Book your appointment through the Texas Department of Public Safety website or by phone

You can schedule a renewal appointment in two ways: online through the Texas DPS website at dps.texas.gov, or by calling 1-844-DPS-TEXAS (1-844-337-8392). The online system is faster — you can see available times when ready and confirm your appointment in minutes. The phone line has wait times but works if you prefer speaking to someone or if you have questions about what documents to bring.

You do not need to visit a DPS office in person to schedule. The appointment system lets you choose your preferred location and time slot before you go. Most offices have appointments available within one to three weeks, though urban locations like Dallas and Houston sometimes book out further.

Key Takeaways

  • Schedule online at dps.texas.gov or call 1-844-337-8392; both methods show you available appointment times before you commit.
  • Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return) to your appointment.
  • Renewal appointments typically take 15 to 30 minutes, and you will receive your new license by mail within two weeks.
  • If you cannot make your scheduled appointment, cancel at least 24 hours ahead through the same system so someone else can use the slot.

Schedule online in three steps

Go to dps.texas.gov and look for the "Driver License" section. Click on "Schedule an Appointment" or "Renew Your License." The system will ask for your current driver's license number and date of birth to pull up your record.

Next, select your county and preferred DPS office location. The calendar will show you which days have open slots. Pick a date and time that works for you — the system displays all available options so you can choose the one that fits your schedule. Confirm your selection, and you will receive a confirmation number by email and text message.

Save your confirmation number or take a screenshot. You will need it when you arrive at your appointment. The system also sends you a reminder 24 hours before your appointment time.

Renew by phone if you prefer to speak with someone

Call 1-844-DPS-TEXAS (1-844-337-8392) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time. Have your current driver's license number and date of birth ready. The representative will ask which county and office location you prefer, then show you available times.

The phone system is slower than the website because of call volume, but the representative can answer questions about what documents to bring or whether you need anything beyond a standard renewal. They will give you a confirmation number over the phone — write it down when ready.

What to bring to your appointment

Bring three things: your current Texas driver's license, proof of your current address, and proof of your Social Security number. For address proof, a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. For Social Security proof, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a recent tax return.

If your name has changed since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. If you are renewing before your current license expires, you do not need to bring anything else — the DPS will process it as a standard renewal.

Bring your confirmation number or the email confirmation on your phone. The office staff will scan it when you check in.

What happens at your appointment

When you arrive, check in at the front desk with your confirmation number. A staff member will verify your documents, take a new photo, and ask you to sign the process. The whole process takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will pay the renewal fee — currently $33 for a five-year license or $66 for an eight-year license — by card or cash.

You will leave with a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. Your new plastic license will arrive by mail within two weeks. If it does not arrive after three weeks, contact the DPS to check the status.

Cancel or reschedule if your plans change

If you need to cancel, go back to dps.texas.gov, find your appointment using your confirmation number, and select "Cancel Appointment." You can also call 1-844-DPS-TEXAS to cancel over the phone. Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled time so the slot opens for someone else.

To reschedule, cancel your current appointment and book a new one using the same process. You do not lose anything by rescheduling — you are straightforward freeing up your original slot and taking a different one.

What to do if no appointments are available

If your preferred location shows no open slots, check a different office in your area or a nearby county. DPS offices in smaller towns often have more availability than those in major cities. You can renew at any Texas DPS office, not just the one closest to you.

If all nearby locations are full, check back in a few days — cancellations happen regularly and new slots open up. You can also call 1-844-DPS-TEXAS and ask if they know when the next batch of appointments will be released for your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license by mail instead of going in person?

No. Texas requires you to appear in person for a renewal so they can take a new photo and verify your identity. You must schedule an appointment and visit a DPS office.

What if I lost my current driver's license?

You still need to schedule a renewal appointment and bring the other two documents (proof of address and Social Security proof). Tell the DPS staff when you arrive that your license is lost. They will process the renewal the same way.

Can someone else schedule the appointment for me?

Yes. A family member or friend can schedule your appointment online or by phone using your driver's license number and date of birth. You will still need to attend the appointment yourself with your documents.

How long does the renewal take from start to finish?

Your in-person appointment takes 15 to 30 minutes. Your new license arrives by mail within two weeks. Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days while you wait for the plastic one.

What if my appointment time does not work anymore?

Cancel your current appointment at least 24 hours ahead through dps.texas.gov or by calling 1-844-DPS-TEXAS. Then schedule a new appointment for a time that works better. Cancellations are free and take two minutes.