Where to go and what to bring
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License Division is the state agency that issues driver's licenses and handles renewals. You cannot get a Texas license from a local city office or courthouse — you must go to a DPS Driver License office, which operates in most counties across the state.
To find the office nearest you, visit the DPS website and search by county or city. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require you to book an appointment online first. Check your local office's policy before you go, because wait times vary widely — some offices have same-day service while others book appointments weeks out.
Bring your Social Security number, proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address), and proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or military ID). If you are renewing an expired license, bring the license itself. If you are getting your first Texas license or moving from another state, bring your out-of-state license or a certified birth certificate.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS Driver License office in person; there is no online or mail-only route for a new license, though some renewals can be done by mail if your license is not expired.
- Bring proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and your Social Security number — the exact documents depend on whether you are renewing or getting a license for the first time.
- Standard licenses cost around $16 to $25 depending on how long you want it to be valid, and Real ID licenses cost more but are required for federal air travel starting in 2025.
- Vision screening is done at the DPS office during your visit, so you do not need to bring a separate eye exam — though if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.
- Processing takes a few days to a week; the DPS mails your license to your address on file, so make sure your mailing address is correct before you leave the office.
Standard license versus Real ID
Texas offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a Real ID. The difference matters if you fly domestically or enter a federal building.
A standard Texas driver's license works for driving and state ID purposes. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. Starting in May 2025, you will need a Real ID, a passport, a military ID, or another federally approved document to board a domestic flight — a standard driver's license will not work.
Getting a Real ID requires the same documents as a standard license, plus one extra form of proof: a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. Real ID licenses cost more than standard licenses — the exact price varies by how long you want the license to be valid, but expect to pay roughly $10 to $15 more. Both types are valid for five or eight years depending on your age and which option you choose.
Vision screening at the DPS office
The DPS conducts a vision screening during your visit — you do not need to bring a separate eye exam from an optometrist or ophthalmologist. The screening checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely.
If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. The DPS will test your vision while you are wearing them. If you fail the screening, the DPS will restrict your license to require corrective lenses while driving. If you fail significantly, you may be asked to get a full eye exam from an eye doctor and bring the results back to the DPS office.
If you have a medical condition that affects your vision or your ability to drive — such as diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, or a recent stroke — tell the DPS staff when you arrive. They may ask you to provide documentation from your doctor or to take additional tests before your license is issued.
Renewal by mail or online
If your license is not yet expired and you have not had a major change (such as a name change, address change, or medical restriction), you may be able to renew by mail without visiting an office.
The DPS sends renewal notices by mail about 90 days before your license expires. The notice will tell you whether you are may be able to access to renew by mail. If you are, you can mail back the form with a check or money order, and the DPS will mail your new license to you. This process takes about two weeks.
Some renewals can also be done online through the DPS website if you meet the same conditions — your license must not be expired, and you must not have had a change in medical status or personal information. Online renewal is faster than mail renewal, usually taking just a few days.
What happens if your license is expired
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew it by mail or online — you must visit a DPS office in person and go through the full process process again, including the vision screening and photograph.
If your license expired less than two years ago, you may still be able to renew by mail or online, depending on whether you have had any changes to your medical status or address. The DPS website will tell you which renewal method you are may be able to access for when you enter your license number.
Driving with an expired license is illegal in Texas. If you are stopped by police, you can be cited. If your license has been expired for a long time, the DPS may also require you to pass a written driving test before issuing a new one.
Name changes and address updates
If you have changed your name since your last license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — you must visit a DPS office in person to update it. Bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
If you have moved to a new address in Texas, you can update your address online through the DPS website without visiting an office, as long as your license is not expired. If your license is expired, you will need to renew it in person and update your address at the same time.
Updating your address is important because the DPS mails your new license to the address on file. If you move and do not update your address, your license will be mailed to your old home and you may not receive it.
Medical conditions and driving restrictions
If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive — such as seizures, severe arthritis, hearing loss, or a recent surgery — you must tell the DPS when you explore for or renew your license. The DPS may place restrictions on your license, such as requiring you to wear corrective lenses, limiting you to daytime driving only, or requiring you to use hand controls.
Some conditions require you to provide a medical report from your doctor. The DPS has a form called the Medical Evaluation Report that your doctor can fill out. If the DPS asks for this form, your doctor's office can submit it directly to the DPS, or you can bring a completed copy to the DPS office.
If your condition changes or improves, you can request that restrictions be removed by visiting a DPS office and providing updated medical documentation. If your condition worsens, the DPS may suspend your license until you provide proof that you are safe to drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas license if I live out of state?
No. You must be a Texas resident to hold a Texas driver's license. If you have moved out of state, you should get a license from your new state. If you still own property in Texas or have other ties to the state, you can keep a Texas ID card instead, which you can renew by mail.
What if I fail the vision screening at the DPS office?
If you fail slightly, the DPS will add a restriction to your license requiring you to wear corrective lenses while driving. If you fail significantly, you will be asked to get a full eye exam from an eye doctor and bring the results back. You cannot drive home without a valid license, so arrange for someone to pick you up or use a rideshare service.
How long does it take to get my license after I explore?
The DPS mails licenses to your address on file, which usually takes five to seven business days after your visit. You should receive it within two weeks. If you do not receive it after three weeks, contact the DPS office where you applied to check the status.
Do I need a Real ID if I only drive in Texas?
No. A standard driver's license is fine for driving and everyday ID use. You only need a Real ID if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building after May 2025. If you only drive locally and do not fly, a standard license is sufficient.
What if I have a medical condition that might affect my driving?
Tell the DPS staff when you visit the office. They will ask you questions about your condition and may ask for a medical report from your doctor. Be honest about any condition that affects your vision, hearing, mobility, or ability to concentrate — the DPS uses this information to keep you and others safe, not to deny you a license without reason.