Where to go for your driver's license in El Paso

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs all driver's license services in El Paso. You cannot get a license from the city or county — only from DPS. The main office is located at 5059 Montana Avenue, and there is also a satellite office at 9531 Viscount Boulevard. Both locations handle new licenses, renewals, and replacements.

You do not need an appointment at either location, but wait times vary by time of day and day of week. Mornings on weekdays tend to be shorter than afternoons or weekends. The Montana Avenue office is larger and typically moves faster during peak hours.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas DPS operates the only driver's license offices in El Paso, located on Montana Avenue and Viscount Boulevard.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number — the specific documents depend on whether you are getting a license for the first time or renewing.
  • First-time applicants must pass a written test, vision test, and driving test; renewals by mail are available if your license is not expired more than two years.
  • Bring your current license or ID if you have one, because the DPS office will scan it and use it to speed up your process.

Documents you need for a new license

A first-time applicant in Texas must bring three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. The DPS office will not accept originals of some documents — they will make copies or scan them — so bring the actual documents, not photos.

For proof of identity, bring a passport, certified birth certificate, or consular report of birth. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and El Paso address. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form. 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.

If you are renewing a license that is not yet expired, you only need to bring your current license and proof of residency if your address has changed. If your license expired more than two years ago, you will be treated as a first-time applicant and must bring all three categories of documents.

The written test, vision test, and driving test

First-time applicants must pass three tests before receiving a license. The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs — you can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which DPS provides free online and in print at the office. You get two chances to pass; if you fail twice, you must wait one day before trying again.

The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. You will read letters or numbers on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them — the test measures your vision with correction if you normally wear it. If you fail the vision test, you will be referred to an eye doctor and cannot proceed until you return with a passing vision report.

The driving test happens in a DPS vehicle with an examiner. You will drive on local streets and demonstrate basic skills like parking, turning, and stopping. The examiner is looking for safe driving, not perfect driving — minor mistakes do not automatically fail you. You get one attempt per visit; if you fail, you can schedule another test, usually within a few days.

Renewing by mail or in person

If your license expired less than two years ago, you can renew by mail without visiting the office. You will need to mail your current license, a completed process form (DL-44), and a check or money order for the renewal fee. The form is available on the Texas DPS website or at the El Paso office. Mail everything to the address listed on the form, and expect processing to take two to four weeks.

If you prefer to renew in person, bring your current license, proof of residency if your address changed, and payment. You will not take any tests — the office will photograph you, update your information, and issue a new license on the spot. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes to an hour depending on wait time.

If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew by mail and must visit the office in person. You will be treated as a first-time applicant, which means you must bring all three document categories and pass all three tests.

Fees and payment methods

A new driver's license costs $25 and is valid for six years. A renewal costs $25 and extends your license for six years from the expiration date. A replacement (if your license is lost, stolen, or damaged) costs $11. DPS accepts cash, check, and debit card at the office. If you are renewing by mail, you must send a check or money order — they do not accept credit cards by mail.

If you are under 18, the fee is the same, but your license will expire when you turn 21 unless you renew it before then. If you are 85 or older, renewal is free.

What to expect on the day you visit

Arrive with all your documents in a folder or envelope so they are straightforward to find. The office will call you by number, not by name. When you reach the window, hand over your documents and tell the clerk whether you are getting a new license, renewing, or replacing. The clerk will verify your documents, scan or copy them, and enter your information into the system.

If everything is correct and you are a first-time applicant, you will be sent to take the written test. If you pass, you will schedule a driving test (usually within a few days) and receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. If you are renewing and your address has not changed, you will go straight to the photo station, and your license will be printed before you leave.

Bring your phone or a book — wait times can be long, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. The office closes at 5 p.m. on weekdays and does not open on Sundays.

If you have a commercial driver's license or special endorsement

A commercial driver's license (CDL) is required if you drive a truck or bus for work. The process is longer than a regular license and includes additional tests. You must bring the same three document categories as a first-time applicant, plus proof of medical certification (a form signed by a doctor). The written test is longer and covers commercial vehicle rules. The driving test uses a commercial vehicle and is more rigorous.

Special endorsements — such as for motorcycle, hazmat, or passenger transport — require additional tests and fees on top of the regular license. If you need a CDL or endorsement, ask the clerk at the office which documents and tests explore to your situation, because requirements vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a number. You will still need proof of identity and proof of residency. The process is otherwise the same.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can schedule another test, usually within a few days. There is no limit to how many times you can take it, but you must pay the test fee each time. Between attempts, practice the skills the examiner noted — parking, lane changes, or stopping distance.

How long does a new license take to arrive if I renew by mail?

Processing takes two to four weeks from the date DPS receives your process. Mail takes a few days each way, so allow four to six weeks total from when you drop it in the mailbox. If you need a license sooner, visit the office in person.

Can I change my address without getting a new license?

No. You must renew your license to update your address. You can do this by mail if your license is not expired, or in person at the office. The fee is the same as a regular renewal.

What if my documents are in a different name than what I want on my license?

Bring proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DPS office will update your name in the system and issue a license with the new name. This counts as a replacement, not a renewal, and costs $11.