The Texas Department of Public Safety office in Wichita Falls handles driver's licenses

The main place to renew, replace, or get a new driver's license in Wichita Falls is the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License Division office. This is a state office, not a city or county operation, and it's the only location in Wichita Falls where you can complete most driver's license transactions in person.

The office is located at 1000 Broad Street, Wichita Falls, TX 76301. You can reach them by phone at (940) 723-7231. The office serves Wichita County and the surrounding area, so if you live nearby, this is where you'll go for your license needs.

Key Takeaways

  • The Texas DPS Driver License Division office at 1000 Broad Street is the only in-person location in Wichita Falls for driver's license transactions.
  • You can renew your license, get a replacement for a lost or damaged license, or obtain a new license at this office.
  • Bring your current license or ID, proof of residency, and any documents required for your specific transaction type.
  • Hours and wait times vary, so calling ahead or checking the Texas DPS website before you go can save you a trip.

What documents you need to bring

The documents required depend on whether you're renewing, replacing, or getting a new license. For a renewal, bring your current Texas driver's license and proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address). If your license is expired by more than two years, you may need additional documents.

For a replacement license (if yours was lost, stolen, or damaged), bring your proof of residency and a form of ID. If you're getting your first Texas driver's license, you'll need proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. The Texas DPS website lists the specific documents that count for each category, so checking before you go prevents unnecessary trips back home.

Renewal by mail or online instead of in person

You don't have to visit the office in person for every transaction. If your license is not expired and you meet certain conditions, you can renew it by mail or online through the Texas DPS website. Online renewal is faster and costs less than in-person renewal.

Mail renewal takes longer — typically two to three weeks — but works if you can't visit the office. You are not able to renew online if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you've had a name change, or if you need to update your address or other information. In those cases, you'll need to visit the office in person.

Hours, wait times, and what to expect

The Wichita Falls DPS office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though the exact hours can change. Call (940) 723-7231 to confirm the current schedule before you go. Wait times vary depending on the day and time — early mornings and mid-week tend to be less crowded than late afternoons and Fridays.

When you arrive, you'll check in, take a number, and wait to be called. Bring something to read or work on, as waits can range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on how busy the office is. The staff will take your photo, collect your documents, and process your transaction on the spot. You'll receive a temporary license paper while your permanent card is mailed to you, which usually arrives within one to two weeks.

Getting a Real ID compliant license

Texas now issues Real ID compliant driver's licenses, which meet federal standards for air travel and entry to federal buildings. If your current license is not Real ID compliant, you can upgrade it at the Wichita Falls office. You'll need to bring additional documents — typically a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency.

Real ID licenses cost more than standard licenses and take the same amount of time to process. If you travel by air or need to enter federal facilities, upgrading to Real ID is worth doing when you renew. The office staff can tell you whether your current license is Real ID compliant when you call or visit.

What to do if you can't visit in person

If you live outside Wichita Falls or cannot visit the office, you have a few options. As mentioned, renewal by mail or online works for some transactions. You can also contact the DPS by phone at (940) 723-7231 to ask about your specific situation — staff can sometimes direct you to the nearest office in another city or tell you whether your transaction can be handled remotely.

Some services, like getting a duplicate license or renewing without major changes, are simpler and faster to handle by mail or online. Others, like a first-time license or a license after a suspension, require an in-person visit. The DPS website has a tool to help you figure out which route works for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a driver's license cost in Texas?

A standard driver's license renewal costs around $25 to $30, though the exact fee depends on how long you're renewing it for. A Real ID compliant license costs more — typically $35 to $40. Replacement licenses for lost or damaged cards have a separate fee. Call the office to confirm the current prices before you visit.

Can I renew my license if it's been expired for several years?

Yes, but you'll need to visit the office in person and bring more documents than a standard renewal. Licenses expired for more than two years require proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency. You may also need to pass a vision test. Call ahead to ask what documents your situation requires.

How long does it take to get my new license card in the mail?

After your in-person visit, your permanent license card usually arrives within one to two weeks. You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready that you can use while you wait. If your card doesn't arrive within three weeks, contact the office to check on the status.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Wichita Falls DPS office?

The office operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not require appointments. However, you can call (940) 723-7231 to ask about current wait times before you go, which helps you plan when to visit.

What if I need a license for a commercial vehicle?

Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) require additional testing and documents beyond a standard license. The Wichita Falls office handles CDL transactions, but you'll need to bring commercial driving records and pass a written and driving test. Call the office to ask what documents and fees explore to your situation.