Where to go for your Weslaco driver license

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) runs all driver license services in Weslaco. You cannot get a license from City Hall or any other local office — you must visit a DPS Driver License office. Weslaco has one office located at 1000 South 10th Street, Weslaco, TX 78596. This is the only place in Weslaco where you can explore for, renew, or replace a driver license.

The office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though hours can change seasonally. Before you go, call ahead at the office or check the DPS website to confirm current hours, because some locations close for lunch or have limited afternoon availability. Going without checking first can mean a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • The DPS Driver License office at 1000 South 10th Street is the only place in Weslaco to handle driver license transactions.
  • You will need your Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of identity — the exact documents depend on whether you are explore for the first time or renewing.
  • Texas driver licenses expire every eight years for people under 85, so check your card to see if renewal is due.
  • You can renew by mail or online if your license is not suspended and you meet other conditions, which saves a trip to the office.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies and digital photos on your phone will not be accepted.

Documents you need to bring

What you bring depends on whether you are explore for a new license, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or damaged card. For any transaction, you will need proof of identity (such as a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form), and proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days showing your current address).

If you are explore for your first Texas license, you also need to bring your current out-of-state license if you have one. If you are renewing, bring your expiring or expired license. If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, you do not need the original card, but you may need to sign an affidavit stating it is lost or stolen. Bring originals or certified copies — the DPS office will not accept photocopies or photos on your phone.

If your name has changed since your last license (through marriage, divorce, or court order), bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Without it, you cannot update your name on the new license.

explore for your first Texas driver license

If you have never held a Texas driver license, you must explore in person at the DPS office. You cannot do this by mail or online. Bring all the documents listed above, plus your current out-of-state license if you have one. You will also need to pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs, a vision test, and a driving test. The office staff can tell you what to study for the written test and whether you need to schedule the driving test on a separate day.

The written and vision tests happen at the office. The driving test may happen the same day or you may need to schedule it separately — ask when you arrive. You will need to bring a vehicle for the driving test, and it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. If you do not have a vehicle available, ask the office about alternatives or rescheduling.

Renewing your driver license

If your Texas license is not suspended and you have not had a major change in your medical status, you can renew by mail or online without visiting the office. To renew online, go to the DPS website, enter your license number and other identifying information, and follow the steps. The new license will be mailed to your address on file. Online renewal takes about two weeks from the time you submit.

To renew by mail, request a renewal form from the DPS office or read it from their website, fill it out, and mail it with your documents and payment. Mail renewal also takes about two weeks after DPS receives your envelope. If you prefer to renew in person or if you do not meet the conditions for mail or online renewal, visit the office with your expiring or expired license and the documents listed above.

Your Texas driver license is valid for eight years if you are under 85 years old. Check the expiration date on your current license to see when you need to renew. Renewing before your license expires is easier than renewing after it has expired, though you can renew up to two years after expiration.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license

If your license is lost, stolen, or too damaged to use, you can replace it at the DPS office. Bring your proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You do not need the original damaged card, but if your license was stolen, the office may ask you to sign a statement saying so. Replacement licenses are usually issued the same day or within a few days.

If your license was stolen, you may also want to report it to local police and monitor your credit, since a stolen ID can be misused. The DPS office can advise you on next steps specific to theft.

Fees and payment methods

Driver license fees in Texas vary depending on the type of transaction and how long the license is valid. A standard eight-year license costs one amount; a renewal costs less. The DPS office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card. Ask the office for the exact fee for your transaction before you explore, since fees can change. If you are renewing by mail, include payment with your envelope.

Payment is required at the time of your transaction, whether you visit in person or submit by mail. Keep your receipt as proof of payment. If you are unsure about the exact amount, call the Weslaco office ahead of time so you bring the correct payment method and amount.

What to expect on the day of your visit

Arrive early, especially on Fridays or near the end of the month when the office is busier. Bring all your original documents — do not rely on the office having copies. The staff will review your documents, take your photo, and collect payment. If you are explore for a new license, you will take the written and vision tests at the office. The driving test may happen the same day or you may schedule it for another time.

Processing times vary. A replacement or renewal can be done the same day. A new license process may take longer if the driving test is scheduled separately. Ask the staff for an estimate when you arrive. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within one to two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online if it is expired?

Yes, you can renew online up to two years after your license expires. However, if your license has been suspended or revoked, or if you have certain medical conditions, you must renew in person at the office. Check the DPS website or call the Weslaco office to confirm you meet the conditions for online renewal.

What if I fail the written or driving test?

You can retake the test. The office will tell you when you can come back — usually within a few days. You do not need to bring all your documents again, just your ID. You will pay a retest fee, which is less than the full license fee.

How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?

Most new licenses arrive within one to two weeks of your visit or submission. Mail renewal and online renewal also take about two weeks. If you need a license urgently, ask the office whether they can issue a temporary paper license the same day while you wait for the permanent card.

Do I need an appointment to visit the DPS office in Weslaco?

Appointment policies vary by location and change over time. Call the Weslaco office or check the DPS website to see whether appointments are required or recommended. Even if walk-ins are accepted, arriving early reduces wait time.

What if I moved to Weslaco from another state?

You must get a Texas driver license within 30 days of moving to the state. Visit the DPS office with your out-of-state license, proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency in Weslaco. You will take the written, vision, and driving tests. Bring your out-of-state license so the office can see your driving history.