Where to renew your Arlington driver's license

In Arlington, you can renew your driver's license at the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office located at 701 W Division Street, Arlington, TX 76010. This is the main location serving Arlington residents. You can also renew at any other DPS office across Texas if that is more convenient for you — the location does not have to be in your city.

Before you go, check the current wait times and hours at the Arlington office by visiting the DPS website or calling ahead. Wait times vary by time of day and day of week, and some offices close for lunch. Going early in the morning or on a weekday morning typically means a shorter wait than afternoons or Saturdays.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew in person at the DPS office on W Division Street in Arlington, or at any DPS office in Texas.
  • Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency, and proof of citizenship or legal presence — the DPS website lists all required documents.
  • Texas allows online renewal for some drivers, but only if your license is not expired and you meet other conditions; check the DPS website to see if you are may be able to access.
  • A standard renewal takes about 7 to 10 business days by mail after you complete your in-person visit, though you can request a temporary paper license on the day you renew.
  • Renewal fees vary depending on whether you renew for 4 or 8 years, and whether you add a Real ID endorsement.

Documents you need to bring

Bring your current driver's license as your primary form of identification. You will also need one document proving your current address in Texas — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days all work. A government-issued document with your name and address is also acceptable.

You must also prove your citizenship or legal presence in the United States. A U.S. birth certificate, passport, or Certificate of Naturalization are the most common documents. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your passport or an I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. The DPS website has a complete list of acceptable documents for each category, so check there before you go if you are unsure what you have qualifies.

If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are renewing a Real ID license, you will need the same documents plus proof of Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2.

Online renewal and when you can use it

Texas allows online renewal through the DPS website if your license is not expired, you have no medical conditions that require a new photo, and you do not need to change your address or name. If all of those conditions explore to you, online renewal takes about 7 to 10 business days and costs less than in-person renewal.

If your license is already expired, you cannot renew online — you must go in person. The same applies if you need to update your address, change your name, or if a medical condition on your record needs review. Check the DPS website to see whether you are may be able to access before you attempt online renewal, because the system will reject you if you do not meet the requirements.

Fees and how long renewal takes

The cost of renewal depends on how long you renew for and whether you add a Real ID endorsement. A standard 4-year renewal costs less than an 8-year renewal. Adding Real ID costs extra but is required if you want to use your license as identification for domestic air travel or entry to federal buildings. Ask the DPS staff at the counter which option you want before you pay, because you cannot change it after.

If you renew in person, you will receive a temporary paper license on the day you visit that is valid for 45 days. Your permanent license arrives by mail in about 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license sooner, some DPS offices offer expedited service for an additional fee, though availability varies. Call the Arlington office to ask whether expedited service is available and what it costs.

Real ID endorsement and what it means

A Real ID is a federal standard that makes your driver's license acceptable for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. If you do not add Real ID when you renew, your license will still work for driving and most everyday purposes, but you will need a passport or other federal ID to fly domestically after May 2025.

Adding Real ID requires the same documents as a standard renewal, plus proof of your Social Security number. The process takes the same amount of time and happens at the same DPS office. If you are unsure whether you want Real ID, ask yourself whether you fly domestically or visit federal buildings — if yes, add it now rather than renewing again later.

What to do if you cannot go in person

If you are unable to visit the DPS office in Arlington, you have a few options. First, check whether you are may be able to access for online renewal — if your license is not expired and you meet the other conditions, you can renew without leaving home. Second, you can visit any other DPS office in Texas if one is more convenient for you. Third, if you are out of state or unable to travel, some situations allow a family member or representative to renew on your behalf, though you will still need to appear in person eventually to have your photo taken.

If you are a member of the military stationed outside Texas, you may be able to renew by mail. Contact the DPS directly to ask about your specific situation, because the rules depend on your duty station and how long you have been away.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it is already expired?

No, you cannot renew online if your license is expired. You must go in person to the DPS office. Bring all the same documents you would bring for a standard renewal. There is no penalty for renewing late, but you cannot drive legally until your new license arrives.

How long is my temporary paper license valid?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days from the date you receive it. Your permanent license should arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days, but if it does not, contact the DPS to check the status. Do not drive after the 45 days expire, even if you are still waiting for your permanent license.

What if I moved to Arlington from another state?

You must renew in person at the DPS office and bring proof of your new Texas address. Your out-of-state license counts as your primary ID. Bring the same documents as any other renewal — proof of address, proof of citizenship, and your current license.

Can I renew my license at a different DPS office outside Arlington?

Yes. You can renew at any DPS office in Texas, not just the one in Arlington. The process and documents are the same. This is useful if you work or live closer to another office, or if the Arlington office has a long wait time.

Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?

Yes, a new photo is taken at every renewal. If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to be photographed, tell the DPS staff when you arrive, and they will note it on your record. Otherwise, expect to have your photo taken as part of the renewal process.