What you need to bring to the Texas DMV for an in-person renewal
Texas requires you to bring your current driver's license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to renew in person. Your current license serves as your primary identification. For proof of residency, the Texas Department of Public Safety accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 90 days. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form.
If your current license is lost, stolen, or expired more than two years ago, you cannot use the in-person renewal process — you will need to explore for a replacement or new license instead. The in-person renewal process is only available if your license is still valid or expired within the last two years.
Bring the originals of these documents, not copies. The DPS clerk will verify them during your visit. You do not need to bring proof of insurance, vehicle registration, or any other documents unless you are also updating your address or vehicle information at the same time.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring your current driver's license, proof of residency dated within 90 days, and proof of Social Security number to renew in person.
- In-person renewal is only available if your license is still valid or expired within the last two years.
- Texas DPS offices are open Monday through Friday, and wait times vary by location and time of day — calling ahead can tell you the current wait.
- The renewal fee is $61 for a four-year license or $123 for an eight-year license, and you must pay in person at the office.
- Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days after your visit.
Where to find a Texas DPS office near you
Texas has over 130 driver's license offices operated by the Department of Public Safety. You can search for the office closest to you on the DPS website by entering your city or ZIP code. The search tool shows the office address, phone number, and hours of operation.
Not all offices offer the same services. Some smaller offices handle renewals only, while larger regional offices handle replacements, new licenses, and other transactions. The office locator will tell you which services each location offers. If your nearest office does not handle renewals, the search results will show you the next closest office that does.
Call the office before you go. The DPS publishes current wait times on their website, and many offices have a phone line that tells you the estimated wait when you call. Going during off-peak hours — early morning, mid-week, or mid-month — usually means a shorter wait than going on a Friday afternoon or near the end of the month.
What happens during your in-person renewal visit
When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give the clerk your documents. The clerk will verify your identity, residency, and Social Security number. You will then be asked to confirm or update your address, vehicle information, and emergency contact details. If any of this information has changed, tell the clerk now — updating it during renewal is faster than changing it separately later.
Next, you will have your photo taken for the new license. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in. Texas does not allow hats, sunglasses, or head coverings in the photo unless for religious reasons, and your face must be clearly visible. The photo will appear on your license for the next four or eight years, depending on which term you choose.
After your photo, you will pay the renewal fee. Texas accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. A four-year license costs $61, and an eight-year license costs $123. You cannot pay online or by mail for an in-person renewal — payment happens at the office. Once you pay, your transaction is complete, and you will receive a receipt.
How long your new license takes to arrive
Your new physical license will be mailed to the address you provided at the office. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date of your visit. Texas does not offer expedited mail for driver's licenses, so there is no way to speed up delivery beyond the standard timeframe.
While you wait for your new license to arrive, you can use your receipt from the DPS office as proof that you have renewed. Some businesses and law enforcement will accept the receipt as temporary proof of a valid license. Keep the receipt in a safe place until your new license arrives.
If your new license does not arrive within 14 business days, contact the DPS by phone or through their website to report it. The DPS can check the status of your license and reissue it if it was lost in the mail.
Updating your address or vehicle information during renewal
If you have moved since your last license was issued, you must update your address during the renewal process. Tell the clerk at the office that your address has changed, and provide your new proof of residency. The new address will appear on your renewed license at no extra cost.
If you have changed vehicles or want to add or remove vehicle information from your license, you can do that during your renewal visit as well. The clerk will ask what vehicles you own and update your record. This does not cost extra and does not extend your wait time.
If you do not update your address during renewal and want to change it later, you will have to visit a DPS office again or change it online through the DPS website if you are not changing your photo or signature.
What to do if you cannot renew in person right now
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew in person. You will need to explore for a new license instead, which requires a visit to the DPS office, a written test, and a driving test. This process takes longer and costs more than a renewal.
If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot use the renewal process either. You will need to explore for a replacement license, which also requires an in-person visit but does not require a driving test. A replacement license costs $61 for four years or $123 for eight years, the same as a renewal.
If you are unable to visit a DPS office in person due to a disability or medical condition, contact the DPS to ask about accommodations. Some offices can arrange for you to renew by mail or through a third-party vendor if you meet certain conditions. Call the DPS or visit their website to learn whether this option is available to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas driver's license if it expired more than two years ago?
No. If your license expired more than two years ago, you must explore for a new license instead of renewing. This requires a written test and a driving test, and you must visit a DPS office in person. Contact the DPS office to find out what documents and fees you will need.
Do I need an appointment to renew my license at the DPS office?
Texas DPS offices do not require appointments for renewals. You can walk in during business hours. However, calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you choose the best time to visit. Some offices have longer waits on certain days of the week or times of day.
What if I moved and my proof of residency is in someone else's name?
The proof of residency must show your name and your current address. If the document is in another person's name, it will not be accepted. Bring a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement that shows your name. If you cannot get one, contact the DPS office to ask what other documents they will accept.
Can I choose to get a four-year or eight-year license when I renew?
Yes. When you pay at the DPS office, you can choose either a four-year license for $61 or an eight-year license for $123. The clerk will ask which term you want before you pay. The choice is yours, and there is no difference in the license itself other than the expiration date.
What if my new license arrives with the wrong information on it?
Contact the DPS when ready by phone or through their website. Bring your receipt from your renewal visit and explain what is wrong. The DPS can issue a corrected license. If the error was made by the DPS, there is no fee for the correction.