What you need to get a Texas driver license
Texas issues driver licenses through the Department of Public Safety (DPS). To get one, you must visit a DPS driver license office in person, bring specific documents, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay a fee. The process takes multiple visits — you cannot complete it all in one day.
The state requires you to prove your identity, Social Security number, Texas residency, and lawful presence in the United States. Which documents work depends on your citizenship status and whether you have a passport or other federal ID. Texas also requires a vision test and a photograph at the office.
If you already have a valid driver license from another state, you can exchange it for a Texas license without retaking the written and driving tests, though you still must visit an office and pay the fee.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS driver license office in person with original documents proving identity, Social Security number, residency, and lawful presence.
- The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free Texas Driver Handbook available on the DPS website.
- The driving test is performed by a DPS examiner and tests your ability to operate the vehicle safely on public roads.
- Texas driver licenses are valid for six years for most adults, and renewal can be done by mail or online if you have not had certain violations.
Documents you must bring to the DPS office
Bring your original documents — photocopies are not accepted. You need one document proving your identity (passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate), one document proving your Social Security number (Social Security card or W-2 form), and one document proving you live in Texas (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days).
If you are a U.S. citizen, a passport or certified birth certificate satisfies the identity requirement. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must bring your passport and immigration documents showing lawful presence — this includes a green card, employment authorization document (EAD), or visa. Texas does not issue licenses to people without lawful presence.
Bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you do not, bring a W-2, 1099, or tax return showing your full Social Security number. A bank statement with your Social Security number also works.
For proof of residency, the document must show your current name and address and be dated within 60 days of your visit. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill all work. A bank statement or insurance document also works if it shows your address.
The written test and how to study for it
The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions covering Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish, and you can request a reader or other accommodations through the DPS office.
The Texas Driver Handbook is free and available as a PDF on the DPS website at dps.texas.gov. It covers everything on the test. You can also pick up a printed copy at any DPS office. Most people study the handbook for a few days before taking the test.
You do not need to pass the written test on your first visit. If you fail, you can schedule another test appointment. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though you pay a fee each time.
The driving test and what examiners look for
The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. A DPS examiner sits in the passenger seat while you drive on public roads. The examiner watches how you handle the vehicle, obey traffic signals, park, and respond to other drivers and pedestrians.
You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, horn, and mirrors. The examiner will check these before you drive. You cannot use a vehicle with safety defects.
Common reasons people fail include rolling through stop signs, improper lane changes, hitting the curb while parking, speeding, and not checking mirrors. If you fail, you can schedule another test. There is no limit to retakes, though you pay a fee each time.
Fees and how long the process takes
The fee for a new driver license in Texas varies by the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard six-year license costs around $60 to $70 for most adults. Fees are higher for commercial licenses and lower for certain groups like seniors. Exact fees change, so check the DPS website or call your local office before you visit.
Payment methods vary by office — most accept cash, debit, and credit cards, but some accept only cash. Call ahead to confirm what your local office takes.
The entire process typically takes four to eight weeks from your first visit to receiving your license in the mail. You get a temporary paper license at the office after you pass the driving test, and the plastic card arrives by mail within two to three weeks. During this time, the paper license is valid for driving.
How to schedule an appointment and find your local office
You can schedule an appointment online through the DPS website at dps.texas.gov or by calling 1-844-DPS-TXDL (1-844-377-8935). Walk-ins are accepted at some offices, but wait times can be several hours. Scheduling ahead is faster.
The DPS website has a tool to find the office nearest you and see current wait times. Offices are located in most cities and many smaller towns. Hours vary by location — most are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and some have limited Saturday hours.
When you schedule, you will choose whether you want to take the written test, the driving test, or both. If you are taking the driving test, you must bring the vehicle you will drive during the test to your appointment.
Renewing or replacing your Texas driver license
Texas driver licenses are valid for six years. You can renew by mail or online if you have not had certain violations or changes to your name or address. The DPS sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before your license expires.
If you lost your license or it was stolen, you can get a replacement at any DPS office. Bring your documents the same way you would for a new license. A replacement license costs less than a new license.
If your name changed due to marriage or court order, you must visit an office in person and bring the document showing the change (marriage certificate or court order). You do not have to retake the written or driving test.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Texas driver license if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. Texas law requires a Social Security number to issue a driver license. If you do not have one and are a U.S. citizen, you can request one from the Social Security Administration. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you must have lawful presence and a Social Security number to get a Texas license.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can schedule another test appointment. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it. Each retake costs a fee. Many people pass on their second or third attempt after more practice.
How long is the temporary paper license good for?
The temporary paper license you receive at the office after passing the driving test is valid for 45 days. Your plastic license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. If it does not arrive within 45 days, contact the DPS office where you tested.
Can I renew my license online?
Yes, if you have not had certain violations, your name and address have not changed, and your license is not expired by more than two years. You can renew online at dps.texas.gov. The fee is lower for online renewal than for in-person renewal.
What if I moved to Texas from another state?
You must get a Texas license within 60 days of moving. You can exchange your out-of-state license for a Texas license without retaking the written and driving tests if your out-of-state license is still valid. Bring your out-of-state license and your Texas residency documents to a DPS office.