What you need to bring to the Texas DMV
To get a new Texas driver's license or renew an existing one, you will need to bring specific documents to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The exact documents depend on whether you are getting your first license, renewing, or replacing a lost one.
For any transaction, bring a document that proves your identity — a passport, birth certificate, or consulate ID card. You will also need proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form. Bring two documents that prove your current Texas address: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days both work.
If you are renewing by mail or online, you may not need to bring documents in person — but you still need to have them ready to photograph or upload. If you are renewing in person at a DPS office, bring the documents listed above plus your current license.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and two documents showing your current Texas address to any in-person DPS visit.
- Texas allows online renewal for some drivers, mail renewal for others, and in-person renewal at a DPS office — which option you can use depends on your license type and how long it has been expired.
- A standard Texas driver's license costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, though fees vary slightly if you are getting a Real ID or replacing a lost license.
- DPS offices do not take appointments in most locations, so arriving early in the day typically means a shorter wait.
- If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew by mail or online and must visit a DPS office in person.
Renewing online or by mail instead of in person
Texas allows you to renew your driver's license online through the Texas DPS website if your license is still valid or expired less than two years. You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a payment method. The online process takes about 10 minutes and costs $16 for a four-year renewal or $32 for an eight-year renewal.
Mail renewal is also available under the same conditions — your license must not be expired more than two years. You can request a mail renewal form from the Texas DPS website or call 1-888-589-6789. Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal, typically two to three weeks after DPS receives your form and payment.
If your license has been expired more than two years, you cannot use either method. You must visit a DPS office in person and bring all the documents listed above, including proof of identity and address.
Getting a Real ID or standard license
Texas offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a Real ID. A Real ID has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. A standard license does not have the star and cannot be used for these purposes after May 7, 2025, though you can still use it to drive.
A Real ID costs $32 for a four-year license or $64 for an eight-year license — $16 more than a standard license at each term length. To get a Real ID, you must visit a DPS office in person and bring the same documents as for a standard license, plus one additional document that proves your current address (so three address documents total instead of two).
If you already have a Real ID and are renewing, you can renew online or by mail without visiting an office, just as you would for a standard license. The renewal will maintain your Real ID status.
How to find a DPS office and what to expect
The Texas DPS website has a location finder where you can search for the nearest office by city or ZIP code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have extended hours or Saturday hours. Call ahead or check the website for your specific location's hours, as they vary.
Most DPS offices do not take appointments. You arrive, take a number, and wait. Arriving early in the morning typically means a shorter wait than arriving in the afternoon. Bring all required documents, your payment method (cash, debit card, or credit card), and be prepared to have your photo taken and your signature recorded.
The entire process at the office usually takes 15 to 45 minutes depending on how busy the location is. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready after your visit, and your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it at a DPS office or online if your license is not expired more than two years. The replacement fee is $11 for a standard license or $27 for a Real ID, which is less than the cost of a full renewal.
To replace online, visit the Texas DPS website and select the replacement option. You will need your license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a payment method. Your replacement license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
If you are replacing a lost or stolen license in person, bring your documents proving identity and address (the same as for renewal) plus a police report if your license was stolen. If your license is damaged but you still have it, bring it with you to the DPS office.
License requirements for new drivers and teenagers
If you are getting your first Texas driver's license, you must visit a DPS office in person. You will need to pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, a vision test, and a driving test. Bring all required identity and address documents plus your Social Security card or proof of your number.
Texas allows teenagers to get a learner's permit at age 14 and a provisional license at age 16. A provisional license has restrictions — for example, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to work or school, and you cannot have passengers under 21 unless a licensed adult is in the car. These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or hold the license for 18 months without violations, whichever comes first.
Teenagers explore for a learner's permit or provisional license must bring a parent or guardian to the DPS office. The adult must bring their own ID and proof of relationship to the teenager, such as a birth certificate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license if I moved out of state?
No. To renew a Texas license, you must be a Texas resident. If you moved out of state, you need to get a driver's license from your new state. If you plan to move back to Texas, you can get a new Texas license when you return.
What happens if my license expires while I am waiting for my renewal to arrive?
Your temporary paper license is valid while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail. Keep the paper license with you while driving. Once your permanent license arrives, the paper license is no longer needed.
Do I need a Real ID to drive in Texas?
No. A standard Texas driver's license is valid for driving. You only need a Real ID if you plan to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025. For driving within Texas or other states, a standard license works.
How much does a Texas driver's license cost in 2025?
A standard four-year license costs $16, and an eight-year license costs $32. A Real ID costs $32 for four years or $64 for eight years. Replacement licenses cost $11 for standard or $27 for Real ID. Fees do not change based on your age or driving record.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will pay the test fee again each time you take it. Most DPS offices allow you to schedule another test the same day or the next business day.