Bring these documents to the Texas DPS office

Texas requires you to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to get a driver's license. You cannot complete the transaction without all three categories. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will not accept expired documents for identity or residency, though some documents can be older than others.

You will also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test at the DPS office. Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one — it speeds up the process. If you do not have a current license, bring a birth certificate or passport instead.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document proving your identity, one proving your Texas address, and one proving your Social Security number.
  • Identity and residency documents must be current and valid; expired documents will not be accepted for these categories.
  • A current out-of-state driver's license counts as both identity and residency proof if it shows your current address.
  • If you do not have a driver's license, a U.S. passport or certified birth certificate works for identity instead.
  • You will take a vision test and written exam at the DPS office, so arrive with time to complete both before closing.

Proof of identity documents Texas DPS accepts

A current, valid driver's license or ID card from another U.S. state or territory is the fastest proof of identity. If you have a current passport (U.S. or foreign), that also works. A certified birth certificate issued by the vital records office in the state where you were born is acceptable, though it must be a certified copy, not a photocopy.

Military ID cards, tribal ID cards issued by a federally recognized tribe, and permanent resident cards (green cards) all count as identity documents. If you are under 18, a school ID with a photo and your date of birth may be accepted alongside another document. Ask the DPS office before you go if you have an unusual form of ID — some documents require additional paperwork.

Proof of residency documents Texas DPS accepts

A current utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement showing your name and current Texas address works as residency proof. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A property tax bill or homeowners insurance policy also qualifies if it is current and shows your address.

If you do not have a utility bill or lease, a bank statement, credit card statement, or insurance policy (auto, health, or renters) dated within the last 60 days will work. Some DPS offices accept a voter registration card or a letter from a government agency addressed to you at your Texas address. Call your local DPS office before you go if you are unsure whether your specific document will be accepted — residency rules can vary slightly by office.

Proof of Social Security number

Bring your Social Security card if you have it. If you do not have the card, a W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax document showing your Social Security number works. A benefit statement from Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid also counts.

If you have none of these, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration before you go to the DPS office. This takes one to two weeks by mail. Some DPS offices will issue a temporary license while you wait for your Social Security card to arrive, but you will need to return with the card to get a permanent license.

What to bring if you are renewing or replacing a license

If you already have a Texas driver's license and are renewing it, you may not need to bring all three document categories — bring your current license and one proof of residency if your address has changed. If your license was lost or stolen, bring your birth certificate or passport and proof of residency instead.

If you are replacing a license because it was suspended or revoked, the DPS office will tell you what additional documents or fees you need. Call ahead or check the DPS website for your specific situation, because reinstatement requirements vary by reason for suspension.

Documents you do not need to bring

You do not need to bring a Social Security card if you have a tax form or benefit statement. You do not need to bring multiple documents in each category — one identity document, one residency document, and one Social Security proof is the minimum. You do not need to bring your original birth certificate if you have a passport or current out-of-state license.

You do not need to bring proof of insurance, vehicle registration, or a medical exam. The DPS office does not require a letter of recommendation or character reference. Do not bring originals of important documents you cannot replace easily — bring certified copies instead, and the DPS office will return them to you after they verify them.

What happens at the DPS office

Bring all your documents to your local DPS office during business hours. An employee will verify each document and enter your information into the system. You will then take a vision test — if you fail, you may be required to wear corrective lenses while driving, and this will be noted on your license.

Next, you will take a written knowledge test on Texas traffic laws and road signs. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day. After you pass both tests, you will pay the license fee and have your photo taken. Your temporary license is printed on the spot; your permanent card arrives by mail in one to two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo from my phone or a printed photo instead of having one taken at the DPS office?

No. The DPS office takes your photo as part of the license issuance process. You cannot bring a photo from home. The photo must be taken on the day you explore.

What if my residency document is older than 60 days?

It will not be accepted as your sole proof of residency. Bring a second document that is dated within the last 60 days, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement. If you cannot find a recent document, contact your utility company or bank and request a current statement before you go to the DPS office.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a birth certificate?

No. You need one document proving your Social Security number — a card, tax form, or benefit statement. If you have a birth certificate for identity and a tax form for Social Security, that covers both requirements.

What if I was born outside the United States?

Bring your U.S. passport, permanent resident card, or a certified birth certificate from the country where you were born. If your birth certificate is in another language, bring the original and an English translation certified by a translator. The DPS office will verify these documents before issuing your license.

Can someone else bring my documents for me?

No. You must be present in person at the DPS office to take the vision and knowledge tests and have your photo taken. You cannot send someone else to complete the process for you.