What you need to bring to a DPS office for in-person renewal

Texas requires you to bring your current driver's license, proof of residency, and proof of citizenship or legal presence. Your current license serves as your primary ID. For proof of residency, the Department of Public Safety accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days — the document must show your current address.

Proof of citizenship or legal presence is the second major requirement. U.S. citizens can bring a birth certificate, passport, or certificate of naturalization. If you are a lawful permanent resident or have another immigration status, bring your permanent resident card, employment authorization document, or visa with I-94 arrival/departure record. The DPS website lists the full set of acceptable documents — bring the original or a certified copy, not a photocopy.

You will also need to complete form DL-43, the process for a Texas driver's license. You can fill it out before you arrive or at the office. Bring a pen in case you need to complete it on-site. If you are renewing a license that has been expired for more than two years, the DPS may require an eye exam at the office, so budget extra time.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring your current driver's license, a utility bill or bank statement from the last 90 days showing your address, and an original birth certificate or passport.
  • Complete form DL-43 before you arrive or fill it out at the office to save time.
  • Licenses expired more than two years require an eye exam at the DPS office, which adds 15 to 30 minutes to your visit.
  • DPS offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no online appointment system, so arrive early to avoid long waits.
  • The renewal fee is $33 for a four-year license or $66 for an eight-year license, paid at the office by cash, check, or card.

Finding a DPS office near you and office hours

The Texas Department of Public Safety operates driver's license offices across the state. You can find the office nearest you using the DPS office locator on their website — enter your city or zip code to see addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, with some locations offering limited Saturday hours. Hours vary by location, so check before you go.

Call ahead if you want to know the current wait time. Many offices post estimated wait times on their websites or answer the phone with that information. Early morning, typically before 10 a.m., tends to be less crowded than midday or late afternoon. If you live near a major city, consider visiting a smaller satellite office rather than the main downtown location.

What happens during your in-person visit

When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. You will wait until your number is called. At the window, the DPS employee will review your documents, verify that your proof of residency and citizenship are acceptable, and confirm the information on your process form. If you have not completed form DL-43, they will hand you one to fill out.

Next, you will have your photo taken and your signature captured. If your license expired more than two years ago, you will be sent to take an eye exam at a station in the office. The exam checks your vision and color blindness — it takes about five minutes. After the exam, you return to the window to finish the transaction.

You will pay the renewal fee and receive a receipt. Your new license will be mailed to the address on your process within 7 to 10 business days. The DPS will give you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while you wait for the plastic card to arrive. Keep this receipt and temporary license with you while driving.

Renewal fees and payment methods

A four-year Texas driver's license costs $33. An eight-year license costs $66. These are the standard renewal rates as of 2024. DPS offices accept cash, personal checks, and debit or credit cards. Some offices may have restrictions on which payment methods they accept, so bring multiple options if possible.

If you are renewing a license that was suspended or revoked, additional fees may explore. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you may be charged a late renewal fee in addition to the standard renewal cost. Ask the DPS employee about any additional charges before you pay.

How long your new license takes to arrive

After you complete your in-person visit, the DPS mails your new plastic license to the address on your process. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. During this time, you can drive using the temporary paper license the office gave you. The temporary license is valid for 30 days, which covers the wait for most renewals.

If your new license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the DPS by phone or through their website to check the status. Provide your driver's license number and the date of your renewal visit. The DPS can tell you whether the license has been mailed and provide a tracking number if available.

What to do if you cannot find required documents

If you do not have your birth certificate or passport, you can order a replacement from the Texas Vital Statistics unit or the U.S. State Department. A certified birth certificate from Texas Vital Statistics takes 2 to 3 weeks by mail and costs $23. If you need it faster, some counties offer in-person service at their vital records office.

If you do not have a recent utility bill or bank statement for proof of residency, other documents work: a property tax statement, homeowner's insurance bill, or a lease agreement all count. If you have moved recently and have not received a bill at your new address, bring a lease or rental agreement signed by you and your landlord.

If you have lost your current driver's license, you can still renew in person — bring your other documents and tell the DPS employee your license is missing. The DPS will note this in their system and issue a new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make an appointment to renew my license in person?

No. Texas DPS offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis. You do not need an appointment. Arrive early in the day to minimize wait time, especially on Fridays or near the end of the month when offices are busier.

Can I renew my license if it has been expired for several years?

Yes, but the process takes longer. Licenses expired more than two years require an eye exam at the DPS office. You will also pay the standard renewal fee plus any late renewal penalties. Bring all required documents and budget extra time for the eye exam.

What if I moved and my address on my license is outdated?

Bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days showing your current address. The DPS will update your address during the renewal and print it on your new license.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No. You must appear in person at the DPS office. The DPS requires your signature and photo as part of the renewal process. You cannot authorize someone else to do this on your behalf.

What if I fail the eye exam at the DPS office?

If you fail the vision test, the DPS will not issue a license. You will need to see an eye doctor, get a corrective prescription if needed, and return to the DPS office with proof that you have corrected your vision. Bring glasses or contacts if you use them, or bring documentation from an optometrist or ophthalmologist.