Where to go for a driver's license in Plano

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs the driver's license office in Plano. It is located at 2610 Coit Road, Plano, TX 75075. This is the office where you will go in person to take your written test, vision test, and photo for a new license or to renew an existing one.

You cannot handle most driver's license tasks online or by mail in Texas. You must visit a DPS office in person for your first license, a renewal that requires a new photo, or if your license was suspended or revoked. Some offices are busier than others, and wait times at the Plano location vary by time of day and day of week.

Key Takeaways

  • The Plano DPS office is at 2610 Coit Road and handles new licenses, renewals, replacements, and tests.
  • You must bring specific documents: a birth certificate or passport, proof of Texas residency, and proof of your Social Security number.
  • The office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though hours vary by season and may change without notice.
  • You can check current wait times and office hours on the Texas DPS website before you go.
  • If you need to take the written or driving test, you must schedule an appointment or arrive early, as same-day testing is not always available.

Documents you need to bring

Texas requires you to bring three types of documents to the Plano DPS office: proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and proof of your Social Security number. A U.S. passport or birth certificate counts as proof of identity. A driver's license, state ID, or military ID also works if you already have one.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current Plano address on it. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. For Social Security proof, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form.

If you are renewing a license and do not need a new photo, you may be able to renew by mail or online instead of visiting the office. Check the Texas DPS website to see which renewals can be done without coming in person.

What to expect during your visit

When you arrive at the Plano office, you will check in and wait to be called. A DPS employee will review your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee. If you are getting a new license for the first time or your license expired more than two years ago, you will also take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, and a vision test.

The written test has 30 questions and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You can study the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the DPS website, before you go. If you fail the test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day.

If you are also taking the driving test (the road test), that is scheduled separately and usually happens on a different day. You must pass the written and vision tests first.

Fees and how long it takes

A new driver's license costs $33 in Texas and is valid for six years. A renewal costs $33 and extends your license for another six years. If you need a replacement because your license was lost or stolen, the fee is $11. Payment is cash, debit, or credit card.

Your license is usually ready to pick up within one to two weeks. The DPS will mail it to the address you provide. If you need it sooner, ask at the office whether expedited processing is available and what it costs.

Hours and how to check wait times

The Plano DPS office is open Monday through Friday. Hours are typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but this can change seasonally or without notice. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays.

Before you go, check the Texas DPS website or call the Plano office directly at the number listed on the DPS site. The website shows current wait times and lets you see whether the office is unusually busy that day. Going early in the morning or mid-week often means shorter waits than Friday afternoons.

If you need to take the driving test

The driving test (also called the road test) is separate from getting your license. You must pass your written and vision tests first, then schedule a driving test appointment. The Plano DPS office administers these tests, but you may need to schedule weeks in advance depending on how busy the office is.

For the driving test, bring your vehicle, proof of insurance, and a valid ID. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You must demonstrate basic driving skills like parking, turning, and following traffic laws. If you fail, you can retake it, but you will need to schedule another appointment and pay another fee.

What to do if you cannot visit in person

If you have a medical condition that prevents you from visiting the office, you may be able to request a waiver or accommodation. Contact the Plano DPS office directly to ask about options. Some services, like renewing a license that does not require a new photo, can be done online or by mail instead.

If you are moving out of Texas or need a license from another state, you will need to follow that state's process. Texas will not issue you a license if you hold a valid license from another state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make an appointment at the Plano DPS office?

Some services at the Plano office can be scheduled by appointment through the Texas DPS website. However, walk-ins are also accepted. Check the website to see whether appointments are currently being taken and whether scheduling one will reduce your wait time.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day or return another day. There is no waiting period between attempts. Each retake costs the same as the original test. You have up to three attempts per visit before you must leave and come back another day.

Do I need to bring my old license?

If you are renewing, bring your old license if you have it. If you are getting a new license for the first time or your old one was lost or stolen, you do not need it. The DPS will look up your record in their system.

How long is a Texas driver's license valid?

A standard driver's license is valid for six years from the date it is issued. Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license. You can renew it up to one year before it expires.

What if I moved to Plano from another state?

You must get a Texas license within 30 days of moving to the state. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of your new Plano address, and the other required documents listed above. You will need to take the written and vision tests again.