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, your license is free and lasts for two years. These are the base fees the Texas Department of Public Safety charges; some counties add a small processing fee on top, usually $1 to $3.
The price does not change based on where you live in Texas or what kind of vehicle you drive. You pay the same amount whether you are in Houston, Dallas, or a rural county. The only exception is age — seniors get a discount, and very young drivers pay the same as adults.
If you need a Real ID — a license that works for federal purposes like boarding a plane or entering a federal building — the cost is the same. Real ID is now standard in Texas, so most people get it without paying extra.
Key Takeaways
- A four-year Texas driver's license costs $16, and an eight-year license costs $32.
- Drivers 85 and older pay nothing for a two-year license.
- Some counties charge an additional $1 to $3 processing fee on top of the state fee.
- Real ID is included at no extra cost and is now the standard license type in Texas.
- You can pay by cash, check, or card at any Texas Department of Public Safety office.
Where to pay and what documents you need
You pay the fee in person at a Texas Department of Public Safety office when you show up for your appointment. You cannot pay online or by mail — the payment happens at the same time you take your photo and pass your vision test.
Bring your Social Security number, proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days), and proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or previous license). If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present. The office will tell you the exact total, including any county fee, before you pay.
Most offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. A few smaller offices may only take cash or check, so call ahead if you want to be sure. The Texas DPS website lists all office locations and their hours.
Renewal costs and when you pay again
When your license expires, you renew it at the same price you paid the first time. If you originally got a four-year license for $16, your renewal will also cost $16. If you upgrade to an eight-year license during renewal, you pay $32.
You can renew by mail if your license is not suspended and you do not need to update your address or photo. Mail renewal costs the same as in-person renewal. The Texas DPS sends renewal notices about 60 days before your license expires, so you have time to plan.
If you renew online through the Texas DPS website, the fee is still the same — there is no discount for doing it digitally. Online renewal is available only if you meet certain conditions, like having a valid license and no address changes.
Replacement licenses and duplicate copies
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement costs $11. This is less than a new license because you do not need a new photo or vision test — the DPS uses your existing information. You still need to show up in person with proof of identity and residency.
A duplicate copy of your license costs $5 and takes about the same time as a replacement. Some people order a duplicate to keep at home while they carry the original, or to have a backup if they expect to lose it.
Both replacements and duplicates are available at any DPS office. Processing time is usually the same day or within a few days, depending on how busy the office is.
Commercial driver's license fees
A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs more than a standard license. A four-year CDL is $60, and an eight-year CDL is $120. These fees cover the written test, skills test, and medical certification that commercial drivers need.
CDL renewals cost the same as the original license. If you downgrade from a CDL to a standard license, you pay the standard license fee and do not get a refund for the unused portion of your CDL.
Motorcycle endorsement and other add-ons
Adding a motorcycle endorsement to your Texas driver's license costs $20 for a four-year license or $40 for an eight-year license. You need to pass a written test and a riding skills test to get the endorsement. The endorsement fee is added to your regular license fee, so you pay both at the same time.
Other endorsements, like a hazmat endorsement for commercial drivers, have their own fees. The DPS website lists all endorsement types and their costs. Most endorsements are $20 to $40 depending on the length of your license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a discount if I renew early?
No. Texas does not offer early renewal discounts. You pay the full fee whenever you renew, whether you renew on time or early. However, you can renew up to one year before your license expires without penalty.
What if I turn 85 while my license is still valid?
You do not get a refund for the unused time on your current license. When you renew, your new license will be free and last two years. If you want to renew early to take advantage of the senior rate, you can do so without penalty.
Do I pay the same fee if I change my address?
No. Changing your address on an active license costs $11 and does not require a new photo or test. This is the same price as a replacement. You only pay the full license fee if your license has expired or if you are renewing.
Is there a fee to take the written test or driving test?
The written test and driving test are included in the license fee. You do not pay separately for tests. If you fail a test and need to retake it, you may need to pay a retest fee — ask at your local DPS office for the current amount.
What happens if I cannot afford the fee?
Texas does not have a fee waiver program for driver's licenses. If cost is a barrier, contact your local DPS office to ask about payment plans or other options they may offer. Some offices may work with you on timing or payment method.