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

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs the only place that issues driver's licenses in Texas. In Waco, that means the DPS Driver License Office located at 1100 Franklin Avenue, Waco, TX 76701. This is the only location in McLennan County where you can take the written test, vision test, and photo for a new license or renewal.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and closed on state holidays. You cannot renew or get a license at any other location — not at a county courthouse, city hall, or tax assessor's office. If you need to know current wait times or check whether the office is operating normally, you can call ahead at the main DPS number or check the Texas DPS website for location-specific information.

Key Takeaways

  • The DPS Driver License Office at 1100 Franklin Avenue in Waco is the only place to get a Texas driver's license in McLennan County.
  • You must bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number or a statement that you do not have one.
  • First-time drivers must pass a written test, vision test, and driving test; renewals may not require all three depending on your age and license type.
  • Bring your current license or ID if you have one, because the office will not issue a temporary license while you wait for the permanent one to arrive by mail.
  • The office does not take walk-ins for road tests; you must schedule a driving test appointment in advance through the DPS website or by phone.

Documents you need to bring

Texas requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The DPS will not process your request without all three, so check what you have before you go.

For proof of identity, bring a U.S. passport, military ID, certified birth certificate, or another document the DPS accepts. A full list is on the Texas DPS website under "Acceptable Documents." If you do not have a passport or military ID, a certified birth certificate (not a photocopy) works. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your current Waco address. The document must be dated within the last 30 days. For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can sign a statement saying so, and Texas will issue a license without one.

What to expect during your visit

When you arrive at the Waco DPS office, check in at the front desk and take a number. Wait times vary by time of day and day of week; mornings and early in the week are usually shorter. You will be called to a window where a DPS employee will review your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee.

If you are getting a license for the first time or your license has been expired for more than two years, you must pass a written test covering Texas traffic laws. The test is on a computer and takes about 30 minutes. You must score at least 70 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day, but you will pay the fee again. After passing the written test, you will take a vision test at the same office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them.

For a new license, you will also need to schedule a separate appointment for the driving test. The DPS does not do road tests at the Waco office on the same day as your written and vision tests. You must book a driving test through the DPS website or by calling ahead. The test takes about 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, following traffic laws, and safe driving.

Fees and payment methods

A five-year driver's license costs $25. A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs more and requires additional testing. A renewal of an existing license also costs $25. The Waco DPS office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. They do not accept checks or money orders.

If you are renewing a license that expired fewer than two years ago, you may not need to retake the written and vision tests. Renewals for drivers over 79 years old have different rules. Ask the DPS employee at the window whether you need to test before you pay the fee.

Timeline for receiving your license

After you complete your visit, the DPS mails your permanent license to the address you provide. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you visit the office. During that time, you do not receive a temporary paper license. If you need to drive before your permanent license arrives, you must use your old license if it is still valid, or you cannot legally drive.

If your permanent license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DPS to report it. Keep your receipt from your visit as proof that you have a pending license. Some employers and banks will accept the receipt as proof of identity while you wait.

Renewing an existing Texas license

If your license is still valid or expired fewer than two years ago, you may renew it in person at the Waco office. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and your fee. You will not need to retake the written test or vision test unless the DPS employee determines you must. Renewals take the same 7 to 10 business days by mail.

Texas also allows some renewals by mail or online if you meet certain conditions. You must have a valid license, be a U.S. citizen, and have no medical conditions that affect your ability to drive. Check the Texas DPS website to see whether you can renew without visiting the office. If you can renew online or by mail, you will not need to go to Waco.

Special situations and restrictions

If you have a suspended or revoked license, you cannot renew it at the Waco office. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with the DPS first. This may involve paying fines, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a suspension period. Contact the DPS to find out what you must do before you visit.

If you are a non-citizen, you may get a license if you have a valid visa or other immigration document. Bring your passport and immigration paperwork along with the other required documents. Texas also issues licenses to people without Social Security numbers; you will sign a statement instead of providing a number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online instead of going to the Waco office?

You may renew online if your license is still valid, you are a U.S. citizen, and you have no medical conditions affecting your driving. Check the Texas DPS website to see whether you meet the requirements. If you do, you can renew without visiting the office and will receive your new license by mail.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day at the Waco office, but you will pay the $25 fee again. You have three attempts within a certain period before you must wait and reapply. Ask the DPS employee for the exact rules when you fail.

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

You do not need an appointment for the written test, vision test, or photo. However, you must schedule a separate appointment for the driving test through the DPS website or by phone. The office does not do road tests without a scheduled time slot.

What if my address changed since my last license?

Bring proof of your new Waco address (a utility bill or lease dated within 30 days) when you renew or get a new license. The DPS will update your address on your new license. You do not need to change your address separately.

Can someone else pick up my license for me?

No. The DPS mails your license directly to the address you provide. You cannot have someone else collect it from the office. If you move before your license arrives, contact the DPS to update your mailing address.