Where to go for your driver license in Edinburg

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs all driver license services in Edinburg. You cannot get a license from the city government or a local courthouse — you must visit a DPS Driver License office. Edinburg has one office located in the city, and it handles both new licenses and renewals.

The main Edinburg DPS Driver License office is at 1702 W. University Drive, Edinburg, TX 78539. This is the only full-service location in the city where you can explore for a license, take the written test, pass the driving test, and have your photo taken. Hours vary by day, so check the Texas DPS website or call ahead before you go — wait times can be long during lunch hours and late afternoon.

If you cannot reach the Edinburg office or need to know current wait times, you can call the Texas DPS at 1-888-589-6556 or visit the online office locator at the Texas DPS website. Some services, like renewing by mail or online, do not require an office visit at all.

Key Takeaways

  • The Texas Department of Public Safety office at 1702 W. University Drive in Edinburg is the only place to get a new driver license or renew in person.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number — the exact documents depend on whether you are a new applicant or renewing.
  • Texas allows online renewal for some drivers, and mail renewal for others, so you may not need to visit the office at all.
  • The written test and driving test happen at the same office, but you must pass the written test before you can schedule the driving test.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies and digital photos on your phone will not be accepted.

Documents you need to bring

The documents required depend on whether you are getting your first Texas license, renewing an expired license, or renewing a license that is still valid. Texas DPS groups these into three categories, and each has a different list.

For a new driver license, you need proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of Texas residency (such as a utility bill or lease in your name), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). You also need to bring your completed DL 44 form, which you can fill out at home or at the office. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the form and be present.

For renewal of an expired license, you need your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The residency requirement is the same as for new applicants. You do not need to retake the written or driving test unless your license has been expired for more than two years or you have medical conditions that require testing.

For renewal of a valid license, you may be able to renew online or by mail without visiting the office. If you must renew in person, bring your current license, proof of identity, and proof of residency. Again, no test is required unless you have medical issues or your license is marked for mandatory testing.

How to renew without visiting the office

Texas allows some drivers to renew online or by mail, which means you do not have to go to the Edinburg office. You are not may be able to access for online or mail renewal if your license is expired, if you have certain medical conditions, if you have had violations or suspensions, or if you are under 18.

To renew online, visit the Texas DPS website and use the online renewal system. You will need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The fee is paid by credit or debit card. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access.

To renew by mail, read the DL 44 form from the Texas DPS website, fill it out, and mail it with a check or money order to the address listed on the form. Include a copy of your current license. Mail renewal takes longer — typically 3 to 4 weeks — because the form has to travel to a processing center and back. Use certified mail if you want tracking.

Taking the written test and driving test

If you are getting your first Texas license or your license has been expired for more than two years, you must pass both a written test and a driving test. The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It is 50 questions, and you must answer at least 40 correctly to pass. You can take the test in English or Spanish.

You take the written test at the DPS office in Edinburg. Bring your documents and the completed DL 44 form. The test is on a computer, and you get your results when ready. If you pass, you can schedule your driving test for a later date. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period between attempts.

The driving test is also scheduled at the Edinburg office. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. A DPS examiner will ride with you and score your ability to handle the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You must pass the written test before you can take the driving test, but you do not have to take them on the same day.

Fees and payment methods

Driver license fees in Texas are set by state law and do not vary by location. A new driver license costs $33 and is valid for 8 years. A renewal costs $33 and extends your license for 8 years from the expiration date of your current license. If you are 85 or older, renewal costs $16 and is valid for 4 years.

The DPS office in Edinburg accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you renew online, you can only pay by credit or debit card. If you renew by mail, you must send a check or money order — do not send cash through the mail. The fee is the same whether you renew in person, online, or by mail.

If you fail the driving test and need to retake it, there is no additional fee. You only pay once when you first explore or renew. If you need a replacement license because yours was lost or stolen, the fee is $11.

What to expect on the day of your visit

Arrive at the Edinburg DPS office with all your documents and be prepared to wait. Wait times are often 1 to 3 hours, depending on the day and time. Mornings and early afternoons tend to be busier than late afternoons. Bring water and something to read or do while you wait.

When you are called, a clerk will review your documents and may ask you questions about your identity and residency. They will take your photo and your fingerprints. If you are getting your first license or renewing after expiration, you will take the written test at a computer terminal in the office. If you pass and need to take the driving test, you will schedule it for another day.

Your temporary license is printed on paper and given to you the same day. Your permanent plastic license card is mailed to the address on your process within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid for driving until the permanent card arrives.

Special situations and exceptions

If you are a non-citizen, you can get a driver license if you have a valid visa or other immigration document. Bring your passport and immigration paperwork along with the standard documents. Texas does not issue licenses to people without legal presence, but it does issue them to people with temporary protected status or deferred action status.

If you are renewing after a suspension or revocation, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit the Edinburg office in person. You may also need to provide proof that you have completed any required courses or paid any outstanding fines. Contact the DPS before you go to find out what additional documents you need.

If you are changing your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). This counts as proof of identity for renewal purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the driving test in a vehicle that is not registered in my name?

Yes. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition, but it does not have to be registered to you. Many people borrow a family member's car or use a friend's vehicle for the test. Make sure the registration and insurance documents are in the vehicle so the examiner can verify them.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it without paying an additional fee. You can schedule another test date at the Edinburg office, either the same day or on a future visit. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but you must pass the written test first.

How long does a Texas driver license last?

A standard driver license is valid for 8 years from the date it is issued. If you are 85 or older, your license is valid for 4 years. Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license card.

Can I get a Real ID license in Edinburg?

Yes. A Real ID license costs the same as a standard license and is issued at the same office. You will need additional documents, such as proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency. Ask the clerk at the Edinburg office which documents you need to bring for Real ID.

What if I move after I get my license?

You do not have to update your address when ready, but you should do so within a reasonable time. You can update your address online through the Texas DPS website, by mail, or in person at the Edinburg office. There is no fee to change your address.