Fort Worth has three locations where you can handle driver license transactions

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs the driver license offices in Fort Worth. You have three physical locations to choose from, each handling the same services but with different hours and wait times. The main office is downtown, and two satellite offices operate in other parts of the city. All three can issue new licenses, renewals, replacements, and address changes.

Before you go to any location, check what documents you need for your specific transaction. A new license requires different paperwork than a renewal, and a replacement (for a lost or stolen license) requires different proof again. The DPS website lists these requirements by transaction type, and bringing the wrong documents means a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • Fort Worth has three DPS driver license offices: one downtown and two satellite locations, all offering the same services but with different hours and typical wait times.
  • You must bring specific documents that vary by whether you are renewing, replacing, or getting a new license — check the DPS website before you go.
  • The downtown location typically has longer waits than the satellite offices, especially during lunch hours and late afternoon.
  • You can renew your license online or by mail if you meet certain conditions, which avoids a trip to the office entirely.
  • Bring proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement) and your Social Security number or ITIN to any location.

The three Fort Worth DPS driver license offices and their locations

The main downtown office is at 1601 Jones Street, Fort Worth, TX 76102. This is the largest location and handles all transaction types, but it also draws the heaviest foot traffic. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. (closed Sundays and state holidays).

The north-side satellite office is at 4200 Bryant Irvin Road North, Fort Worth, TX 76107. This location typically has shorter waits than downtown and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed weekends and state holidays).

The east-side satellite office is at 2851 Meacham Boulevard, Fort Worth, TX 76137. This location also tends to have shorter waits and keeps the same hours as the north-side office: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (closed weekends and state holidays).

What documents you need depends on your transaction type

For a new license, bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of Social Security number (Social Security card or tax return), proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and proof of lawful presence (passport, birth certificate, or visa). You also need to pass a vision test and provide a signature.

For a renewal, bring your current license and proof of residency. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you may need to provide additional documents — check the DPS website or call ahead to confirm. Some renewals can be done online or by mail if you meet age and status requirements, which saves you a trip.

For a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged), bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You do not need to retake the vision test or written exam unless your license was suspended or revoked.

Online and mail renewal options can save you a trip

If your license is current and you are between 18 and 84 years old, you may renew online through the DPS website without visiting an office. Online renewal takes about 7 to 10 business days and costs less than an in-person renewal. You will receive your new license by mail.

Mail renewal is also available for some drivers. You can request a renewal form from the DPS website, fill it out, and mail it in with your current license and a check or money order. Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks by mail, so plan ahead if you need your license by a specific date.

You cannot renew online or by mail if your license has been suspended, revoked, or expired for more than two years. You also cannot use these methods if you need to change your name, address, or other information on your license — those changes require an in-person visit.

Typical wait times and the best times to visit

Wait times vary by location and time of day. The downtown office typically has the longest waits, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and after 3 p.m. The satellite offices usually have shorter waits, but they close at 5 p.m. on weekdays and do not open on weekends.

Early morning (right when the office opens at 8 a.m.) and mid-morning (around 9 to 10 a.m.) tend to have the shortest waits. Avoid lunch hours and late afternoon if you want to minimize time in the office. Mondays and Fridays are typically busier than mid-week days.

The DPS does not publish real-time wait times for Fort Worth locations, so you cannot check online before you go. If you want to avoid a long wait, arriving early in the morning at a satellite office is your best bet.

What to bring and what to expect during your visit

Bring all required documents in original form — photocopies are not accepted for proof of identity or residency. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) and documentation of your immigration status.

You will be asked to take a new photo, pass a vision screening, and sign your new license. If you wear glasses or contacts for driving, wear them during the vision test. The vision test is straightforward and most people pass on the first try. If you fail, you will be asked to see an eye doctor and return with a corrective lens restriction form.

Payment is by cash, check, or debit/credit card. Fees vary by transaction type: a new license costs more than a renewal, and a replacement falls in between. The DPS website lists current fees, which change occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make an appointment at a Fort Worth DPS office?

The DPS does not offer appointment scheduling for driver license transactions in Fort Worth. You must arrive during business hours and wait your turn. Arriving early in the morning typically means a shorter wait than afternoon visits.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can use an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead. Bring your ITIN documentation and proof of your immigration status (visa, passport, or work authorization). The office will process your license using your ITIN.

How long does it take to get a new license after my visit?

If you pass the vision test and bring all required documents, you receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can drive on the temporary license until the permanent one arrives.

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

No, you cannot renew by mail or online if your license has been expired for more than two years. You must visit an office in person and may need to retake the written exam and vision test. Call the downtown office at the number on the DPS website to confirm what documents you need.

What if I moved to Fort Worth from another state?

You need to get a Texas license within 60 days of moving. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency in Texas (utility bill, lease, or bank statement). You will take a new vision test and written exam.