Texas driver's license and ID card fees

A Texas driver's license costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. An ID card (for people who don't drive) costs $16 for a four-year card or $32 for an eight-year card. These are the base fees charged by the Texas Department of Public Safety. If you need to replace a lost or stolen license, the replacement fee is $11.

The actual amount you pay at the DPS office may be higher because some locations add a service fee. This fee varies by location — some offices charge $1 to $3 extra, while others charge nothing. Call your local DPS office before you go to confirm the exact total you'll need to bring.

Payment methods accepted at DPS offices include cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Some offices may have restrictions on which cards they accept, so calling ahead is worth the time.

Key Takeaways

  • A four-year Texas driver's license costs $16, and an eight-year license costs $32, plus any service fee your local DPS office charges.
  • Replacement licenses for lost or stolen cards cost $11 plus the same potential service fee.
  • The total you pay depends on your location because DPS offices can add their own service fees on top of the state fee.
  • You can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card at most DPS offices, though some locations may have payment restrictions.

Why the cost varies by how long your license lasts

Texas offers two renewal periods: four years and eight years. The four-year license is cheaper upfront ($16 instead of $32), but you'll renew more often. The eight-year license costs twice as much but doesn't require renewal for twice as long.

Most people choose based on how long they plan to stay in Texas or how often they want to handle renewal. If you're unsure whether you'll be in the state in eight years, the four-year option gives you flexibility. If you want to renew less often, the eight-year license is a one-time higher cost.

Additional charges you might encounter

The base license fee doesn't include everything. If you need a duplicate (an extra copy of your current license), that costs $11. If you're renewing early because your address changed or your name changed, you still pay the standard renewal fee — there's no extra charge for the update itself.

If you fail the written test or driving test, you don't pay again to retake it — you only pay the license fee once you pass. However, some DPS offices charge a small fee (usually $5 to $10) to schedule a test appointment, though this varies by location.

Expedited or rush processing is not available through DPS. Your license will be mailed to you within the standard timeframe, which is typically 7 to 10 business days after your appointment.

What you need to bring to avoid extra trips

Bring your current license or ID, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and proof of citizenship or legal presence (a birth certificate, passport, or immigration document). If any of these documents are missing, the DPS office will turn you away and you'll have to return another day.

Bring the exact payment amount or a card, because some offices have limited change on hand. If you're paying by check, make it out to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

How to find your local DPS office and confirm fees

Go to the Texas Department of Public Safety website and use their office locator tool. Enter your city or zip code to find the nearest office, its hours, and its phone number. Call before you go — this is the fastest way to confirm whether your location charges a service fee and whether they have appointments available.

Many DPS offices now use an online appointment system. You can often schedule your visit in advance, which reduces wait time. Some offices still operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so calling ahead tells you what to expect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online instead of going to an office?

Texas allows online renewal only if your license is not expired and you haven't had certain violations or medical suspensions. Online renewal costs the same as in-person renewal. Visit the Texas DPS website to check whether you're may be able to access and to renew online if you are.

What if I'm a senior or have a disability — is there a discount?

Texas does not offer a reduced fee for seniors or people with disabilities. However, if you have a disability that makes it hard to visit an office, you can request a mobile unit visit or ask about accommodations when you call your local DPS office.

Do I have to pay the full fee if I'm renewing early?

Yes, you pay the full renewal fee even if you renew before your current license expires. The fee does not prorate based on how much time is left on your old license.

Is there a fee to change my address on my license?

Changing your address is part of the renewal process and costs the same as a regular renewal — $16 for four years or $32 for eight years. You cannot change your address without renewing your license.

What if I lose my license before it expires — do I pay full price to replace it?

A replacement for a lost or stolen license costs $11, not the full renewal fee. This is cheaper than renewing, but your new license will have the same expiration date as your old one would have had.