What a temporary driver's license is and who can get one
A temporary driver's license in Texas is a paper document issued by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) that lets you drive legally while your permanent plastic license is being processed or replaced. It is valid for 45 days from the date of issue and has the same legal weight as a permanent license — police will accept it as proof you are licensed to drive.
You can get a temporary license if you are renewing an expired license, replacing a lost or stolen license, changing your name or address, or obtaining your first license. You receive it on the spot after you pass the written and driving tests (if required) and pay the fee, before the DPS mails your permanent card to you.
The temporary license is printed at the DPS office where you complete your transaction. It includes your name, date of birth, license number, and expiration date, but it is not laminated and will wear quickly if you carry it in your wallet. Many people keep it in a safe place and use a photo of it on their phone as backup.
Key Takeaways
- You receive a temporary paper license when ready after passing the DPS written and driving tests and paying the fee, valid for 45 days.
- The temporary license has the same legal standing as a permanent license and satisfies police and insurance companies as proof of a valid license.
- You must visit a DPS office in person; temporary licenses cannot be obtained by mail, online, or through a third-party service.
- If your permanent license arrives before the 45 days expire, the temporary license becomes void and you should stop carrying it.
When you will receive a temporary license at the DPS office
The DPS issues a temporary license only after you have completed all the steps required for your transaction. If you are renewing, you must pass the vision test and pay the renewal fee. If you are obtaining your first license or a license after a suspension, you must pass both the written knowledge test and the driving test, then pay the license fee.
Once you have passed all required tests and paid, a DPS employee will print your temporary license at the office. You walk out with it the same day. The DPS does not mail temporary licenses or issue them later — you either receive it before you leave the office or you do not receive one at that visit.
If you do not pass a required test, you will not receive a temporary license. You can retake the test at a later appointment, and you will receive the temporary license only after you pass.
How long a temporary license is valid and what happens when it expires
Your temporary license is valid for exactly 45 days from the date printed on it. After 45 days, it is no longer legal to drive with that document, even if your permanent license has not arrived yet.
The DPS typically mails permanent licenses within two to three weeks of your office visit, though processing times vary and can be longer during high-volume periods. Most people receive their permanent license before the temporary one expires. If your permanent license arrives early, you should stop using the temporary license when ready and carry the permanent one instead.
If your permanent license does not arrive within 45 days, you will need to return to a DPS office and request a replacement or reissue. Bring your temporary license with you. The DPS can print a new temporary license at that visit while they investigate the status of your permanent card.
What to bring to the DPS office to get a temporary license
The documents you need depend on whether you are renewing, replacing, or obtaining a license for the first time. For a renewal, bring your current license (or expired license if it is still valid for identification), proof of residency such as a utility bill or lease, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
For a replacement due to loss or theft, bring a government-issued photo ID such as a passport, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. If you are obtaining your first license, bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and a completed DL 44 form (process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card).
For a name change, bring your current license, a certified copy of the document showing the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The DPS website lists the specific documents accepted for each type of transaction, and you can verify what you need before you go.
Fees for a temporary license and permanent license
You do not pay a separate fee for the temporary license. The fee you pay at the DPS office covers both the temporary license (issued when ready) and the permanent license (mailed later). The cost of a license in Texas varies by type and term.
A standard five-year driver's license costs $33. A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs more and depends on the endorsements you need. If you are renewing early or replacing a lost license, the fee may differ. The DPS website shows the current fee schedule, and the office staff will tell you the exact amount before you pay.
Some DPS offices accept cash, debit, and credit cards. A few accept checks. Call ahead or check the office website to confirm payment methods, as they vary by location.
Finding a DPS office and scheduling an appointment
Texas has DPS driver license offices in most cities and many smaller towns. You can find the office nearest you on the DPS website by entering your city or zip code. The site shows office hours, phone numbers, and whether appointments are required.
Most DPS offices now require an appointment, especially for first-time licenses and driving tests. You can book an appointment online through the DPS website or by calling the office directly. Walk-ins are sometimes accepted for straightforward renewals, but wait times can be long. Scheduling ahead is faster and more reliable.
If you need a driving test, appointment availability is often limited, and you may need to wait several weeks. If you need only a renewal or replacement without a test, you can usually find an appointment within a few days. Plan ahead if you have a important date for getting your license.
What to do if your permanent license does not arrive within 45 days
If your permanent license does not arrive by the time your temporary license expires, contact the DPS to check the status. You can call the DPS customer service line or visit the office where you applied. Have your temporary license number and date of birth ready.
The DPS can look up your process and tell you whether your permanent license is still in processing, has been mailed, or has been delayed. If it has been mailed but lost in transit, the DPS can issue a replacement. If it is still in processing, they can print a new temporary license for you at the office.
Do not drive after your temporary license expires while waiting for the permanent one. Driving with an expired license, even temporarily, is a violation and can result in a ticket. Return to the DPS office for a replacement temporary license if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a temporary license to drive out of state?
Yes. A temporary Texas driver's license is valid in all 50 states and is recognized as proof of a valid license. Police in other states will accept it the same way they accept a permanent license. However, some rental car companies may not accept a temporary license, so call ahead if you plan to rent a vehicle.
What if I lose my temporary license before my permanent one arrives?
Return to the DPS office and request a replacement. Bring your ID and proof of residency. The DPS will print a new temporary license on the spot at no additional charge. Your new temporary license will be valid for 45 days from the new date of issue.
Can I get a temporary license by mail or online?
No. Temporary licenses are issued only in person at a DPS office after you complete your transaction. There is no mail or online option. You must visit the office, pass any required tests, and pay the fee to receive a temporary license.
Does my temporary license show my address?
Yes. Your temporary license includes your current address on file with the DPS. If you move before your permanent license arrives, you should update your address with the DPS. You can do this online or at a DPS office, and the DPS will mail a corrected permanent license to your new address.
Is a temporary license valid for commercial driving?
Yes, if you passed the commercial driver's license test. A temporary CDL is valid for the same 45 days as a regular temporary license and carries the same legal weight. You can drive commercially with it while waiting for your permanent CDL to arrive.