Where to go for a Texas driver's license in Amarillo
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs the driver's license program in Texas. In Amarillo, you get your license at the DPS Driver License Office located at 3001 S. Coulter Street, Amarillo, TX 79106. This is the only location in Amarillo where you can take the written test, vision test, and photo for a new license or renewal.
The office is open Monday through Friday. Hours change seasonally, so call ahead at (806) 356-2600 or check the DPS website before you go. Wait times vary by time of day and day of week — early mornings and mid-week visits typically have shorter lines than afternoons and Fridays.
You can also renew your license by mail or online if you meet certain conditions, which is faster than going in person. The DPS website shows which renewals are may be able to access for mail or online renewal based on your license type and how long it has been expired.
Key Takeaways
- The DPS Driver License Office at 3001 S. Coulter Street is the only place in Amarillo to get a new license or take the required tests.
- You need proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number — the DPS website lists which documents count for each.
- New licenses cost money that varies by license type and how long you want it valid; the DPS website shows current fees.
- If you are renewing and your license has not been expired for more than two years, you may be able to renew by mail or online instead of visiting in person.
- Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies and digital photos do not count as proof.
What documents you need to bring
Texas requires three types of proof before you can get a driver's license: identity, residency, and Social Security number. You must bring originals or certified copies — the DPS does not accept photocopies or photos of documents on your phone.
For proof of identity, the DPS accepts a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a foreign passport with a U.S. visa. A Social Security card alone does not count as proof of identity. If you do not have one of these documents, the DPS website lists other documents that can work in combination.
For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill with your name and current Amarillo address. The document must be dated within the last 30 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency.
For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a license, but you will need to bring additional documents — ask the DPS office what those are when you call.
The steps to take at the DPS office
When you arrive at the Amarillo DPS office, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. You will wait for your number to be called, then go to a window where a staff member will review your documents and take your photo. This part usually takes 10 to 20 minutes once you reach the window.
Next, you will go to another area to take the written test, which covers Texas traffic laws and road signs. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You can take the test on a computer or on paper. If you fail, you can retake it the same day, but you may have to wait and pay a retest fee.
After the written test, you will take the vision test. An employee will check your eyesight using a machine. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you will not be able to get a license that day.
If you pass both tests, you will pay the fee and receive a temporary paper license. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid for driving while you wait.
Costs and how long licenses are valid
A new Texas driver's license costs money that depends on how long you want it to be valid. A license valid for four years costs less than a license valid for eight years. The DPS website shows the exact current fees, which can change.
Most adult licenses are valid for either four or eight years from the date you receive them. If you are under 18, your license will expire on your 18th birthday, and you will need to renew it then. If you are over 85, your license is valid for four years and requires a vision test at renewal.
You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must explore for a new license instead of renewing — this means taking the written and vision tests again.
When you can renew by mail or online instead
If your Texas driver's license has not been expired for more than two years, you may be able to renew by mail or online without going to the DPS office. You cannot renew by mail or online if you need to change your address, if you have certain medical conditions, or if your license was suspended or revoked.
To renew online, go to the DPS website and follow the steps. You will need your license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a payment method. The online renewal takes a few minutes, and your new license will arrive by mail.
To renew by mail, read the renewal form from the DPS website, fill it out, and mail it with your current license and a check or money order to the address on the form. Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal — allow two to three weeks for processing plus mailing time.
What to do if you have a suspended or revoked license
If your Texas license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward go to the DPS office and get a new one. You must first resolve the reason for the suspension or revocation. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or a DWI conviction.
Contact the DPS at (806) 356-2600 and ask why your license is suspended or revoked. They will tell you what you need to do to clear it. This might mean paying a fine, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a suspension period. Once you have resolved the issue, you can go to the office and renew or replace your license.
If you are not sure whether your license is suspended, you can check the DPS website by entering your license number and date of birth. This tells you the status of your license and whether you can drive legally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Texas license if I do not have a Social Security number?
Yes. You can get a license without a Social Security number, but you must bring additional documents to prove your identity and residency. Call the Amarillo DPS office at (806) 356-2600 and ask which documents you need to bring. If you are an immigrant, the DPS can issue a license regardless of immigration status.
What if I lost my license or it was stolen?
You can replace a lost or stolen license at the DPS office. Bring your proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number just as you would for a new license. You will pay a replacement fee, which is less than the cost of a new license. You will receive a temporary paper license and your permanent license by mail.
How do I change my address on my license without renewing?
You can change your address at the DPS office without renewing your license if your license is still valid. Bring proof of your new Amarillo address and your current license. The DPS will update your address and issue a new license with the same expiration date. There is usually a small fee for this change.
Can I take the written test in Spanish?
Yes. The DPS offers the written test in Spanish and several other languages. Tell the staff member at the office that you want to take the test in Spanish, and they will give you the test in that language. The vision and road sign portions of the test are the same regardless of language.
What if I fail the written or vision test?
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day, but you will pay a retest fee. If you fail the vision test, you cannot get a license that day. You will need to see an eye doctor, get glasses or contacts if needed, and come back to the office to retake the vision test. There is usually a retest fee for the vision test as well.