Where to go for your driver license in Longview

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs the driver license program in Longview. You will go to a DPS Driver License office to get a new license, renew an expiring one, or make changes to an existing license. Longview has one main DPS Driver License office located at 3401 Estes Parkway, Longview, TX 75601.

You do not need an appointment at this office, but you can request one online through the Texas DPS website if you want to reduce wait time. Walk-ins are accepted during regular business hours. The office is typically open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours can vary seasonally, so calling ahead at (903) 757-7600 is wise before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • The DPS Driver License office in Longview is at 3401 Estes Parkway and accepts walk-ins during business hours without an appointment.
  • You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or documentation to verify it.
  • A new Texas driver license costs $45 and is valid for eight years; renewals cost $45 and extend your license for another eight years.
  • Processing takes about 15 to 30 minutes at the office, and your license is issued the same day you explore.
  • If you are renewing by mail or online, you must have a license that expired within the last two years and no changes to your address or name.

Documents you need to bring

Texas requires specific documents before you can get or renew a driver license. Bring one document that proves your identity — a passport, military ID, or a previous Texas driver license all work. You also need one document that proves you live in Longview or the surrounding area, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your current address.

You must also prove your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you do not have the card, you can bring a W-2 form, tax return, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. If you have never had a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one first through the Social Security Administration office before you can get a Texas driver license.

If your name has changed since your last license — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree. Bring your current license if you have one, even if it is expired.

Cost and how long your license lasts

A new Texas driver license costs $45 and is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. If you are under 18, the license costs $30 and is valid until your 18th birthday, then you must renew it. Renewal of an existing license also costs $45 and extends your license for another eight years.

Texas accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at the DPS office. If you are renewing by mail or online, payment methods vary depending on which option you choose. The office does not accept personal checks.

Getting a new license versus renewing

You need a new license if you are getting your first Texas driver license, if your license has been suspended or revoked, or if your license expired more than two years ago. You also need a new license if your name or address has changed. The process takes about 15 to 30 minutes at the office, and you will take a written test, a vision test, and a photo. You will receive your license the same day.

You can renew your license by mail, online, or in person if your current license expired within the last two years and your name and address have not changed. Renewal by mail takes about two to three weeks. Renewal online through the Texas DPS website is faster — you can complete it from home and your new license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks. In-person renewal at the office takes about 15 minutes and you receive your license the same day.

Taking the written test and vision test

If you are getting a new license, you must pass a written test on Texas traffic laws and road signs. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the DPS website. The test is given on a computer at the office, and you get your results when ready.

You will also take a vision test to make sure you can see well enough to drive safely. The test checks your ability to see clearly at a distance and to see colors and peripheral vision. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you will not be issued a license until you see an eye doctor and bring proof that your vision meets Texas standards.

If you are renewing your license and your vision has not changed, you do not have to take the vision test again. If you are renewing and you want to add a restriction (such as corrective lenses required) or remove one, you will need to take the vision test.

What to expect on the day you go

Arrive at the DPS office with all your documents. You will check in at the front desk and receive a number. Wait for your number to be called. When you are called, you will go to a window where a staff member will review your documents, verify your information, and ask you questions about your address and driving history.

If you are getting a new license, you will then go to another area to take the written test and vision test. After you pass, you will have your photo taken. If you are renewing, you may have your photo taken at the window. The staff member will tell you when your license is ready. You will receive it printed on the spot, and you can start using it when ready.

The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, though wait times can be longer during busy periods. If you want to avoid a long wait, go early in the morning or on a Tuesday or Wednesday. Avoid going on Mondays or Fridays when the office is busier.

Renewing by mail or online instead of in person

If your license expired within the last two years and your name and address have not changed, you can renew by mail or online without going to the office. To renew online, go to the Texas DPS website, log in with your driver license number and date of birth, and follow the steps. You will pay the $45 renewal fee by credit card or debit card. Your new license will be mailed to you within one to two weeks.

To renew by mail, read the renewal form from the Texas DPS website or pick one up at the Longview DPS office. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for $45 made out to the Texas Department of Public Safety, and mail it to the address on the form. Your new license will arrive within two to three weeks. Do not send cash by mail.

Online renewal is faster and more find than mail renewal. If you are not comfortable renewing online, mail renewal is a solid alternative, though it takes longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it expired more than two years ago?

No, you cannot renew by mail or online if your license expired more than two years ago. You must go to the DPS office in person and get a new license. You will need to take the written test and vision test again.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Go to the DPS office and tell the staff member that your license is lost or stolen. You will fill out a form and pay $45 for a replacement. You do not have to take the written test or vision test again. Your replacement license will be issued the same day.

Do I need to pass the written test if I already have a Texas license and I am just renewing?

No, you do not have to take the written test if you are renewing a license that is still valid or expired within the last two years. You only take the written test when you get a new license for the first time or when your license has been expired for more than two years.

Can I change my address on my license without getting a new one?

If you change your address, you must get a new license. You cannot just update the address on your existing license. Go to the DPS office with proof of your new address and your current license. You will pay $45 for the new license and receive it the same day.

What if I fail the written test?

If you fail the written test, you can take it again the same day or come back another day. There is no extra fee to retake the test. You can study the Texas Driver Handbook before you come back and try again.