The Tyler Driver License Office Location and Hours
The Texas Department of Public Safety operates a driver license office in Tyler at 5402 S. Broadway Avenue, Tyler, TX 75703. This is the main location where you can renew your license, get a replacement, take a written test, or schedule a driving test.
Hours vary by day. The office is typically open Monday through Friday, but you should call ahead at (903) 595-8504 to confirm current hours before you go, since DPS sometimes adjusts schedules. Many people find it faster to check the Texas DPS website directly — you can search for the Tyler office there and see real-time wait times at some locations.
Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease works), and your current license or ID. If you are renewing, you may be able to do it by mail or online depending on your situation, which is often faster than going in person.
Key Takeaways
- The Tyler driver license office is located at 5402 S. Broadway Avenue and you should call (903) 595-8504 to confirm hours before visiting.
- You will need your Social Security number, proof of residency, and your current license or ID to complete most transactions.
- Renewals and replacements can sometimes be done by mail or online, which takes longer but means you do not have to visit in person.
- The Texas DPS website shows real-time wait times at some locations, so you can pick a time when the office is less busy.
What You Can Do at the Tyler Office
The Tyler location handles standard driver license transactions. You can renew an expired or expiring license, get a replacement if yours is lost or damaged, change your address, update your name after marriage or legal change, or add an endorsement like a motorcycle or commercial license.
If you need to take a written test or a driving test, you can schedule those at this office as well. Written tests are usually available on a walk-in basis, but driving tests often require an appointment. Call the office directly to find out the current wait time for test appointments.
The office does not handle vehicle registration or title work — that is handled by your county tax assessor's office. For Smith County (where Tyler is located), that office is separate from the driver license location.
Documents You Need to Bring
Texas requires specific documents depending on what you are doing. For any transaction, bring your Social Security number and proof of residency. Proof of residency can be a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and address.
If you are renewing, bring your current license. If you are getting a replacement for a lost or stolen license, you may need to sign a statement. If you are changing your name, bring the legal document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present. Bring their ID as well. The office staff can tell you over the phone if you need anything else for your specific situation.
Faster Alternatives to Visiting in Person
If your license is not expired and you only need to renew it, you can renew online through the Texas DPS website without visiting the office. Online renewal takes about two weeks for your new license to arrive by mail. You can also renew by mail by downloading the form from the DPS website and mailing it in with your documents.
Online renewal is available only if your license is still valid, you have not had any violations or suspensions, and you do not need to change your photo. If any of those conditions do not explore, you will need to visit the office in person.
Some transactions, like getting a replacement for a lost license or taking a driving test, can only be done at the office. Call ahead to ask whether your specific need can be handled online or by mail.
What to Expect When You Arrive
When you arrive at the Tyler office, you will check in at the front desk and take a number. Wait times vary widely depending on the day and time — mornings and early afternoons are often less busy than late afternoons. The office may have a digital display showing your number and which window to go to.
Bring all your documents with you. The staff member at your window will review them, take your photo if you need a new license, and process your transaction. Most renewals and replacements take 15 to 30 minutes once you reach the window, though the wait to get there can be longer.
You will pay a fee at the time of your transaction. License renewal costs vary depending on how long you want the license to be valid — typically $16 to $25 for a standard renewal. Replacements and other transactions have different fees. The office accepts cash, check, and card.
If You Cannot Visit During Regular Hours
The Tyler office keeps standard business hours and does not have evening or weekend service. If you cannot visit during those times, your options are limited. You can renew online or by mail if you are may be able to access, or you can visit a different DPS office if one near you has different hours.
Some larger cities in Texas have multiple driver license offices. Tyler's main office is the one listed above, but you can check the Texas DPS website to see if there are any other locations in Smith County or nearby counties that might work better for your schedule.
If your license has already expired and you need to drive, you should visit the office as soon as you can. Driving on an expired license can result in a traffic citation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to visit the Tyler driver license office?
Most transactions are handled on a walk-in basis, but driving tests usually require an appointment. Call (903) 595-8504 to ask whether you need an appointment for your specific transaction, or check the Texas DPS website for scheduling options.
Can I renew my license online if it is already expired?
No. Online renewal is only available if your license is still valid. If your license has expired, you must visit the office in person or renew by mail. Renewing by mail takes longer but does not require a trip to the office.
What if I lost my Social Security card and do not have the number memorized?
You will need to bring proof of your Social Security number. This can be a tax return, W-2, Social Security statement, or other official document with your number on it. Call the office before you go to ask what documents they accept as proof.
How long does it take to get a replacement license after I explore?
If you explore in person at the office, your replacement license is usually mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can ask the office staff for a temporary paper license to use while you wait for the permanent one to arrive.
Can I take my driving test at the Tyler office if I just moved there?
Yes. You can take your driving test at any Texas DPS office, regardless of where you live. You will need to schedule an appointment. Call the Tyler office or check the Texas DPS website to book a time that works for you.