What the Texas Department of Public Safety handles
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the state agency that issues driver's licenses and ID cards. You cannot get a Texas driver's license from a local courthouse, city hall, or county office — DPS is the only place that issues them. DPS also handles renewals, replacements, and changes to your license or ID.
DPS operates driver license offices across Texas. You visit one of these offices in person to explore, take your test, or handle most transactions. Some offices are busier than others, and wait times vary by location and time of day.
You can find the nearest DPS driver license office, check current wait times, and schedule an appointment on the official DPS website. Having an appointment typically reduces your wait time, though walk-ins are accepted at most locations.
Key Takeaways
- The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the only agency that issues driver's licenses and ID cards in Texas.
- You must visit a DPS driver license office in person to explore for a new license, renew an expired one, or make changes to your current license.
- DPS offices are located throughout Texas, and you can find the nearest one and check wait times on the official DPS website.
- Scheduling an appointment before you visit usually reduces your wait time, though walk-ins are accepted.
- You will need to bring specific documents to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number when you explore.
What documents you need to bring
DPS requires you to bring documents that prove your identity, your Social Security number, and your Texas residency. The exact documents depend on whether you are explore for the first time, renewing, or replacing a lost or stolen license.
For proof of identity, DPS accepts a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a previous Texas driver's license. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement showing your current Texas address. Your name on the residency document should match the name on your identity document, or you will need to bring additional paperwork explaining the difference.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or be prepared to state the number at the office. DPS verifies this information with the Social Security Administration.
If you are renewing a license that is not yet expired, you may be able to renew by mail or online instead of visiting an office. Check the DPS website to see which renewals may have access to for mail or online renewal.
The steps to get a new Texas driver's license
If you are explore for a Texas driver's license for the first time, you will need to pass a written test, a vision test, and a driving test. The process takes multiple visits unless you pass all three tests on the same day, which is rare.
First, visit a DPS driver license office with your documents. Staff will verify your identity, residency, and Social Security number, then give you the written test. This test covers Texas traffic laws and safe driving practices. You must score at least 70 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day.
After you pass the written test, you will take a vision test at the same office. If you pass, DPS will issue you a learner's permit. This permit allows you to drive with a licensed adult in the car while you practice for the driving test.
Once you have your learner's permit, you can schedule a driving test appointment. During the driving test, a DPS examiner rides with you and evaluates your ability to control the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. If you pass, you receive your driver's license on the spot.
Renewing or replacing an existing license
If your Texas driver's license is expired or expiring soon, you can renew it. If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it. These processes are faster than explore for a new license because you do not need to retake the written and driving tests.
For a renewal, check the DPS website to see if you are may be able to access to renew by mail or online. Many people can renew without visiting an office. If you must visit an office, bring your expired or expiring license plus proof of residency. The office will take a new photo and issue your renewed license.
For a replacement, visit a DPS driver license office with your documents. Tell the staff whether your license was lost, stolen, or damaged. They will verify your information, take a new photo, and issue a replacement license. You do not need to retake any tests.
Changing your name or address on your license
If you get married, divorced, or legally change your name, you must update your driver's license. If you move to a new address in Texas, you must update your license within a certain timeframe. DPS requires you to visit an office to make these changes.
For a name change, bring your current license, proof of your new name (such as a marriage certificate or court order), and proof of residency at your current address. DPS will issue a new license with your updated name.
For an address change, bring your current license and proof of your new Texas address. DPS will issue a new license with your updated address. If you move out of Texas, you will need to get a license from your new state.
What to expect at the DPS office
When you arrive at a DPS driver license office, check in at the front desk. If you have an appointment, tell staff your name and appointment time. If you are walking in, you will receive a number and join the queue.
Wait times vary. Some offices have wait times of 15 minutes; others may have waits of two hours or more, especially during lunch hours or late afternoon. Checking the DPS website before you visit shows typical wait times for that location and time of day.
When your number is called, go to the window. The staff member will review your documents, ask you questions to verify your information, and explain what happens next. If you are explore for a new license, they will administer the written test at that window or direct you to a testing station.
Bring all required documents. If you are missing a document, staff may not be able to process your process, and you will need to return another day. Having everything ready the first time saves you a trip.
Costs and payment methods
Texas driver's license and ID card fees vary depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard driver's license costs less than a commercial driver's license. Renewal fees are lower than fees for a new license.
DPS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may accept checks, but cash or a card is safest. Ask the office staff what payment methods they accept when you arrive.
If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, the replacement fee is the same as a renewal fee. If you are changing your name or address, there is usually no additional fee if your license is not yet expired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I schedule an appointment online?
Yes. The DPS website has an appointment scheduling tool where you can choose your location, date, and time. You can also call the DPS customer service line to schedule by phone. Having an appointment usually reduces your wait time, but walk-ins are still accepted at most offices.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake the written test the same day or return to the office another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though you may have to pay a fee each time. Study the Texas Driver Handbook before you retake the test — it covers all the material on the exam.
How long does a Texas driver's license last?
A standard driver's license is valid for eight years. Commercial driver's licenses have different validity periods. Your license will show the expiration date on the front. You can renew it up to one year before it expires.
Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than a year?
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you may need to retake the written test and vision test, though not the driving test. Contact DPS or visit the website to confirm the requirements for your situation before you go to the office.
What if I lost my Social Security card and cannot bring it to the office?
You can state your Social Security number at the office instead of bringing the card. DPS will verify the number with the Social Security Administration. Bring another form of identity and proof of residency as usual.