Documents required to renew your Texas license
To renew your Texas driver's license, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) accepts different documents for each category, so you have options depending on what you have on hand. You do not need all the documents listed below — you need one from the identity category and one from the residency category.
If you are renewing by mail or online, the document requirements are different and fewer. Most people renewing in person at a DPS office will complete the process in one visit if they bring the right paperwork.
Key Takeaways
- You need one proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate) and one proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease) to renew in person.
- Your Social Security number is required, but you do not need to bring a card — you can provide it verbally or on the process form.
- If you are renewing by mail, you need only your current license and the renewal process; no additional documents are required.
- Online renewal requires only your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number; you do not go to an office.
- If your name has changed since your last license, you must bring a document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
Proof of identity documents accepted in Texas
Texas DPS accepts a wide range of documents to prove who you are. A U.S. passport, passport card, or military ID are the easiest options because they serve as both identity and residency proof in some cases. If you do not have those, a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or permanent resident card all work.
You can also use a government-issued ID from another state, a tribal ID card, or a consular ID card issued by a foreign government. If you have a Texas ID card (not a driver's license), that counts as proof of identity for renewal purposes. The document must be current or expired no more than two years.
Proof of residency documents accepted in Texas
Proof of residency shows that you live at the address you are listing on your renewed license. A utility bill in your name — electric, gas, water, or internet — is the most common choice and is accepted by DPS. The bill must be dated within the last 60 days and show your current address.
Other residency documents include a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a homeowners or renters insurance policy, or a bank or credit card statement. Government mail addressed to you at your current address also works, such as a tax return or voter registration card. Like utility bills, these must be recent — generally within 60 days — and show your name and address.
Renewing by mail instead of in person
If your license is not expired and you have not had it suspended or revoked, you can renew by mail without going to a DPS office. You need only your current license and the renewal process form (DL-44), which you can read from the Texas DPS website or request by phone. Mail your license and completed form to the address listed on the form.
Mail renewal takes longer than in-person renewal — typically four to six weeks — because DPS must receive your materials, process them, and mail your new license back to you. You cannot renew by mail if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need to update your photo, or if you have had any violations or suspensions.
Renewing online through the Texas DPS website
Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You need only your current Texas driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You do not need to gather any physical documents or visit an office.
Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired, you have no suspensions or revocations, and you do not need to change your photo or address. The process takes about 10 minutes, and your new license ships within one to two weeks. If you do not meet these conditions, you must renew in person at a DPS office.
What to do if your name has changed
If you have married, divorced, or legally changed your name since your last license was issued, you must bring a document proving the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for a legal name change all work. DPS will not process your renewal without this document, even if your current license shows your old name.
You cannot renew by mail or online if your name has changed — you must go to a DPS office in person. Bring your current license, your name-change document, your proof of identity, and your proof of residency. The office will update your name in the system and issue a new license with your current name.
Bringing documents to a DPS office
When you go to a DPS office to renew, bring your current license, one proof of identity, and one proof of residency. Bring originals, not copies — DPS staff will examine them and return them to you. If any document is in a language other than English, bring an official English translation as well.
Arrive early or check wait times online before you go, as DPS offices can have long lines. You do not need an appointment for license renewal at most offices, but some locations allow you to reserve a time slot on the DPS website. Bring your Social Security number (you can provide it verbally) and be ready to have your photo taken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it expired more than two years ago?
No, you cannot renew by mail or online if your license has been expired for more than two years. You must explore for a new license in person at a DPS office, which requires additional documents and a new written test. Contact your local DPS office to find out what you need to bring.
Do I need to bring my Social Security card?
No, you do not need to bring your Social Security card. You can provide your Social Security number verbally to the DPS staff member, or you can write it on the process form. Bring the card only if you are comfortable doing so.
What if I do not have a utility bill for proof of residency?
You have many other options: a lease, mortgage statement, property tax bill, insurance policy, or government mail addressed to you at your current address all work. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days.
Can I renew online if my address has changed?
No, you cannot change your address online. If you have moved, you must renew in person at a DPS office and bring proof of your new residency. Online renewal is only for renewals with no changes to your information.
How long does it take to get my renewed license after I explore?
In-person renewal at a DPS office is usually complete the same day, and you receive your new license in the mail within one to two weeks. Mail renewal takes four to six weeks total. Online renewal also takes one to two weeks for delivery.