Documents Required for a Texas License Renewal

To renew your Texas driver's license, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The exact documents you bring depend on whether you're renewing in person at a DPS office or by mail, and whether your license is still valid or has expired.

Most people renewing a valid license can do so by mail or online without visiting an office. If your license expired more than two years ago, or if you need to update your address or other information, you'll need to go to a DPS office in person and bring physical documents.

Key Takeaways

  • Valid licenses can be renewed by mail or online; expired licenses (more than two years old) require an in-person visit to a DPS office.
  • You must bring proof of identity (your current license, passport, or birth certificate), proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number.
  • Proof of residency must show your current address and be dated within 90 days of your visit or process.
  • If renewing by mail, send originals or certified copies; DPS will return them to you.
  • Renewal fees vary by license type and validity period, ranging from about $16 to $60 for standard licenses.

Proof of Identity Documents

DPS accepts several documents as proof of identity. Your current Texas driver's license is the easiest option if it's still valid. If your license has expired, you can use your U.S. passport, a certified copy of your birth certificate, a U.S. military ID, or a passport card.

If you're using a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy from the vital records office in the county or state where you were born — a photocopy or hospital-issued certificate won't work. The document must be an original or certified copy; DPS will not accept notarized copies for identity purposes.

Proof of Residency Documents

Proof of residency must show your current Texas address and be dated within 90 days of when you explore or visit the DPS office. Acceptable documents include a current utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a current lease or rental agreement, a recent bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, or a current vehicle registration.

The document must be in your name and show your street address — a P.O. box is not acceptable. If you've recently moved and don't have a document dated within 90 days, you can use two documents from different sources, even if one is older, as long as one shows your current address.

Renewing by Mail vs. In Person

If your license is valid and you don't need to change your address, name, or other information, you can renew by mail. Send your current license, the renewal process form (DL-44), proof of residency, and the renewal fee to the DPS address listed on the form. Include a copy of your Social Security card or a document showing your number. DPS will return your original documents to you.

You must visit a DPS office in person if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need to update your address or other personal information, if you want to change your license class, or if you're renewing a commercial driver's license. Bring your original documents — DPS will not accept photocopies for in-person renewals.

Social Security Number and Additional Information

You'll need to provide your Social Security number as part of the renewal process. If renewing by mail, you can include a copy of your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a document from a government agency that shows your number. If renewing in person, you can bring the same documents or straightforward provide your number verbally to the DPS employee.

If you're changing your name, you'll need to bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. This applies whether you're renewing by mail or in person.

Timeline and Fees

Mail renewals typically take two to three weeks from the time DPS receives your process. In-person renewals are usually completed the same day. Your new license will be mailed to you within one to two weeks after approval.

Renewal fees depend on how long you want your license to be valid. A five-year license costs around $16 to $25, and an eight-year license costs around $32 to $60. Commercial driver's licenses have higher fees. Check the DPS website or call your local DPS office for the exact fee, as it can vary slightly by location.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it expired more than two years ago?

No, you must visit a DPS office in person. Mail renewal is only for licenses that are still valid. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to the office.

What if I don't have a utility bill for proof of residency?

You can use a lease, bank statement, property tax bill, insurance policy, or vehicle registration instead. The document must be dated within 90 days and show your current address in your name.

Do I need to take a new photo for my renewal?

Not if you're renewing by mail and your license is still valid. If you renew in person, DPS will take a new photo. You can request a new photo by mail for an additional fee if you want one.

What happens if I send my documents by mail and DPS rejects my process?

DPS will return your documents and send you a letter explaining why. You'll then need to visit a DPS office in person with corrected documents to complete the renewal.

Can I renew online?

Yes, if your license is valid and you don't need to change any information. You'll need your current license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method. You'll still receive your new license by mail.