Where to go for your driver's license in Lubbock

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs the driver's license program in Lubbock. You'll visit a DPS Driver License office to get a new license, renew an expiring one, or make changes to an existing license. In Lubbock, the main office is located at 1302 Avenue K, and it's the place where you'll take your written test, vision test, and photo.

You can also handle some tasks online through the Texas DPS website before you go in person. The office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though hours vary by season and staffing. Call ahead or check the DPS website to confirm current hours, because wait times can be long during peak periods.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit the DPS Driver License office in Lubbock in person to take your vision and written tests and have your photo taken.
  • Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or documentation showing you don't have one.
  • A new license costs around $33 for a five-year license or $66 for an eight-year license, though prices can change.
  • Renewals by mail are available if your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and you meet other specific conditions.
  • If you're under 18, you'll need parental consent and must pass a driving test; adult licenses do not require a driving test.

Documents you need to bring

Texas requires you to bring three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. A valid passport, birth certificate, or military ID card works for identity. For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement with your current Lubbock address on it. If you don't have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that.

If you're renewing and your name has changed since your last license (through marriage, divorce, or court order), bring the document that shows the change. If you're under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with you, along with their ID and proof they live with you or have custody.

Getting a new license if you're 18 or older

Walk into the DPS office with your documents and tell the staff you need a new license. You'll fill out an process form (DL-44), take a vision test, pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, and have your photo taken. The written test covers Texas traffic rules and safe driving practices. You can study for it using the Texas DPS driver handbook, which is free online.

You do not have to take a behind-the-wheel driving test to get an adult license in Texas. Once you pass the written and vision tests, you'll pay the fee and receive your temporary license on the spot. Your permanent license arrives in the mail within two to three weeks.

Getting a license if you're under 18

If you're a minor, you must bring a parent or legal guardian to the DPS office. You'll complete the same written and vision tests as adults, but you also have to pass a behind-the-wheel driving test with a DPS examiner. This test checks your ability to handle a vehicle safely on the road.

Before you can take the driving test, you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months (or three months if you're 18 and taking the test). The learner's permit requires the same documents and tests as a regular license, but it restricts when and where you can drive. Once you pass the driving test, you'll get a provisional license with additional restrictions until you turn 18.

Renewing your license by mail or in person

If your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and your name hasn't changed, you may renew by mail without visiting the office. The Texas DPS website lets you check whether you're may be able to access for mail renewal. If you are, you can request a renewal form online and mail it back with your fee and a new photo. Mail renewal takes about four weeks.

If you don't meet the requirements for mail renewal, or if you prefer to renew in person, go to the DPS office with your current license and proof of residency. You'll take a new vision test and have a new photo taken, but you won't retake the written test. Renewal in person takes about the same time as a new license.

What happens if your license is suspended or expired

If your license has been suspended (usually for unpaid traffic fines, DWI, or other violations), you cannot renew it. You must first resolve the reason for the suspension. Contact the DPS or the court that issued the suspension to find out what you need to do. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew or get a new license.

If your license has straightforward expired, you can still renew it as long as it expired fewer than two years ago. If it expired more than two years ago, you'll have to get a new license instead, which means taking the written test again. Bring your expired license to the office so staff can see your history.

Changing your address or name on your license

If you've moved within Texas, you can update your address online through the DPS website without visiting the office. If you've moved from out of state, you'll need to get a new Texas license. If your name has changed, you must visit the office in person with proof of the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) and your current license.

Address changes are free, but name changes may require a new license fee depending on how much time is left on your current license. Ask the staff at the office what you'll owe before you make the change.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a license at the Lubbock DPS office?

The office visit itself usually takes 30 minutes to two hours depending on how busy it is. Your temporary license is issued the same day, and your permanent license arrives by mail in two to three weeks. Call ahead to ask about current wait times.

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No. You must take the written test in person at the DPS office in Lubbock. You can study using the free Texas DPS driver handbook online before you go, but the test itself is given only at the office.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day or come back another day. There's usually no extra fee for retakes, though you may have to pay the process fee again depending on DPS policy. Ask the staff what the cost is before you leave.

Do I need an appointment to visit the DPS office?

Some DPS offices in Texas use appointment systems, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the Texas DPS website or call the Lubbock office directly to find out whether you need an appointment.

What if I moved to Lubbock from another state?

You'll need to get a new Texas license. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of identity, proof of residency in Lubbock, and proof of your Social Security number. You'll take the written and vision tests, but your out-of-state driving experience may affect whether you need a behind-the-wheel test.