Where to get your driver license in Hereford

Hereford has one Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License office located at 806 W. Park Avenue. This is the only place in Hereford where you can take the written test, vision test, and photo for a new driver license or renew an existing one. The office is open Monday through Friday, though hours vary by day — call ahead at (806) 364-2371 to confirm current hours before you go.

If you cannot reach the Hereford office or need an appointment, you can also visit the DPS office in Amarillo, which is about 45 minutes away. However, the Hereford location is your closest option and handles all the same transactions.

Key Takeaways

  • The Hereford DPS Driver License office is at 806 W. Park Avenue and is open weekdays only.
  • You will need a Social Security number, proof of Texas residency, and proof of identity to explore for a new license.
  • The office can issue a license the same day if you pass the tests, though processing times vary.
  • You can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you have not had certain violations, but new licenses and most renewals require an in-person visit.

Documents you need to bring

Texas requires specific documents before the DPS will issue a driver license. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, such as a W-2 or tax return. You also need proof of identity — a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate all work. If you do not have a passport, a birth certificate is the most common choice.

You must also prove you live in Texas. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address will work. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. If you have moved recently and your other documents show an old address, bring a second proof of residency to avoid delays.

If you are renewing a license that is not yet expired, you may not need all these documents — bring your current license and ask the staff what else they need when you arrive.

What to expect during your visit

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and tell staff whether you are explore for a new license, renewing, or replacing a lost one. You will fill out an process form (DL-44 for a new license, DL-43 for renewal). Staff will verify your documents, take your photo, and conduct a vision test at the office.

Next, you will take the written test on a computer. The test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs. You need to pass with a score of at least 70 percent. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period between attempts in Texas.

After you pass the written test, you will take a driving test with a DPS examiner. This test happens on local roads around Hereford and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you pass, you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your plastic card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.

Costs and payment methods

A new driver license costs $32 in Texas. A renewal costs $32 if your license is not expired, or $48 if it is expired and you are explore for a new one. A replacement for a lost or stolen license costs $11. The Hereford DPS office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards — call ahead if you want to confirm which cards they take.

Fees do not include the cost of documents you may need to obtain, such as a certified birth certificate from the county clerk's office. If you need a birth certificate, the Deaf Smith County Clerk's office in Hereford can issue one, but there is a separate fee for that service.

If you fail the driving test

You can retake the driving test as many times as you need, but you must wait at least one day between attempts. Each retake costs $7. Many people pass on the second or third attempt, so do not assume one failure means you cannot get a license.

If you fail multiple times, consider taking a defensive driving course. Some insurance companies offer discounts for completing one, and the course may help you understand the rules the examiner is testing. The DPS office staff can point you toward courses offered in Hereford or nearby.

Renewing by mail instead of in person

If your license is not expired and you have not had certain violations (such as a DWI or major traffic offense), you may renew by mail without visiting the office. You will need to request a renewal form from the DPS website or call the Hereford office. Mail your completed form, fee, and a copy of your current license to the address provided.

Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks. You cannot renew by mail if your license has been suspended, if you have changed your name, or if you are over 79 years old — those situations require an in-person visit to the Hereford office.

What to do if you cannot visit during office hours

The Hereford DPS office is only open weekdays. If you work during those hours or have another scheduling conflict, you have a few options. You can request time off work to visit — many employers allow this for government transactions. You can also visit the Amarillo DPS office on a weekend if it is open, though you should call ahead to confirm weekend hours.

If you need a replacement license quickly (for example, your license was lost or stolen), the Hereford office can usually issue a temporary paper license the same day, which is valid for driving while you wait for the plastic card to arrive by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the driving test in a vehicle that is not mine?

Yes, as long as the vehicle is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name. Make sure the owner gives you permission and that you have proof of insurance in the vehicle before you arrive for your test.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day at no extra cost. There is no waiting period between attempts in Texas. If you fail again, you can come back another day and try as many times as you need until you pass.

How long does it take to get a plastic driver license after I pass the test?

You will receive a temporary paper license on the day you pass, which is valid for driving. Your plastic card arrives by mail within one to two weeks. If it takes longer, call the Hereford DPS office to check the status.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Hereford DPS office?

Appointments are not required, but the office may have wait times during busy hours. Call (806) 364-2371 to ask about current wait times before you go, or ask if appointments are available.

What if my birth certificate is from another state?

A birth certificate from any U.S. state works as proof of identity for a Texas driver license. Make sure it is a certified copy with an official seal. If you have a certified copy, bring it to the Hereford DPS office along with your other documents.