Documents required for a Texas driver's license renewal
Texas requires you to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your current driver's license to the Department of Public Safety office. The exact documents depend on whether you're renewing by mail, online, or in person — and whether your license is still valid or has been expired for more than two years.
For most renewals, you'll need your Social Security number, proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, and one document showing your current Texas address. If you're renewing in person, bring your current license. If you're renewing by mail or online, you won't need to bring the physical license, but you'll need to provide your license number.
Key Takeaways
- In-person renewals require your current driver's license, proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number.
- By-mail renewals need your current license, a completed process form, and payment — but no additional identity documents if your license is still valid.
- Online renewals are available only if your license is valid and you meet other restrictions; you'll need your license number and Social Security number.
- Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days.
- If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew by mail or online and must explore in person as if getting a new license.
Proof of identity documents accepted by Texas DPS
Texas DPS accepts a limited list of documents as proof of identity. Your current Texas driver's license counts as proof of identity for renewal purposes. If you don't have your current license or it's been lost, you can use a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or a Texas ID card.
If you're using a document other than your current license, it must be valid (not expired) and show your photograph. A Social Security card alone does not count as proof of identity. If you've changed your name since your last license was issued, bring a document proving the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Proof of residency: what documents work
You need one document showing your current Texas address. The document must be dated within 90 days of your visit to the DPS office. Acceptable documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, or a homeowners or renters insurance policy.
The document must show your name and current address. A post office change-of-address form does not count. If you've recently moved and don't have a document in your new name yet, contact DPS before your appointment — they may accept a combination of documents or allow you to bring a notarized statement of residency.
Citizenship and lawful presence documents
You must prove you are a U.S. citizen or have lawful presence in the United States. Acceptable documents include a U.S. birth certificate, a U.S. passport, a passport card, a Certificate of Naturalization, a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or a Temporary Protected Status (TPS) document.
If you're providing a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy — not a photocopy or hospital record. If your birth certificate is from outside the United States, it must be accompanied by proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a naturalization certificate or passport. DPS will not accept a driver's license from another state as proof of citizenship.
Differences between in-person, by-mail, and online renewal documents
In-person renewals require the most documents: your current license, proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of citizenship, and your Social Security number. You'll also complete Form DL-43 at the office.
By-mail renewals require fewer documents if your license is still valid. You'll mail in your current license, a completed Form DL-43, and payment. You do not need to include proof of identity or residency — DPS uses the information already on file. However, if your address has changed, you must include proof of residency.
Online renewals through the Texas DPS website require only your driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth. You do not mail or bring any physical documents. Online renewal is available only if your license is valid, you're a U.S. citizen, and you meet other restrictions (such as not having a commercial license or medical restrictions).
What to do if your license expired more than two years ago
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot use the renewal process. Instead, you must explore for a new license in person at a DPS office. This means you'll need to provide all documents as if you were getting a license for the first time: proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of citizenship, your Social Security number, and proof of name change if applicable.
You'll also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test. Bring your current or expired license if you have it, but it will not count as proof of identity — you'll need one of the other accepted documents listed above. Schedule an appointment online through the Texas DPS website to avoid long wait times.
Name changes and other special circumstances
If you've changed your name since your last license was issued, bring the document proving the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption decree. The document must be an official certified copy. If you're renewing by mail, include a photocopy of the name change document with your process.
If you have a medical condition that affects your driving, or if you need to update restrictions on your license (such as corrective lenses), you may need additional documents or a medical examination. Contact DPS before your appointment to find out what's required. If you're renewing online and your license has restrictions, you'll be directed to renew in person instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Texas driver's license if I don't have a Social Security number?
No. Your Social Security number is required for all renewals, whether in person, by mail, or online. If you don't have a Social Security number, contact DPS to learn about other options. You may be able to provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) in some cases.
What if I don't have proof of residency dated within 90 days?
Contact DPS before your appointment. They may accept an older document along with a newer document showing your name, or they may allow a notarized statement of residency. Some DPS offices have different rules, so calling ahead can save you a trip.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card to the DPS office?
No. You only need to provide your Social Security number — you don't need to bring the card itself. Bring your proof of identity, proof of residency, and current license instead.
Can I renew my license online if I've moved to a new address?
No. Online renewal is available only if your address on file hasn't changed. If you've moved, you must renew by mail (including proof of residency) or in person.
What happens if I bring the wrong documents to my DPS appointment?
DPS will not process your renewal. You'll need to reschedule and return with the correct documents. To avoid this, check the DPS website or call your local office before your appointment to confirm what you need to bring.