What you need before you walk into the DPS office

Texas issues driver's licenses through the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and you'll need to visit a DPS driver license office in person. Before you go, gather these documents: proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consulate ID card), proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days), proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099), and a completed DL-44 form if you're explore for the first time.

If you're renewing or replacing a license, the requirements are simpler — you may only need your current license and proof of residency. Bring originals and copies of everything; the office will tell you which documents they'll keep. If your name has changed since your identity documents were issued, bring the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS driver license office in person; there is no online or mail option for a new Texas license.
  • Bring proof of identity, Texas residency, and Social Security number, along with the DL-44 form if you're explore for the first time.
  • The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving; you can study using the Texas Driver Handbook available free on the DPS website.
  • Vision and driving tests are required for new licenses; bring glasses or contacts if you use them.
  • Processing takes about two weeks by mail, though you can request a temporary paper license to drive while you wait.

Finding the DPS office nearest you and what to expect

The DPS website has a locator tool where you can enter your city or zip code to find the nearest driver license office and its hours. Offices are open Monday through Friday, and some locations offer Saturday hours. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now use an online reservation system — check your local office's page before you go, because walk-ins may face long waits or be turned away if the office is at capacity.

Arrive early in the day if possible. Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they don't get separated. The staff will review your paperwork, take your photograph, and collect your fee. As of 2024, a new five-year license costs $25 for drivers under 85; an eight-year license costs $40. Fees vary slightly for commercial licenses and other categories.

The written test and what it covers

If you're explore for your first Texas license or your license has been expired for more than two years, you must pass a written test. The test has 30 questions and covers road signs, traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You need to answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish, and large-print and audio versions are available if you request them.

Study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the DPS website and covers everything on the test. You can also take practice tests online through the DPS site. The test is administered on a computer at the DPS office, and you'll get your results when ready. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day — there's no limit on attempts, though you may have to pay a retest fee.

The vision and driving tests

You'll take a vision screening at the DPS office to make sure you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to get a corrective lens restriction on your license, meaning you must wear glasses or contacts whenever you drive.

The driving test is a practical exam where a DPS officer rides with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you provide) and watches you perform basic driving tasks — starting the car, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You must demonstrate that you can control the vehicle safely and obey traffic signs and signals. The test usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. If you fail, you can retake it after a waiting period, which varies by location.

After you pass: getting your physical license

Once you pass all tests and your paperwork is approved, the DPS will issue your license. You can choose to have it mailed to you, which takes about two weeks, or you can request a temporary paper license to drive while you wait for the plastic card to arrive. The temporary license is valid for 45 days and is printed on the spot.

Your new license will be mailed to the address you provided on your process. If you move before it arrives, you can update your address on the DPS website or at a driver license office. Keep your temporary license with you until the permanent one arrives — it's your proof that you're licensed to drive.

Renewing or replacing an existing Texas license

If your license is still valid and you're just renewing it, the process is faster. You can renew online through the DPS website if your license is not expired and you meet certain conditions — mainly that you have no medical restrictions and your address hasn't changed. Online renewal takes about two weeks and costs $25 for a five-year renewal or $40 for eight years.

If you can't renew online, you can renew in person at a DPS office. Bring your current license and proof of residency. You won't need to retake the written or driving test unless your license has been expired for more than two years. If your license is lost or stolen, report it to the DPS and explore for a replacement; the process is the same as renewing, and the fee is the same.

Special situations: commercial licenses and other categories

If you need a commercial driver's license (CDL) to drive a truck or bus, the requirements are more involved. You'll need to pass additional written tests covering air brakes, hazardous materials, and other topics depending on what you'll be driving. You'll also take a longer driving test in a commercial vehicle. The DPS website lists the specific requirements for each CDL class.

If you're explore for a license with a motorcycle endorsement, you'll need to pass a separate motorcycle written test and a motorcycle riding test. Some DPS offices partner with motorcycle training schools that can waive the riding test if you complete their course. Check with your local office to see if this option is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Texas driver's license?

If you pass all tests on your first visit, you'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and can drive right away. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail in about two weeks. If you need to retake a test, the timeline extends depending on when you schedule your next attempt.

What if I'm moving to Texas from another state?

You can drive on your out-of-state license for a limited time, but you must get a Texas license once you establish residency. Bring your current out-of-state license along with your other documents. You won't need to retake the written or driving test if your out-of-state license is valid, but you will need to pass the vision test.

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. The DPS offers the written test in Spanish and several other languages. When you arrive at the DPS office, let the staff know which language you need, and they'll provide the test in that language.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test after a waiting period. The waiting period and retesting fee vary by DPS office, so ask the staff when you fail what the next steps are. There's no limit on how many times you can retake it.

Do I need to bring my own vehicle for the driving test?

Yes, you must provide a vehicle that's registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. Some DPS offices have vehicles available for testing, but this varies by location — call ahead to ask if your office provides test vehicles.