Where to get your driver's license in Killeen

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) issues driver's licenses in Texas. In Killeen, you go to the DPS Driver License office located at 3600 East Central Texas Expressway, Killeen, TX 76543. This is the only place in Killeen where you can explore for a new license, renew an expiring one, or replace a lost or damaged license.

You do not need an appointment to visit, but wait times vary by time of day and day of week. The office is typically less crowded on weekday mornings. You can check current wait times on the Texas DPS website before you go, which helps you plan when to arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit the DPS Driver License office at 3600 East Central Texas Expressway in Killeen with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
  • A new Texas driver's license costs $33 and is valid for eight years; renewal costs $33 and extends your license for another eight years.
  • You must pass a written test, vision screening, and driving test to get your first license; renewals by mail or online do not require these tests.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted, and the office staff will tell you when ready if your documents are not acceptable.
  • If you are under 18, you must have a parent or guardian present and will receive a license with restrictions until you turn 18.

Documents you need to bring

Texas requires you to bring specific documents to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies do not work. The DPS staff will review your documents before you take any tests, so you will know right away if something is missing or unacceptable.

For proof of identity, bring your passport, certified birth certificate, or military ID. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days and showing your current Killeen address. You will also need to provide your Social Security number; bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it, such as a W-2 form or tax return.

If you are renewing your license and your name has not changed, you may be able to renew by mail or online instead of visiting the office in person. The Texas DPS website shows which renewal options are available for your situation.

The cost and how long your license lasts

A new Texas driver's license costs $33 and is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. Renewal also costs $33 and extends your license for another eight years. If you are under 21, your license expires on your 21st birthday, not eight years later. If you replace a lost or damaged license, the cost is $11.

The DPS accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Fees do not change based on where you explore in Texas — the cost is the same in Killeen as it is anywhere else in the state.

What to expect when you take the tests

If you are getting your first license, you must pass three things: a written knowledge test, a vision screening, and a driving test. The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the DPS website. You need to answer at least 70 percent of the questions correctly to pass.

The vision screening checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. The driving test happens on the road near the DPS office and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. A DPS examiner sits in the car with you and watches how you handle basic driving tasks like parking, turning, and stopping.

If you are renewing your license and your vision has not changed, you do not take these tests again. You only take a new vision screening if you are renewing in person at the office.

If you are under 18

You must have a parent or legal guardian present when you explore for your first license. Bring their ID along with your documents. You will receive a license with restrictions: you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., you cannot have passengers under 21 in the car unless a parent or guardian is present, and you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free.

These restrictions stay in place until you turn 18. At that point, you can visit the DPS office again to get an unrestricted license at no additional cost.

Renewing your license by mail or online

If your license is still valid and your name and address have not changed, you may be able to renew without visiting the office. The Texas DPS website has a tool that tells you whether you are may be able to access to renew by mail or online. Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks; online renewal is faster but requires you to upload a new photo.

You cannot renew by mail or online if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you have had a suspension or revocation, or if you need to update your address or name. In those cases, you must visit the office in Killeen in person.

What to do if you have moved to Killeen from another state

If you have a valid driver's license from another state, you do not have to take the written test or driving test again. You only need to pass the vision screening. Bring your out-of-state license along with your proof of identity, proof of residency in Killeen, and Social Security number. The DPS will issue you a Texas license, and your out-of-state license becomes invalid.

Texas law requires you to get a Texas license within 30 days of moving to the state. If your out-of-state license is expiring soon, it is a good idea to get your Texas license right away so you do not end up with an expired license while you are waiting for the new one to arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get your license after you pass the tests?

The DPS mails your license to the address you provide, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use to drive while you wait for the permanent one to arrive in the mail.

What if you fail the written test or driving test?

You can retake either test the same day or come back another day. There is no extra fee to retake a test. You have six attempts to pass the written test and three attempts to pass the driving test within a 12-month period.

Can you get a Real ID license in Killeen?

Yes. A Real ID license costs the same as a regular license ($33) and requires one additional document proving your residency, such as a utility bill or lease. Real ID licenses are required for federal buildings and air travel starting in May 2025. The DPS office in Killeen can issue them.

What if your Social Security number is not on file with the DPS?

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number, such as a W-2 or tax return. The DPS will add it to your record during your visit. You cannot get a license without providing your Social Security number.

Can you change your name on your license in Killeen?

Yes, but you must bring legal proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Visit the DPS office with your current license, the name-change document, and proof of residency. The fee is $11 to replace your license with the new name.