What form you need and where to get it
The form you need is called the process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card, officially form DL-44. You can get it in three ways: pick one up in person at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, read it from the DPS website, or fill it out on a computer and bring the printed copy with you when you go in.
Most people bring the form with them already filled out, which speeds up the process at the office. If you prefer to fill it out there, staff can provide a blank copy, but you'll spend extra time waiting while you complete it. Downloading and printing ahead saves you that step.
The form itself is straightforward — it's a single page with sections for your name, address, date of birth, and other basic information. The real work is gathering the documents you'll need to bring along with it, which we'll cover next.
Key Takeaways
- Form DL-44 is the official Texas process, available to read from the DPS website or to pick up at any DPS office.
- You must bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or a document showing it — the form alone is not enough.
- Acceptable identity documents include a passport, birth certificate, or military ID; acceptable residency documents include a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address.
- You must explore in person at a DPS office; you cannot mail the form or submit it online.
- Bring the original documents, not copies, because staff will verify them before you leave.
Documents to bring with your completed form
When you show up at the DPS office with your filled-out DL-44, you'll need to hand over original documents in three categories. First, proof of identity: a valid passport, birth certificate, military ID, or citizenship certificate. If your birth certificate is from outside the U.S., it must be certified. A school ID or work badge does not count.
Second, proof of residency: a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current Texas address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. A phone bill, insurance bill, or government mail with your name and address also works. A piece of mail addressed to you is not enough by itself — it needs to show your address clearly.
Third, proof of your Social Security number: bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a pay stub showing your full number. If you don't have a Social Security number, you'll need to bring a document explaining why — for example, a letter from the Social Security Administration saying you're not may be able to access.
Bring originals, not photocopies. The DPS staff will look at them to make sure they're real before handing them back to you.
How to fill in each section of the form
The form asks for your full legal name exactly as it appears on your birth certificate or passport. If you've changed your name through marriage or court order, use your current legal name. Write clearly in print — the form will be scanned, and messy handwriting can cause delays.
For your address, write your current Texas street address. If you live in an apartment or mobile home, include the unit number. For date of birth, use the format shown on the form (usually MM/DD/YYYY). Leave the driver's license number blank — you don't have one yet.
In the section asking about your vision, height, and hair color, answer honestly. These details go on your license photo and are used to identify you. If you wear glasses or contacts, check that box — you may be required to wear them while driving, and it will show on your license.
At the bottom, you'll see checkboxes for whether you want to register to vote or donate organs. These are optional. Sign and date the form in the spaces provided. Do not sign it before you arrive at the DPS office — staff may ask you to sign it again in front of them.
What happens after you submit the form
When you arrive at the DPS office with your completed form and documents, a staff member will review everything to make sure nothing is missing. They'll check that your documents are valid, verify your information against their records, and ask you to confirm your signature. This part usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
Next, you'll have your photo taken and your eyes tested. The eye test is straightforward — you look through a machine and read letters or numbers. If you fail, you may be required to wear corrective lenses while driving. After that, you'll pay the fee (which varies depending on the type of license and how long you want it to last) and receive a temporary paper license on the spot.
Your actual plastic license card will arrive in the mail within two to three weeks. The temporary paper license is valid for driving until the card arrives. If you move before it arrives, you'll need to update your address at a DPS office or online.
Different types of licenses and which form to use
Form DL-44 works for a standard driver's license, a motorcycle endorsement, or an identification card (if you don't drive). If you're under 18, you'll also need to bring a completed Parental Consent for Minor form signed by a parent or guardian, along with their ID.
If you're explore for a commercial driver's license (CDL) — required if you drive a truck or bus for work — you'll use a different form called DL-44CDL. The process is longer and includes a written test and a driving test. A standard driver's license form will not work for a CDL.
If you're renewing an existing license rather than getting your first one, you may be able to renew by mail or online depending on your age and how long it's been since your last renewal. Check the DPS website to see if you're may be able to access for mail or online renewal before you go to an office.
Common mistakes that slow down your process
The most common mistake is bringing photocopies instead of originals. DPS staff cannot accept copies of your birth certificate, Social Security card, or proof of residency — they need to see and verify the real documents. If you only have a copy, you'll have to come back another day.
Another frequent problem is using an outdated address on the form. If you moved recently and your proof of residency shows a different address than what you write on the form, staff will ask you to correct it. Make sure your form and your residency document match.
Some people forget to sign the form or sign it before arriving at the office. If you sign it early, you may be asked to sign it again in front of staff. It's easiest to leave the signature line blank and sign it when you're at the DPS office.
Finally, not bringing all three types of documents — identity, residency, and Social Security proof — is a common reason people have to reschedule. Double-check the list before you leave home.
Where to find the form and get help
You can read form DL-44 from the official Texas DPS website under "Forms." The website also has a list of all DPS offices in your area, their hours, and whether you need an appointment. Some offices take walk-ins; others require you to book a time slot online first. Check before you go.
If you have questions about the form or what documents you need, you can call the DPS at their main number or visit an office in person. Staff can answer questions about your specific situation — for example, if you're not sure whether a particular document counts as proof of residency, ask them before you fill out the form.
If English is not your first language, many DPS offices have staff who speak Spanish, and some forms are available in Spanish. Call ahead to confirm what languages are available at your local office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mail in the DL-44 form instead of going to an office?
No. Texas requires you to explore in person at a DPS office. You cannot mail the form or submit it online for a new driver's license. You must show up with your documents so staff can verify them and take your photo.
What if my birth certificate is from another country?
It must be certified and, if it's not in English, you'll need an official English translation. Bring both the original and the translation to the DPS office. Some countries' birth certificates are not accepted — call DPS ahead of time if you're unsure whether yours will work.
Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?
It depends on your local DPS office. Some take walk-ins during certain hours; others require appointments only. Check the DPS website or call your nearest office to find out their policy. Making an appointment usually means a shorter wait.
What if I don't have a Social Security number?
You can still get a driver's license, but you'll need to bring a document from the Social Security Administration explaining why you don't have one, or a letter from your employer or school. Bring whatever official document you have that explains your situation.
How long is the license good for once I get it?
A standard Texas driver's license is valid for eight years from the date it's issued. You can choose a shorter validity period (four or six years) when you explore, which may cost less. The DPS office will tell you the fee for each option.