How to Get a Texas Driver's License or ID Card

What you need to do to get a Texas license

To get a Texas driver's license or ID card, you visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, bring required documents, pass a written test and vision check, and pay a fee. The process takes about 30 minutes to an hour on the day you explore. You cannot complete this entirely online or by mail — DPS requires you to appear in person and pass the knowledge test at their location.

Texas issues two main documents: a driver's license (if you want to operate a vehicle) or a standard ID card (for identification only, no driving privileges). Both require the same documents and follow the same process, though the knowledge and driving tests explore only to the license.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a DPS office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number or a letter stating you do not have one.
A standard ID card requires no test; a driver's license requires you to pass a written knowledge test and a vision screening at the DPS office.
Texas charges a fee based on how long you want the license to last — typically $16 for a two-year ID or $33 for a five-year driver's license.
If you are under 18, you need a parent or guardian's signature and consent, and the rules for provisional licenses are stricter.
You can find your nearest DPS office and check wait times on the Texas DPS website before you go.

Documents you must bring to the DPS office

DPS requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You cannot substitute one for another, and documents must be originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.

Proof of identity means a document issued by a government agency that shows your name, date of birth, and photograph. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID, or a foreign national ID if you are not yet a U.S. citizen. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a certified copy of your birth certificate plus one additional document showing your name and date of birth, such as a school record or medical record.

Proof of residency must show your current Texas address. DPS accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a government document with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. If you live with someone else and do not have a document in your name, you can bring a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the bill, plus their ID.

Proof of Social Security number can be your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub showing your full number. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one. Immigrants without a Social Security number can bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) letter instead.

The written test and vision screening

If you are getting a driver's license, you must pass a written knowledge test at the DPS office. The test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer 30 multiple-choice questions and must get at least 21 correct to pass. DPS provides study materials online, including a free manual and practice tests.

The vision screening checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. You read letters or numbers on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, you wear them during the test. If you fail the vision test, DPS will not issue you a license until you bring proof from an eye doctor that your vision meets the standard.

If you are getting a standard ID card (not a driver's license), you do not take either test. You pay the fee and receive your card.

Fees and how long your license lasts

Texas charges different fees depending on the type of document and how long you want it to be valid. A standard ID card costs $16 for a two-year card or $32 for a five-year card. A driver's license costs $33 for a five-year license or $66 for an eight-year license. Renewal fees are lower than initial issuance fees.

DPS accepts cash, debit, and credit cards at most offices. Some offices may have limits on which payment methods they take, so check with your local office before you go. If you cannot afford the fee, ask the DPS staff whether your office has a fee waiver program — some do, though availability varies by location.

If you are under 18

Texas issues provisional licenses to drivers under 18. A provisional license has restrictions: you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. (with limited exceptions), you cannot use a cell phone while driving, and you must have a licensed adult in the front seat for the first six months. These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after you hold the provisional license for one year, whichever comes first.

To get a provisional license, you must bring a parent or legal guardian with you to the DPS office. They must sign a consent form. You still need all the same documents (proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number). You must pass the written test and vision screening. If you are 14 or 15, you must also complete a driver education course and a behind-the-wheel training course from an approved provider before DPS will issue the license.

At age 18, you can convert your provisional license to a standard adult license by visiting a DPS office and paying a conversion fee. You do not retake the test.

Where to find a DPS office and what to expect

Texas has DPS driver license offices in every county. You can search for your nearest office on the Texas DPS website by entering your city or ZIP code. The website also shows current wait times at each office, updated throughout the day.

Most offices operate Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have limited Saturday hours. Wait times vary widely — some offices have a 15-minute wait, others an hour or more. Going early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits. You can also check whether your office takes walk-ins or requires an appointment; some offices now use an online appointment system.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost. Arrive with time to spare — if you are late and the office closes before you finish, you may have to return another day. Once you pass the test and pay the fee, DPS issues your license or ID card on the spot, though the photo may take a few minutes to print.

Renewing or replacing a license

If your license is expiring, you can renew it by mail or online if you meet certain conditions: your license must not be expired by more than two years, you must not have any medical conditions that require an in-person renewal, and you must not have changed your name or address. If you meet these conditions, you can renew online through the Texas DPS website or request a renewal by mail.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it at a DPS office. Bring your documents and pay a replacement fee (usually lower than an initial issuance fee). If your license was stolen, you may want to report the theft to local police first, though it is not required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Texas license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for one. If you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), bring that letter instead. DPS will issue your license without a Social Security number.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day at most offices, though you may have to pay the test fee again. Study the Texas Driver Handbook (available free online) and try again. Most people pass on the second or third attempt.

How long does it take to get my license after I explore?

You receive your license or ID card the same day you explore, as long as you pass the test and bring all required documents. The card is printed on site. If DPS needs to verify information or you fail the vision test, you may need to return later.

Can I use my Texas ID card to fly on an airplane?

A standard Texas ID card is not acceptable for domestic air travel. You need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license, passport, or military ID. Texas driver's licenses issued after January 2010 are REAL ID-compliant; older ones are not. Ask the DPS staff whether your license meets the standard.

What happens if I move to Texas from another state?

You must get a Texas license within 60 days of moving to the state. Bring your out-of-state license along with your proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. You will still need to pass the written test and vision screening, though some states have reciprocal agreements that waive the test — ask DPS whether your state qualifies.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.