Texas driver's license fees by type and renewal method
A Texas driver's license costs $16 for a Class C license (the standard license for regular drivers), and that price holds whether you're getting one for the first time or renewing it. The fee is the same whether you explore in person at a Department of Public Safety office or renew by mail. If you need a Real ID-compliant license — which you'll need to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025 — the cost is $32.
Commercial driver's licenses (CDL) cost more: $20 for a Class A, B, or C commercial license. Motorcycle endorsements add $10 to any license type. If you want to renew early — before your current license expires — you pay the standard renewal fee with no discount.
These are state fees only. Some counties charge an additional county fee of up to $10 when you explore in person, though many do not. Check with your local DPS office before you go to confirm whether your county adds a fee.
Key Takeaways
- A standard Texas Class C driver's license costs $16 for both new and renewal applications.
- A Real ID-compliant license costs $32 and is required for domestic air travel starting May 7, 2025.
- Some counties add up to $10 in local fees on top of the state fee, so contact your DPS office to confirm the total cost.
- Commercial licenses cost $20, and motorcycle endorsements cost $10 additional.
- Mail renewal costs the same as in-person renewal, but not all license types can be renewed by mail.
When you can renew by mail and what that costs
Mail renewal is free in terms of postage — you don't pay extra to renew by mail — but you still pay the $16 standard renewal fee. However, not every license can be renewed by mail. You can renew by mail only if your current license is not suspended or revoked, you have no address changes, and you don't need to update your photo or personal information.
If you renew by mail, you'll send your current license and the renewal form to the address listed on the DPS website. The process takes longer than in-person renewal — typically 4 to 6 weeks — so plan ahead if you have an upcoming trip or need your license quickly.
What happens if you let your license expire
If your license has been expired for less than two years, you can renew it by mail or in person and pay only the standard $16 renewal fee. If it has been expired for more than two years, you must explore for a new license in person, which costs the same $16 but requires you to pass the written test and vision test again.
You cannot legally drive with an expired license, even if you have applied for renewal and are waiting for it to arrive. If you are stopped by law enforcement, an expired license can result in a traffic citation.
Replacement licenses and duplicate fees
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement costs $11 — less than a renewal. You must explore in person at a DPS office. A duplicate license (an extra copy of your current license) also costs $11 and can be ordered by mail or in person.
If you need a replacement because your name changed — through marriage, divorce, or court order — you'll pay the $11 replacement fee plus you must bring the legal document proving the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
Real ID compliance and the cost difference
A Real ID license costs $16 more than a standard license ($32 total instead of $16). Real ID is a federal standard that makes your license acceptable for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. Starting May 7, 2025, a standard Texas driver's license will no longer be accepted for these purposes — you'll need either a Real ID license or a passport.
When you renew your license, you can choose to upgrade to Real ID at the time of renewal for the $32 fee, or stick with a standard license for $16. If you wait until after May 2025 and then need Real ID, you'll still pay $32 to get it. There is no penalty for upgrading early, and no discount for waiting.
To get a Real ID license, you must bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Texas residency to a DPS office. A standard license requires the same documents. The difference is in the federal verification process, which takes a few extra minutes but does not change the fee.
Payment methods and where to pay
The DPS accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at in-person offices. If you renew by mail, you can pay by check or money order only — not by card. Some DPS offices also accept online payment if you're renewing by mail, though this varies by location. Check the DPS website or call your local office to confirm what payment methods they accept.
You cannot pay your license fee online and skip the in-person visit if you're explore for a new license or a replacement. You must appear in person for the photo, written test (if required), and vision test.
Commercial driver's license costs and endorsements
A commercial driver's license costs $20 for the initial license and $20 for renewal. If you need a hazmat endorsement, that adds $7. A motorcycle endorsement costs $10 and can be added to any license type. If you're getting a CDL with a motorcycle endorsement, you pay $20 for the CDL plus $10 for the endorsement, totaling $30.
Commercial licenses require a medical certificate and a more rigorous written test than a standard license. The $20 fee does not include the cost of the medical exam, which you must obtain from a certified medical examiner and bring with you to the DPS office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license online?
You cannot renew entirely online, but you can start the renewal process online through the DPS website and then complete it by mail or in person. Full online renewal is not available in Texas.
Do I have to pay if my license was suspended or revoked?
You must pay the renewal fee to reinstate your license, but you may also owe reinstatement fees to the court or DPS depending on why it was suspended. Contact the DPS or the court that issued the suspension to find out the total cost.
What if I'm a Texas resident but don't have a Social Security number?
You can still get a Texas driver's license. You'll need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a document from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for a number. The license fee remains $16.
Is there a discount for seniors or military members?
Texas does not offer a reduced fee for seniors or military members. All applicants pay the same $16 for a standard license, regardless of age or military status.
How long is a Texas driver's license valid?
A standard Texas driver's license is valid for 5 years. A Real ID license is also valid for 5 years. Commercial licenses are valid for 5 years but require a medical certificate renewal every 24 months, which has a separate fee.