What documents to bring to the DPS office
To renew your Texas driver's license in person, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your current license. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) accepts a limited list of documents for each category — bringing something close but not on the list will not work, so check before you go.
For proof of identity, bring one of these: your current Texas driver's license, a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card, a military ID, a permanent resident card, or a Texas ID card. If your current license is expired, it still counts as proof of identity for renewal purposes.
For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 90 days that shows your name and current Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, an insurance policy, a property tax bill, or a government check. A cell phone bill does not count. If you have moved recently and your documents do not yet show your new address, bring a signed letter from your landlord or mortgage company on letterhead, plus a utility bill or lease in your name.
You do not need to bring your Social Security card, but you will need to know your Social Security number when you arrive at the DPS office.
Key Takeaways
- Bring your current license, one form of identity from the DPS-approved list, and proof of residency dated within 90 days showing your current address.
- Proof of residency must be an original document or certified copy — a photo or printout from your phone will not be accepted.
- If you have changed your name since your current license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that changed your name (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
- You can renew in person at any DPS office, and you do not need an appointment — offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Bring cash or a debit card; not all DPS offices accept credit cards, so check with your local office first if you plan to use one.
If your name has changed since your current license
When you renew, DPS will issue a license under the name on your current license unless you provide proof that your name has changed. Bring a certified copy of the document that changed your name — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption decree. A photocopy is not enough; you need the certified version from the county clerk or the court that issued it.
If you changed your name through marriage or divorce, you can order a certified copy of your marriage certificate or divorce decree from the county clerk's office in the county where the event took place. This usually takes a few days and costs between $10 and $25, depending on the county. If you changed your name by court order, contact the district court that issued the order.
What happens at the DPS office during renewal
When you arrive, you will check in and wait for your number to be called. A DPS employee will review your documents, take a new photo, and ask you to sign a form confirming your information. The entire process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.
You will be asked to confirm or update your address, emergency contact information, and organ donor status. If any of this information is wrong on your current license, tell the employee now so it can be corrected on your new license. You will also be asked whether you want to register to vote; this is optional.
After the employee processes your renewal, you will pay the fee and receive a receipt. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your receipt as a temporary license while you wait.
Renewal fees and payment methods
A standard five-year renewal costs $40. A standard eight-year renewal costs $64. The difference is how long the license remains valid — most people choose the five-year option. If you are 85 or older, a five-year renewal costs $20.
DPS offices accept cash and debit cards at all locations. Credit cards are accepted at some offices but not others. If you plan to use a credit card, call your local DPS office before you go to confirm they accept it. You cannot pay online or by mail when you renew in person.
Which DPS office to visit and what to expect
You can renew at any DPS office in Texas, not just the one in your county. DPS offices are located in most cities and towns. To find the office nearest you, visit the DPS website and use their office locator tool, or search "DPS office near me" plus your city name.
Offices are busiest on weekday mornings and early afternoons. If you go on a weekday after 4 p.m. or on a Saturday morning, you may wait less time. Some offices close for lunch between noon and 1 p.m., so call ahead if you are planning to go during that window. No appointment is needed — DPS operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Bring all your documents in originals or certified copies. Photocopies and photos on your phone will not be accepted. If you forget a required document, you will have to go home and come back another day.
If you cannot renew in person
Texas allows some people to renew by mail without going to a DPS office. You are may be able to access to renew by mail if your current license is not suspended or revoked, you have not had any address changes in the past two years, and your license is not expiring because of a medical condition or court order. If you meet these conditions, DPS will mail you a renewal form automatically when your license is about to expire.
If you receive a renewal form in the mail, you can fill it out, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail it back to DPS. Include a copy of your proof of residency. Your new license will be mailed to you within two to three weeks. If you do not receive a form in the mail and you think you are may be able to access, contact DPS to request one.
What to do if your license is expired
You can still renew an expired license in person at a DPS office. Bring the same documents you would bring for a regular renewal — your expired license counts as proof of identity. The fee is the same whether your license is current or expired.
If your license has been expired for more than two years, DPS may require you to pass a vision test or a written knowledge test before they will renew it. Call your local DPS office to ask whether you will need to take a test. If you do, you can study the Texas Driver Handbook online for free on the DPS website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online?
No. Texas does not offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You must renew in person at a DPS office or by mail if you meet the may be able to access requirements. If you received a renewal form in the mail, you can mail it back instead of visiting an office.
What if I do not have proof of residency in my name?
If you recently moved and your documents have not caught up, bring a signed letter from your landlord or mortgage company on letterhead, plus a utility bill or lease in your name. The letter and the bill together count as proof of residency. If you live with someone else and have no documents in your name, ask the person whose name is on the utility bill to write a letter confirming you live there and sign it.
Do I need to take a new photo for renewal?
Yes. DPS takes a new photo every time you renew, even if your appearance has not changed. You cannot use the photo from your current license. Wear something you feel comfortable in — avoid large hats or sunglasses, but you can wear regular glasses if you normally do.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
Your new license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days after you renew in person. If you renew by mail, it takes 2 to 3 weeks. You can use your receipt as a temporary license while you wait. If your new license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact DPS to check the status.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
No. You must be present in person to renew your driver's license. DPS requires you to sign the renewal form and have a new photo taken. No one can do this on your behalf.