas driver license or ID card all work.

You also need proof that you live in Texas. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days is acceptable. Bring the original or a certified copy, not a photocopy. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) card or a letter from the IRS showing your ITIN.

If you are renewing and your name has changed since your last license — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Address changes do not require extra documents if you bring current proof of residency.

How to Renew Online or by Mail

If your Texas driver license is not yet expired and you meet certain conditions, you can renew without visiting an office. You are not may be able to access for online or mail renewal if your license has already expired, if you have changed your name in the last 60 days, if you have changed your address in the last 60 days, or if you are under 18 years old.

To renew online, go to dps.texas.gov and select the online renewal option. You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. The fee is paid by credit or debit card. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

To renew by mail, read the DL-44 form from the DPS website, fill it out, and mail it with your current license and a check or money order to the address on the form. Mail renewal takes longer — typically 15 to 20 business days — so plan ahead if your license is close to expiring.

explore for Your First License or Replacing a Lost Card

If you are getting your first Texas driver license, you must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your identity document, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or ITIN. You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, pass a vision screening, and have your photo taken. The written test is offered in multiple languages.

If you have a valid license from another state, you may not have to take the written test again, but you will still take the vision test and have a new photo taken. Ask the DPS office staff when you arrive whether your out-of-state license qualifies you for a waiver.

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, visit a DPS office with your identity document and proof of residency. You do not need to retake the written or vision test. DPS will issue a replacement card with the same license number. The replacement fee is lower than the fee for a new license.

Finding a DPS Office and Checking Wait Times

DPS operates driver license offices in most Texas cities and counties. The official office locator is on dps.texas.gov — search by city or zip code to find the nearest location, hours, and phone number. Many offices now display real-time wait times on the website so you can see how busy they are before you go.

Wait times vary widely by location and time of day. Offices in rural areas and smaller towns often have shorter waits than those in major cities. Early morning and mid-week visits (Tuesday through Thursday) tend to be less crowded than afternoons and Fridays. Some offices allow you to take a number online before you arrive, which can save time.

If the office nearest you has a long wait or limited hours, check whether a different location is open at a time that works for you. DPS offices are spread across the state, and you can visit any office — you do not have to go to the one in your county.

Fees and Payment Methods

Driver license fees in Texas depend on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard driver license valid for five years costs one amount; a license valid for eight years costs more. Commercial driver licenses and motorcycle endorsements have separate fees. The exact fee is listed on the DPS website and on the process form.

DPS offices accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you renew online, you must pay by credit or debit card. If you renew by mail, you must include a check or money order — cash cannot be sent through the mail. Ask the office staff about the current fee when you call or visit, because fees can change.

What Happens After You explore

After you explore in person at a DPS office, your license is usually mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for your permanent card to arrive. Keep this temporary license with you — it is valid for driving.

If you applied online or by mail, your new license will arrive by mail. Track the status of your process on the DPS website using your driver license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. If your license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the DPS office where you applied or call the DPS customer service line.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas driver license if it has already expired?

No. If your license has expired, you must visit a DPS office in person to renew it. You cannot use online or mail renewal for an expired license. Bring your expired license along with your identity document and proof of residency.

What if I moved to Texas from another state and have an out-of-state driver license?

You must get a Texas driver license within 60 days of moving to the state. Visit a DPS office with your out-of-state license, proof of identity, and proof of Texas residency. You may not have to retake the written test if your out-of-state license is valid, but you will take a vision test and have a new photo taken.

How do I change my name on my Texas driver license?

Bring the document that proves your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — to a DPS office along with your current license and proof of residency. You will have a new photo taken and receive a new license with your updated name. If you changed your name in the last 60 days, you cannot renew online or by mail.

What should I do if my license is lost or stolen?

Report the loss or theft to DPS as soon as you can. Visit a DPS office with your identity document and proof of residency to request a replacement. You do not need to retake any tests. DPS will issue a new card with the same license number at a replacement fee, which is lower than the fee for a new license.

Can I take the written driver test in a language other than English?

Yes. The written test is offered in English, Spanish, and several other languages at most DPS offices. Tell the office staff which language you need when you arrive or call ahead to confirm that your preferred language is available at that location.

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.