Schedule online through the Texas DPS website or by phone
You can book a driver's license appointment in Texas through two main routes: the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) website or by calling their appointment line. The online method is faster — you pick your location and time slot when ready — while the phone line works if you prefer speaking to someone or run into technical issues.
To schedule online, go to dps.texas.gov and look for the "Appointments" section. You will need to know which DPS office location you want to visit, what type of transaction you need (renewal, replacement, new license, or address change), and your driver's license number or ID number if you have one. The system shows available time slots for the next several weeks, and you confirm your choice at the end.
If you prefer the phone route, call the DPS appointment line at 1-844-DPS-TEXAS (1-844-337-8329). Have your driver's license number ready. The wait time varies by time of day, but calling early in the morning typically means shorter holds.
Key Takeaways
- Book online at dps.texas.gov or by phone at 1-844-337-8329; online appointments show availability several weeks ahead.
- You will need your driver's license number, the DPS office location you prefer, and the type of transaction (renewal, replacement, new license, or address change).
- Bring your confirmation number and the documents required for your specific transaction when you arrive at your appointment.
- If you miss your appointment, you can reschedule through the same website or phone line without penalty.
- Walk-in service is available at most DPS offices but typically involves longer waits than scheduled appointments.
What documents to bring to your appointment
The documents you need depend on which transaction you are doing. For a renewal, bring your current driver's license and proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days). If you are renewing by mail or online instead of in person, you may not need to visit an office at all — check dps.texas.gov to see if your renewal is may be able to access for remote processing.
For a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged license), bring a government-issued photo ID like a passport or state ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. For a new license, bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of lawful presence in the United States (birth certificate, passport, visa, or other federal document). For an address change, bring your current license and proof of your new address.
Proof of residency must show your current address and be dated within 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, bank statement, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail. A post office change-of-address form does not count as proof of residency.
DPS office locations and how to find the one nearest you
Texas has DPS driver's license offices in most cities and many smaller towns. When you schedule online, the system shows all locations and their available appointment slots. You can filter by city or zip code to find the office closest to you.
If you want to browse locations before scheduling, visit dps.texas.gov and search the office locator. Each location listing shows hours of operation, the services offered at that office, and whether appointments are currently available. Some smaller offices may have limited hours or may not handle all transaction types — for example, some locations do not issue commercial driver's licenses or handle certain endorsements.
Urban areas typically have multiple offices, so you may have flexibility in choosing a time that works for you. Rural areas may have fewer locations and longer waits between available appointments, so schedule as far in advance as your needs allow.
What to expect on the day of your appointment
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with your confirmation number and all required documents. The DPS office will call you by name when it is your turn. You will go through a brief interview where staff verify your information, take a new photo if required, and process your transaction. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes if you have all your documents and your appointment is on time.
You will pay a fee at the time of service. Driver's license renewal costs $25, replacement costs $25, a new license costs $25, and an address change is free. Payment methods vary by location but typically include cash, card, and check. Ask when you schedule if you want to confirm payment options.
If you are getting a new photo taken, wear something you are comfortable with — the photo will be used on your license for the next several years. Avoid hats, sunglasses, and heavy makeup that obscures your face. The photo must meet federal standards, so the DPS staff will let you know if a retake is needed.
How to reschedule or cancel your appointment
If you need to change your appointment time or location, log back into dps.texas.gov with your confirmation number and reschedule. You can also call 1-844-337-8329 to make changes over the phone. There is no penalty for rescheduling, and you can move your appointment as many times as needed before the scheduled date.
If you miss your appointment without canceling, you will need to schedule a new one. The DPS does not charge a fee for a missed appointment, but your slot is released and you go to the back of the queue. If you know you cannot make it, cancel or reschedule at least a few hours before your appointment time so someone else can use that slot.
What to do if no appointments are available
Appointment availability changes daily as slots open and close. If you do not see times that work for you, check back the next day or try a different DPS location. Some offices have more frequent openings than others, and rural locations sometimes have longer gaps between available slots.
You can also visit a DPS office without an appointment and request walk-in service. Walk-in wait times vary widely — some offices have short waits during off-peak hours, while others may have lines of 30 minutes to several hours during busy times. Weekday mornings and mid-week days typically have shorter waits than Fridays or the first and last days of the month.
If you are in a time-sensitive situation — for example, your license expires soon or you need a replacement for travel — call 1-844-337-8329 and explain your situation. Staff may be able to find an earlier appointment or direct you to an office with shorter wait times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I schedule an appointment for someone else?
No. The person whose license is being renewed or replaced must schedule their own appointment or have a parent or legal guardian schedule it for a minor. When you arrive, bring the person's documents and they must be present for the transaction.
How far in advance can I schedule?
The online system typically shows appointments 4 to 8 weeks ahead, though this varies by location and demand. During busy periods, slots may fill up quickly, so schedule as soon as you know you need an appointment. You can reschedule later if your plans change.
What if I do not have a current Texas driver's license?
You can still schedule an appointment for a new license. Bring the documents listed for a new license transaction: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of lawful presence. The DPS staff will walk you through what you need when you call or visit the website.
Do I need an appointment for a name change?
A name change is handled as a replacement license, so you will need to schedule an appointment. Bring your current license, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change, and proof of residency.
Can I renew my license online instead of in person?
Many Texas driver's licenses can be renewed by mail or online without visiting an office. When you log into dps.texas.gov, the system will tell you whether your license is may be able to access for remote renewal. If it is not may be able to access, you will need to schedule an in-person appointment.