Where to go for a Texas driver's license in Garland

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) operates the driver's license office in Garland. You cannot get a Texas driver's license from any other location in the city — you must visit the DPS office directly or use their online services for certain transactions.

The Garland DPS office is located at 1102 West Avenue D, Garland, TX 75040. This is the only full-service driver's license office in Garland. You can visit in person to explore for a new license, renew an existing one, or handle other license-related matters.

Before you go, check the current wait times and office hours on the Texas DPS website. Hours vary by day and season, and some services may require an appointment. Many people find that visiting early in the morning or mid-week results in shorter waits.

Key Takeaways

  • The Garland DPS office at 1102 West Avenue D is the only place in the city to get a Texas driver's license in person.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and proof of lawful presence to obtain a new license.
  • Texas allows you to renew your driver's license online or by mail if your license is not expired and you meet certain conditions, which may save you a trip to the office.
  • The cost of a driver's license varies depending on whether you are getting a new license, renewing, or replacing a lost one.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for most proof requirements.

Documents you need to bring

Texas requires four types of documents before you can get a driver's license: proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of lawful presence in the United States.

For proof of identity, bring an original or certified copy of one of these: a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, a consular report of birth abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization. A photocopy will not work. If you were born outside the United States, your birth certificate must be certified by the issuing authority.

For proof of residency, bring a document showing your current Garland address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, an insurance policy, or a government document with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. A utility bill in your name is the fastest option.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security Administration letter. If you do not have your Social Security number, you will need to explore for one before you can get a driver's license.

For proof of lawful presence, bring your U.S. passport, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Permanent Resident Card, an Employment Authorization Document, or a visa with your I-94 arrival/departure record. If you are a U.S. citizen, your passport is the simplest option.

The cost and how long it takes

A new Texas driver's license costs $33 and is valid for six years. If you are renewing an existing license, the cost is also $33. If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, the cost is $11. These prices do not include any additional fees for expedited processing if you choose that option.

Processing time at the Garland DPS office is typically one to two hours from the time you arrive, though this varies based on how busy the office is that day. Your license will be mailed to the address you provide, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for the permanent card.

If you need your license faster, Texas DPS offers expedited processing for an additional fee, though this is not always necessary. The temporary license is valid for driving while your permanent card is in the mail.

Renewing or replacing your license without visiting the office

You do not have to visit the Garland DPS office if you are renewing a license that is not yet expired. Texas allows online renewal through the DPS website if you meet certain conditions: your license must not be expired, you must not have any medical conditions that require a new photo, and you must not have changed your name since your last license.

Online renewal costs $33 and takes about 10 business days. Your new license will be mailed to you. You can also renew by mail by downloading the process from the DPS website, filling it out, and mailing it with a check or money order to the address on the form.

If your license has already expired, you must visit the Garland office in person to renew it. The same applies if you need to change your address, update your photo, or add or remove restrictions.

What to expect when you arrive

When you arrive at the Garland DPS office, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. You will wait until your number is called. Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they are organized and straightforward to hand over.

The DPS employee will review your documents, take your photo, and ask you questions about your address and any medical conditions. You will then take a written test on traffic laws and road signs. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at no extra cost.

After you pass the test, you will pay the fee and receive your temporary license. The employee will tell you when to expect your permanent license in the mail. Keep your temporary license safe — you will need it for driving until the permanent card arrives.

If you are under 18 or have a commercial license

If you are under 18, you must have a parent or guardian present at the Garland DPS office. You will also need to complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for a certain period before you can get a full license. The requirements vary by age, so check the Texas DPS website for the exact rules that explore to you.

If you need a commercial driver's license (CDL), the process is different and more involved. You must pass additional tests and provide medical certification. Commercial licenses are also issued at the Garland DPS office, but you should call ahead to confirm that the office handles CDL applications on the day you plan to visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Texas driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Texas requires proof of a Social Security number to issue a driver's license. If you do not have one, you must explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license. This process can take several weeks.

What if I lost my documents and cannot find them?

You can request certified copies of documents like your birth certificate from the issuing authority. For example, if you need a certified birth certificate, contact the vital records office in the county or state where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks and costs a small fee. In the meantime, you cannot get a driver's license without the original or certified copy.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Garland DPS office?

Appointments are not always required, but the Texas DPS website allows you to schedule one online. Scheduling an appointment can reduce your wait time. If you do not have an appointment, you can still visit, but you may wait longer during busy times.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day at no extra cost. You will have time to study the materials before your next attempt. If you fail again, you can return another day to try again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.

How long is a Texas driver's license valid?

A standard Texas driver's license is valid for six years. Senior citizens (85 and older) can get a license valid for five years. Commercial driver's licenses have different validity periods depending on medical certification requirements.