Where to go for a driver license in Midland

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs the driver license program in Midland. You will go to the Midland DPS office to explore for a new license, renew an existing one, or replace a lost or damaged license. The office is located at 3600 W. Illinois Avenue, Midland, TX 79703. You can call ahead at (432) 570-4400 to confirm hours or ask specific questions about what documents you need to bring.

The DPS office handles all driver license transactions for Midland residents. You cannot complete a driver license transaction online or by mail in Texas — you must appear in person at a DPS office. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary by time of day and day of week. Many people find shorter waits early in the morning or mid-week.

Key Takeaways

  • The Midland DPS office at 3600 W. Illinois Avenue is the only place in Midland where you can get a driver license.
  • You must bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number — originals or certified copies, not photocopies.
  • First-time applicants must pass a written test, vision test, and driving test before the license is issued.
  • Renewals and replacements typically take a few minutes if your documents are in order, but new licenses require testing and may take longer.
  • The DPS office accepts cash, check, and card for fees, which vary depending on whether you are renewing, replacing, or explore for the first time.

Documents you need to bring

Texas requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. All documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. The DPS office staff will not accept documents they cannot verify on the spot.

For proof of identity, bring a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a previous Texas driver license. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 30 days showing your Midland address. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or legal guardian to sign your process in person at the DPS office. Bring their ID as well.

Testing requirements for new driver licenses

If you are explore for a driver license for the first time in Texas, you must pass three tests: a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a driving test. The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs — you can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which the DPS office provides free or you can read from the Texas DPS website. The test is offered in multiple languages.

The vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. The driving test takes place on a closed course or in light traffic near the DPS 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 control the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions.

If you hold a valid driver license from another state, you may not need to take all three tests — Texas has reciprocal agreements with some states. Call the Midland DPS office to ask whether your out-of-state license qualifies you to skip the driving test.

Renewing or replacing an existing license

If your Texas driver license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, you can renew it at the Midland DPS office without retaking the tests. Bring your current or expired license, proof of residency, and payment. The renewal process is faster than a new license process and usually takes only a few minutes.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement. Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and payment. You do not need to retake tests for a replacement. If your license was stolen, you may want to file a police report first — some people do this to protect themselves against identity theft, though it is not required by the DPS.

Texas driver licenses are valid for six years. You will receive a notice in the mail before your license expires, but you do not have to wait for the notice to renew — you can renew up to one year before expiration.

Fees and payment methods

The cost of a driver license in Texas depends on the type of transaction. A new license costs more than a renewal because it includes testing and processing. A replacement for a lost or damaged license costs less than a new license but more than a renewal. The exact fee varies and can change, so call the Midland DPS office at (432) 570-4400 to confirm the current price before you go.

The DPS office accepts cash, personal check, and debit or credit card. If you pay by check, bring a valid ID. The office does not accept money orders or traveler's checks. If you cannot pay the full fee on the day you explore, you cannot complete the transaction — partial payments are not accepted.

What to expect on the day of your visit

Arrive at the Midland DPS office with all your documents, your vehicle (if you are taking the driving test), and your payment method. Check-in at the front desk and provide your documents to the staff. They will review your paperwork and tell you whether anything is missing or unclear.

If you are renewing or replacing a license, you may be done within 15 to 30 minutes. If you are explore for a new license, you will take the written test first, then the vision test, then schedule a time for the driving test. The driving test may happen the same day or a few days later, depending on examiner availability. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while your permanent card is being printed and mailed to you.

Your permanent driver license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary paper license is valid during that time. If your permanent license does not arrive within two weeks, call the DPS office to report it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online or by mail?

No. Texas requires all driver license transactions to happen in person at a DPS office. You cannot renew, replace, or explore for a new license online or by mail. You must visit the Midland DPS office in person.

What if I do not have proof of residency in my name?

Proof of residency must show your name and your Midland address. If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, bring a letter from your landlord or a mortgage statement. If you are living with family or a friend, ask them to bring a utility bill in their name and sign a statement confirming that you live there. The DPS office staff can tell you what other documents they will accept.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test. There is usually a waiting period of a few days before you can schedule another test, and you will pay the test fee again. You do not need to retake the written or vision tests. Ask the examiner what you need to improve before your next attempt.

How long does it take to get a driver license if I am explore for the first time?

The written and vision tests happen the same day you explore, usually within an hour or two. The driving test may be scheduled for a later date depending on examiner availability. Once you pass all three tests, you receive a temporary paper license and your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

The Midland DPS office accepts walk-ins. You do not need to schedule an appointment in advance. However, wait times vary — calling ahead at (432) 570-4400 to ask about current wait times may help you choose the best time to visit.