The documents Texas requires depend on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or replacing a lost card
Texas groups its document requirements into three paths: first-time applicants, renewals, and replacements. The state calls these different processes, and each one asks for different paperwork. You cannot use a renewal form if you are getting your first license, and you cannot use a first-time process if your license straightforward expired. Knowing which path you are on saves you a trip back home for a forgotten document.
All three paths require proof of identity and proof of Texas residency. Beyond that, the documents split. This guide walks you through what you need for each one, where to get documents if you do not have them, and what happens if a document is missing when you show up at the Department of Public Safety office.
Key Takeaways
- First-time applicants need a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, two proofs of Texas residency, and a completed DL-44 form.
- Renewals require your current or expired license plus proof of residency, and can often be done by mail or online if your license expired fewer than five years ago.
- Replacements for lost or stolen licenses need your current address and a completed DL-44, but not your birth certificate.
- Proofs of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days — you need two of them for first-time applicants.
- If you do not have a birth certificate, you can order one from the Texas Vital Statistics Unit or the state where you were born.
Documents for a first-time Texas driver's license
If you have never held a Texas driver's license, you need six things: a completed DL-44 form, proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, proof of Texas residency (two documents), and a completed DL-44 form. You can read the DL-44 from the Texas Department of Public Safety website or pick one up at any DPS office.
For proof of identity, bring your birth certificate, U.S. passport, passport card, or a document issued by a U.S. state or territory that shows your name, date of birth, and a photo. A school ID does not count. If your birth certificate is from outside Texas, bring the original or a certified copy — a photocopy will not work. If you were born in Texas, you can bring either the original or a certified copy.
For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a document from the Social Security Administration. A tax return with your SSN on it counts. If you do not have any of these, you can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration office in your area.
For proof of Texas residency, bring two documents dated within the last 90 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank or credit card statement, property tax bill, or a letter from a government agency. Both documents must show your name and current address. If you live with someone else and do not have bills in your name, a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus a copy of that bill, can work as one of your two proofs.
Documents for renewing a Texas driver's license
Renewals are simpler than first-time applications. You need your current or expired license and one proof of Texas residency dated within the last 90 days. The same documents that work for first-time applicants work here: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, bank statement, property tax bill, or government letter.
If your license expired fewer than five years ago, you can renew by mail or online without going to a DPS office. The Texas DPS website has a tool that tells you whether you are may be able to access for online renewal. If you are, you can upload your documents and pay the fee without leaving home. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must go in person and bring your documents with you.
If your name has changed since your last license — through marriage, divorce, or a court order — bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change. This can be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will also need to complete a new DL-44 form instead of a renewal form.
Documents for replacing a lost or stolen license
If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you need a completed DL-44 form and one proof of Texas residency dated within the last 90 days. You do not need your birth certificate or proof of your Social Security number for a replacement. The DPS office will look up your information from your original process.
If your license was stolen, you can report it to the DPS at the same time you explore for a replacement. Bring a police report if you have one, though it is not required. The DPS will flag your old license number so it cannot be used.
How to get documents you do not have
If you do not have a birth certificate, order one from the Texas Vital Statistics Unit if you were born in Texas, or from the vital records office in the state where you were born. Texas orders take about two weeks by mail. If you need it faster, some counties offer in-person pickup. The cost varies by state but is usually between $20 and $35.
If you do not have a Social Security card, visit your nearest Social Security Administration office or call 1-800-772-1213. You can also explore online at ssa.gov. Bring a photo ID and proof of citizenship or legal residency. A replacement card is free and usually arrives within two weeks.
If you do not have any documents showing your Texas residency, ask your landlord, utility company, or bank for a statement or letter. Most will provide one for free if you ask. If you rent and your name is not on the lease, ask your landlord to write a notarized letter confirming you live there, and bring a copy of the lease as your second proof.
What happens if you show up without all your documents
The DPS office will not process your process if you are missing required documents. They will give you a list of what you need and send you home. You can come back once you have everything. There is no penalty for returning with the correct documents — you do not lose your place in line or have to pay again.
Some DPS offices are busier than others. If you are going in person, check the wait times on the Texas DPS website before you go. You can also make an appointment online for some locations, which can cut your wait time significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?
No, not if you were born outside Texas. You need the original or a certified copy. If you were born in Texas, either the original or a certified copy works. A certified copy has an official seal and signature from the vital records office.
What if my address on my birth certificate does not match my current address?
That is fine. Your birth certificate proves your identity and date of birth, not your current address. You prove your current address with separate documents like a utility bill or lease. Your birth certificate address does not have to match.
Can I use a bank statement from my online bank if it does not have my address printed on it?
No. Your proof of residency must show both your name and your current address. If your online bank statement does not print your address, read and print a statement that does, or use a different document like a utility bill or lease.
Do I need an original Social Security card or can I bring a photo of it?
You can bring a photo of your Social Security card, or bring the card itself. You can also bring a W-2, 1099, or other document that shows your SSN instead. The DPS office just needs to see proof that the number belongs to you.
What if I was born outside the United States?
You need a U.S. passport, passport card, or a document issued by a U.S. state or territory that shows your name, date of birth, and photo. You also need proof of your legal residency status in the United States. Bring your green card, visa, or other immigration document along with your other required papers.