Texas driver's license fees depend on the type of license and how long you want it to last

A standard Texas driver's license costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. If you are 85 or older, a five-year license costs $16. These are the base fees charged by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). You may pay additional fees if you need a duplicate, a replacement, or a corrected license, or if you are paying by mail or online.

The fee covers the cost of producing the card, processing your process, and maintaining the DPS system. Texas does not charge separate process or processing fees on top of the license fee itself — what you see is what you pay, plus any delivery or payment method surcharges.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard four-year Texas driver's license costs $16, and an eight-year license costs $32.
  • Drivers 85 and older pay $16 for a five-year license instead of the standard options.
  • Duplicate, replacement, and corrected licenses each have their own separate fees, typically $11 to $20.
  • You can pay in person at a DPS office, by mail, or online through the DPS website, and payment method may affect the total cost.

What the different license types cost

The four-year license at $16 is the most common choice for drivers under 85. It is the least expensive option and covers most people's needs. The eight-year license at $32 costs twice as much but lasts twice as long, so the annual cost is the same — the choice comes down to whether you want to renew less often.

Drivers 85 and older receive a five-year license for $16, the same price as the four-year license. Texas law requires drivers in this age group to renew more frequently, but the state does not charge them extra for that requirement.

Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) have different fees. A four-year CDL costs $20, and an eight-year CDL costs $40. These are higher than standard licenses because commercial licenses require additional testing and oversight.

Duplicate, replacement, and corrected license fees

If you need a duplicate of your current license — for example, to have a backup — the fee is $11. A replacement license, which you order when your current license is lost, stolen, or damaged, also costs $11. A corrected license, which you order when information on your license is wrong (such as your name or address), costs $11 as well.

These fees are separate from the renewal fee. If your license is expiring and you also need a replacement because it is damaged, you will pay both the renewal fee and the $11 replacement fee.

How to pay and whether delivery affects the cost

You can renew or obtain a Texas driver's license in three ways: in person at a DPS office, by mail, or online through the DPS website. The base fee is the same no matter which method you choose, but the total cost may differ.

Paying in person at a DPS office costs only the license fee itself — no surcharge. Paying by mail requires you to send a check or money order, and you cover the cost of postage and any certified mail service you choose. Paying online through the DPS website may include a payment processing fee charged by the payment processor, typically $1 to $3, depending on the processor.

Delivery time also varies by method. In-person renewal is usually completed the same day. Mail renewal takes one to two weeks for DPS to receive your process, process it, and mail your license back. Online renewal through the DPS website is processed within a few business days, and your license is mailed to you.

What documents you need to bring or send

To renew or obtain a license, you must provide proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, passport, or state ID for identity; a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement for residency; and a Social Security card or tax return for your Social Security number.

If you are renewing by mail, you will send copies of these documents along with your process form (DL-44, available on the DPS website). If you are renewing in person, you bring the originals. If you are renewing online, you upload images of the documents through the DPS portal.

Bring or send the correct documents the first time. If DPS rejects your process because a document is missing or invalid, you will have to resubmit, which delays your license and may require you to pay the fee again.

Age-based fees and senior driver requirements

Texas charges the same fee to all drivers under 85, regardless of age. Drivers 85 and older pay the same $16 fee but receive a five-year license instead of four or eight years. This is because Texas law requires older drivers to renew more often and may require them to pass a vision test or medical exam at renewal.

Drivers 87 and older must renew in person at a DPS office — they cannot renew by mail or online. This in-person requirement does not add a fee, but it does mean you cannot avoid a trip to a DPS office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay the full fee if I renew early?

Yes. Texas does not prorate the license fee if you renew before your current license expires. You pay the full fee for a new four-year or eight-year license, and your old license becomes invalid once the new one is issued. Renewing early is useful if you need a license with a later expiration date for travel or employment, but it does not reduce the cost.

What if I lost my license and need a replacement right away?

A replacement license costs $11 and can be ordered online or in person. In-person replacement at a DPS office is usually completed the same day. Online replacement is processed within a few business days. If you need a license when ready for driving, ask the DPS office whether they can issue a temporary paper license while you wait for the card.

Do I pay a fee to change my address on my license?

No. Changing your address without renewing your license is free and can be done online through the DPS website or in person at a DPS office. You do not need to order a new card. If you want a new card with the updated address, you pay the $11 corrected license fee.

Are there any discounts for military members or low-income drivers?

Texas does not offer a reduced fee for military members or low-income drivers. The fee is the same for all applicants. Some counties or cities may offer information programs, but these are not run by DPS. Contact your local county clerk's office to ask whether your area has any support programs.

What happens if I pay the wrong amount?

If you pay by mail or online and send less than the required fee, DPS will return your process and ask you to resubmit with the correct payment. If you overpay, DPS will process your process and may refund the overage, though this can take several weeks. It is best to verify the exact fee before you submit payment.