What Texas DPS handles for your driver's license
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the state agency that issues, renews, and manages driver's licenses in Texas. When you need a new license, a renewal, a replacement for a lost or stolen card, or a change to your current license, you go through DPS. They also handle commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) and motorcycle endorsements.
DPS does not mail licenses to you automatically — you have to request a renewal or replacement yourself. The agency operates driver license offices across the state, and you can also handle some transactions online or by mail depending on what you need.
Key Takeaways
- Texas DPS issues standard driver's licenses, commercial licenses, and motorcycle endorsements through local driver license offices or online for renewals.
- You can renew online if your license is not expired more than two years, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not had a name change since your last license.
- In-person visits require proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and a completed DL 43 form.
- A standard Texas driver's license costs around $33 for a six-year license, though the exact fee depends on the type of license and whether you are renewing or getting a new one.
- Processing times vary: online renewals typically take one to two weeks, while in-person applications can take several weeks depending on the office's workload.
Getting a new Texas driver's license in person
If you are getting your first Texas license, moving to Texas from another state, or cannot renew online, you will need to visit a DPS driver license office. Bring your completed DL 43 form (the process for a Texas driver's license), which you can fill out before you arrive or at the office.
You will also need to bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return). DPS will take your photograph and fingerprints at the office. You will take a written test on traffic laws and a driving test unless you are transferring a valid license from another state.
Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one. The office will keep it and send it back to that state. Processing typically takes several weeks after your visit, and DPS will mail your new license to the address you provide.
Renewing your Texas driver's license online
Online renewal through the DPS website is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You can renew online if your license is not expired more than two years, you have no medical restrictions noted on your current license, you have not changed your name since your last license was issued, and you are not renewing a commercial driver's license.
Go to the Texas DPS website, select the online renewal option, and enter your driver's license number and date of birth. You will upload a new photograph (taken against a plain background, facing the camera) and pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card. DPS will mail your renewed license to your address on file within one to two weeks.
If you do not meet the online renewal requirements, you will need to renew in person at a driver license office.
Renewing by mail or in person
If you cannot renew online, you can renew by mail if your license is not expired more than two years and you have no medical restrictions. read and complete the DL 43 form, include a new photograph, and mail everything to the address listed on the DPS website along with your fee payment (check or money order only for mail renewals).
Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal — typically four to six weeks from the time DPS receives your materials. If you need your license faster, visit a driver license office in person. In-person renewal requires the same documents as a new license process: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or too damaged to use, you can request a replacement online, by mail, or in person. Online replacement works the same way as online renewal: go to the DPS website, enter your information, upload a new photograph, and pay the fee. Your replacement license will arrive by mail in one to two weeks.
If you lost your license and are concerned about identity theft, you can also file a report with DPS at the time you request the replacement. This creates a record that your old license was lost and may help if someone tries to use it fraudulently.
Adding endorsements or changing your license type
If you want to add a motorcycle endorsement, get a commercial driver's license, or change restrictions on your current license, you will need to visit a driver license office in person. You may need to pass additional written tests or a driving test depending on what you are requesting.
For a motorcycle endorsement, you will take a written test on motorcycle safety and operation, and you will take a riding test on your own motorcycle or one provided by the office. For a commercial license, the requirements are more extensive and include a medical certification form (CVSA Medical Examination Report) and multiple written tests covering commercial vehicle operation.
Finding a DPS driver license office near you
Texas DPS operates driver license offices in most cities and counties. Use the office locator on the DPS website to find the office closest to you, check its hours, and see current wait times. Some offices are busier than others — smaller offices in rural areas often have shorter waits than large urban offices.
Many offices now allow you to make an appointment online instead of walking in. Check whether your local office offers appointments when you look up its location. Appointments typically reduce your wait time significantly, though some offices still operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Texas driver's license last?
A standard Texas driver's license is valid for six years from the date of issue. 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 a new address in Texas?
You can update your address online through the DPS website without renewing your license. Go to the address change section, enter your information, and pay a small fee. Your updated license will be mailed to your new address. You do not have to visit an office unless you also need to renew or make other changes.
Do I need a Real ID compliant license to fly domestically?
Yes, starting in May 2025, you will need a Real ID compliant license or another acceptable form of ID to board a domestic flight. Texas DPS issues Real ID licenses by default, but check your license — it should have a gold star in the upper right corner. If your license does not have the star, you can request a Real ID compliant replacement at a driver license office.
Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than two years?
No, you cannot renew online or by mail if your license has been expired for more than two years. You will need to explore for a new license in person at a driver license office, which includes taking the written and driving tests again unless you are transferring a valid license from another state.
What happens if I do not have a Social Security number?
If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a Texas driver's license. Bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for a number. DPS will note this on your license.