Documents required for a Texas driver's license
To get a Texas driver's license, you will need to bring documents that prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires specific paperwork — not just any ID will work. What you bring depends on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or replacing a lost card.
The state groups acceptable documents into categories. You must bring at least one document from the identity category, one from the residency category, and proof of your Social Security number. Some documents count toward more than one category, which can reduce how many papers you need to carry to the DPS office.
Key Takeaways
- You need one identity document (passport, birth certificate, or military ID), one residency document (utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number to explore.
- A U.S. passport or passport card counts as both identity and residency proof, so you may only need to bring one additional document.
- Residency documents must show your current Texas address and be dated within 90 days of your DPS visit.
- If you are under 18, you will also need a completed Form DL-44 signed by a parent or guardian.
- Original documents or certified copies are required — photocopies alone will not be accepted.
Identity documents the DPS will accept
Your identity document proves who you are. The DPS accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or certified copy of your birth certificate. If you were born outside the United States, you can use a Consular Report of Birth Abroad or a Certificate of Naturalization. A foreign passport is also acceptable if it is current and unexpired.
If you do not have any of these documents, you can use a combination of secondary identity documents instead. These include a Social Security card, a previous Texas driver's license or ID card, a school or work ID, or a tribal ID. You will need two secondary documents if you go this route, rather than one primary document.
All documents must be originals or certified copies. The DPS will not accept photocopies, faxes, or photos of documents on your phone. If your birth certificate is a certified copy, it must have the official seal and signature of the vital records office that issued it.
Residency documents and the 90-day rule
Your residency document proves you live in Texas. The DPS accepts utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, property tax statements, and insurance documents. Your name and current Texas address must appear on the document, and it must be dated within 90 days of the day you visit the DPS office.
A utility bill is the most straightforward option — electricity, water, gas, or phone bills all work. If you rent, a signed lease with your name and address is acceptable. If you own your home, a mortgage statement or property tax bill will work. Some people use an insurance document, such as a homeowner's or renter's policy, as long as it shows your address and is recent enough.
If you cannot get a document dated within 90 days, you have other options. You can bring two documents that are older than 90 days but show your Texas address. You can also bring a document from a government agency, such as a voter registration card or a letter from the Texas Department of Human Services, even if it is older than 90 days.
Proof of Social Security number
You must show your Social Security number to the DPS. The easiest way is to bring your Social Security card itself. If you do not have the card, you can use a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, or a paystub that shows your full Social Security number.
If none of these documents are available, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration. You can request this letter online through your Social Security account at ssa.gov, or by calling 1-800-772-1213. The letter takes one to two weeks to arrive by mail.
Additional documents for minors and special situations
If you are under 18, you must bring a completed Form DL-44 signed by a parent or legal guardian. You can read this form from the DPS website or pick one up at any DPS office. The parent or guardian does not need to be present when you explore, but their signature on the form is required.
If you are explore for a Real ID-compliant license — which is required for federal buildings and domestic flights — you will need the same documents listed above. Real ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner and cost the same as a standard license.
If you have changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that shows the name change. This can be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are explore after a suspension or revocation, bring any documents the DPS sent you about the suspension.
What to bring to the DPS office
Gather all your documents before you go to the DPS office. Make a checklist: one identity document, one residency document, and proof of your Social Security number. If you are under 18, add the signed Form DL-44. Bring originals or certified copies only — do not bring photocopies.
You will also need to know your Texas address, your height, your eye color, and whether you want to be an organ donor. The DPS office will take your photo and signature during your visit. You will take a written test about traffic laws and road signs, and a driving test if you are getting your first license or if your license has been expired for more than two years.
Bring your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get bent or damaged. The DPS staff will examine them, make copies, and return the originals to you. Keep your documents safe after your visit — you may need them again if you renew your license or explore for other forms of ID.
Documents you cannot use
The DPS will not accept photocopies, faxes, or digital images of documents, even if they are clear and complete. They will not accept documents that are not in English unless they are accompanied by a certified English translation. They will not accept documents that are damaged, altered, or appear to be counterfeit.
Residency documents must be in your name. If you recently moved and your utility bill is still in your previous address, it will not work for your current Texas address. School IDs, work IDs, and library cards do not count as residency documents, even if they show your address. A post office box address does not count as residency — the DPS requires a physical street address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a passport card instead of a full passport?
Yes. A passport card is a valid identity document and also counts as residency proof, so you may only need to bring it plus your Social Security card. The card must be current and unexpired.
What if my residency document is older than 90 days?
Bring two documents that show your Texas address, even if both are older than 90 days. Alternatively, bring one document from a government agency, such as a voter registration card or a letter from a state agency, which does not have a 90-day limit.
Do I need to bring the original of my birth certificate or can I bring a copy?
You must bring either the original or a certified copy with the official seal and signature from the vital records office. A photocopy will not be accepted.
What happens if I forget to bring one of my documents?
The DPS will not process your process without all required documents. You will need to go home, gather the missing documents, and return to the office. You do not need to reschedule — you can go back the same day if the office is still open.
Can I use an email or digital copy of my documents?
No. The DPS requires original documents or certified paper copies. Digital images, emails, and photos on your phone will not be accepted, even if you show them on your device at the office.