Where to go for your driver's license in Garland

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs the driver's license system in Texas. In Garland, you'll visit a DPS Driver License office to get a new license, renew an expiring one, or update your information. Garland has one main DPS office located at 2610 West Avenue J, where you can handle most driver's license transactions in person.

You do not need an appointment at this location, but you can request one online through the Texas DPS website if you prefer to reduce wait time. Walk-ins are accepted during business hours, which are typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours may vary seasonally. It's worth calling ahead at the Garland office to confirm current hours before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • The DPS Driver License office in Garland is at 2610 West Avenue J, and you can visit without an appointment during business hours.
  • You'll need to bring your Social Security number, proof of residency (like a utility bill or lease), and proof of identity (like a passport or birth certificate).
  • A standard driver's license costs around $30 to $50 depending on whether you're getting a new license or renewing, though fees change periodically.
  • Processing takes a few minutes in the office, but your physical license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If you're under 18, you'll need a parent or guardian present, and you must pass a written test and vision screening.

Documents you need to bring

Texas requires you to prove three things: who you are, where you live, and your Social Security number. Bring one document from each category below.

Proof of identity: A U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, military ID, or state ID card. If you're renewing and your current license is not expired, you may not need a separate identity document.

Proof of residency: A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current Garland address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency in Texas.

Social Security number: Bring your Social Security card, or be prepared to provide the number verbally. If you don't have a card, you can request one from the Social Security Administration before your DPS visit.

Getting a license for the first time

If you've never held a Texas driver's license, you'll take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, pass a vision screening, and have your photograph taken. The written test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You can study using the Texas Driver's Handbook, which the DPS office provides free or you can read from the Texas DPS website.

You'll also need to bring proof that you've completed a driver education course if you're under 25. If you're 18 or older and have never taken driver's education, you may be waived from this requirement, but ask the DPS office staff when you arrive. The vision screening checks your eyesight and color blindness; if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.

Minors (under 18) must have a parent or guardian present with a valid ID. You'll also need to pass a driving test with a DPS examiner, which happens at the same office. Schedule the driving test separately after you pass the written test.

Renewing your current license

If your Texas license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, renewal is simpler than getting a new license. You won't take a written test or driving test. You'll still need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number, plus your current license.

Renewal costs less than a new license and takes the same amount of time in the office. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If your address has changed since your last license, bring proof of your new Garland address and update it during the renewal.

If your license expired more than two years ago, you'll need to explore as if getting a new license, including the written test and vision screening.

Cost and processing time

A new Texas driver's license costs between $30 and $50, depending on the type and length of validity. A standard five-year license is the most common option. Renewal costs slightly less. Fees are subject to change, so ask at the office or check the Texas DPS website for the current rate.

You pay at the DPS office when you complete your transaction. The office processes your process when ready, but your physical license is printed and mailed to you by the state. Expect to receive it within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before it arrives, ask the DPS office for a temporary paper license, which they can issue on the spot.

Changing your name or address

If you've moved within Garland or changed your name since your last license, you can update your information at the DPS office. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (if you moved), and proof of your name change (like a marriage certificate or court order). The update fee is usually lower than a full renewal.

You can also update your address online through the Texas DPS website without visiting the office, though you'll still need to renew your physical license in person when it expires.

What to expect on the day you visit

Arrive at the DPS office with all required documents and be prepared to wait, especially during lunch hours or late afternoon. Bring your Social Security card or number, proof of identity, proof of residency, and your current license if you're renewing. Have your documents organized and ready to hand over when called.

The staff will verify your documents, take your photograph, and collect payment. If you're taking a written test, you'll sit at a computer terminal and answer questions. The vision screening happens at a machine in the office. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes once you're called, though the wait to be called can be longer during busy times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license by mail or online?

Texas allows online renewal for some drivers, but only if your license is not expired and you meet other requirements. Visit the Texas DPS website to check if you're may be able to access. If you are, you can renew without visiting the office, though you'll still receive your new license by mail.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Report the loss to the DPS office in Garland. You'll need to pay a replacement fee (usually $10 to $15) and bring proof of identity and residency. The DPS will issue a new license with the same number, and it will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Do I need an eye exam from an optometrist?

No. The vision screening at the DPS office is sufficient. You do not need a separate eye exam from an optometrist unless you fail the DPS screening, in which case you may be asked to bring a letter from an eye doctor confirming you can drive safely.

How long is a Texas driver's license valid?

A standard driver's license is valid for five years. If you're over 85, your license is valid for two years. Military members stationed outside Texas can request a longer validity period.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day or return another day. There is usually a small fee for each retake. You have multiple attempts to pass, so don't worry if you don't pass on your first try.