Where to go for a Texas driver's license in Lubbock
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs the driver's license program in Texas. In Lubbock, you get your license at the DPS Driver License Office located at 5302 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79412. This is the only location in Lubbock where you can explore for, renew, or replace a Texas driver's license.
The office is open Monday through Friday. Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., though the office closes for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. You cannot walk in without an appointment — you must schedule one ahead of time through the DPS website or by calling 1-888-589-6900. Wait times for appointments vary, but scheduling in advance prevents you from arriving to a closed office or a full day.
If you cannot reach the Lubbock office directly, the statewide phone line can help you schedule or answer questions about what documents to bring. Have your phone ready with your Social Security number and date of birth when you call.
Key Takeaways
- The DPS Driver License Office at 5302 Avenue Q in Lubbock is the only place to get a Texas driver's license in the city, and you must schedule an appointment before you go.
- You need a Social Security number, proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of lawful presence in the United States to get a license.
- The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., with a lunch break from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- You can schedule an appointment online at the DPS website or by calling 1-888-589-6900.
- The cost of a standard five-year driver's license is $45, and you will receive your license in the mail within two weeks if you pass the test.
What documents you need to bring
Texas requires four categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of lawful presence. You cannot get a license without all four.
For proof of identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport, a military ID, or a state ID from another state. A photocopy or a photo on your phone will not work — the document must be the original or an official certified copy.
For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number on it. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to explore for one first through the Social Security Administration.
For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, a lease, a mortgage statement, or a property tax bill dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and your current Lubbock address. A bank statement or credit card statement will not work.
For proof of lawful presence, bring your passport, a birth certificate, a military ID, a permanent resident card, or an employment authorization document (EAD). If you are a non-citizen, you will need to show one of these documents to prove you are legally in the United States.
The written test and driving test
If you are getting your first Texas license or your license has been expired for more than two years, you must pass a written test and a driving test. The written test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the DPS website.
The written test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You take the test on a computer at the DPS office. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment.
If you pass the written test, you will take the driving test when ready after. A DPS examiner will ride with you in your own vehicle and watch you perform basic driving tasks — starting the car, backing up, turning, parking, and stopping. The examiner is looking for safe driving habits and your ability to follow traffic laws. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it at a later appointment.
If you are renewing an expired license or your license is still valid, you may not need to take either test. Ask when you schedule your appointment whether tests are required for your situation.
Cost and how long it takes
A standard five-year Texas driver's license costs $45. If you want a Real ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic flights), the cost is $60. You pay at the DPS office when you complete your appointment.
After you pass your tests or complete your renewal, the DPS mails your license to the address you provided. Standard delivery takes 7 to 14 days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.
If you need your license faster, you can pay an extra fee for expedited mail, though this is not always available. Ask the examiner at your appointment whether expedited delivery is an option.
Real ID versus standard license
Texas offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a Real ID-compliant license. The difference matters if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building.
A standard license costs $45 and is valid for five years. You can use it to drive, but you cannot use it to board a domestic flight or enter a federal courthouse or military base. You will need a passport or other federal ID instead.
A Real ID license costs $60 and is also valid for five years. It has a small star in the top right corner. You can use it to board a domestic flight and enter federal buildings without a passport. If you fly often or visit federal offices, a Real ID license saves you from carrying a passport every time.
You can upgrade from a standard license to a Real ID license at any time by visiting the DPS office and paying the difference. You do not need to wait for your current license to expire.
What to do if you fail the driving test
If you do not pass the driving test on your first try, you can retake it. You do not have to retake the written test — only the driving test. You will need to schedule another appointment at the DPS office, which may be several days or weeks away depending on availability.
Between attempts, practice the skills the examiner said you need to work on. Common reasons people fail include not checking mirrors, not signaling turns, speeding, or not stopping completely at stop signs. Ask the examiner for specific feedback before you leave.
There is no limit to how many times you can retake the driving test, but you will pay the license fee again each time you schedule a new appointment. Once you pass, you will not pay again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I schedule an appointment online or do I have to call?
You can do both. The DPS website has an online appointment scheduler where you can pick a date and time. If you prefer to call, the statewide number is 1-888-589-6900. Online scheduling is usually faster because you do not have to wait on hold.
What if I do not have a birth certificate?
You can use a passport, military ID, or state ID from another state instead. If you do not have any of these, you will need to get a birth certificate from the Texas Vital Statistics office or the state where you were born before you can get a driver's license.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card or can I bring a pay stub?
Either one works. You can bring your Social Security card, a W-2, a 1099, or a recent pay stub with your full Social Security number. The DPS office will accept any of these as proof of your Social Security number.
How long does it take to get a license after I pass the test?
The DPS mails your license within 7 to 14 days of your appointment. You receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use to drive while you wait for the plastic card. If you need it faster, ask about expedited mail options when you are at your appointment.
Can I renew my license by mail or online?
It depends on your situation. If your license is still valid and you have not had any violations, you may be able to renew by mail. Call the DPS office or check the website to see whether you are may be able to access. If you need to take a new photo or update your information, you will need to visit the office in person.