Bring These Documents to the DPS Office

Texas requires you to bring an original or certified copy of a document proving your identity, a document proving your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. You cannot use a photocopy or a photo of a document on your phone — the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) needs to see the physical original or a certified copy issued by the government agency that created it.

You will also need to bring your Social Security card or a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form, tax return, or Social Security Administration letter. If you do not have your Social Security card, you can request a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DPS appointment, though this adds time to the process.

Bring a document showing your current Texas address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you have recently moved and your address documents are not yet in your name, bring a signed letter from your landlord or property owner on their letterhead, along with a utility bill or lease showing the address.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies and phone photos are not accepted by the DPS.
  • Identity documents include a U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, permanent resident card, or visa paired with an I-94 form.
  • Your Social Security card, W-2, tax return, or an SSA letter proves your Social Security number.
  • Address proof must be dated within 30 days and can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail.
  • If you were born outside the U.S., bring your passport or visa along with proof of lawful presence in the United States.

Identity Documents the DPS Will Accept

An original U.S. passport or a certified copy of your birth certificate issued by the vital records office in the county or state where you were born both work as identity documents. If you were born in Texas, you can order a certified birth certificate from the Texas Vital Statistics Unit. If you were born in another state, contact that state's vital records office — each state has its own process and fee.

If you are a permanent resident or have a visa, bring your Permanent Resident Card (green card) or your passport paired with your I-94 arrival/departure record. The I-94 is a separate document you can retrieve from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website if you do not have the physical copy. A military ID also counts as an identity document if you are on active duty or retired.

A Texas ID card you already hold can serve as your identity document when you renew your driver's license, but you cannot use it to get your first license. The same applies to an expired driver's license from any state — it proves who you are but only if you are renewing, not explore for the first time.

What Happens If You Do Not Have All Documents

If you do not have a birth certificate or passport, the DPS can accept other documents in combination. A high school diploma or GED certificate paired with a Social Security card and address proof may work. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order can also substitute for a birth certificate in some cases. Call the DPS at 1-888-589-6789 to describe what documents you have and ask whether your combination will be accepted before you make a trip to the office.

If you cannot locate your birth certificate, you do not need to wait. Order a certified copy from the vital records office now — the process usually takes one to two weeks by mail, though expedited options are available for an additional fee. While you wait, gather your Social Security card and address proof so you have everything ready when the birth certificate arrives.

If you are a non-citizen, the rules are stricter. You must bring proof of lawful presence in the United States, which means a visa, green card, employment authorization document (EAD), or another document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. A passport alone is not enough. If your immigration status is unclear or you have questions about what documents prove lawful presence, contact the DPS before your appointment.

Documents You Do Not Need to Bring

You do not need to bring your Social Security card itself if you have another document showing your number — a W-2, 1099, tax return, or a letter from the Social Security Administration all work. You do not need to bring multiple address documents; one dated within the last 30 days is sufficient. You do not need to bring your old driver's license from another state if you are moving to Texas, though it can help prove your identity if it is still valid.

You do not need to bring a notarized letter or any document that has been notarized. The DPS does not require notarization. You do not need to bring a certified copy of your Social Security card — the original card is what the DPS wants to see. You do not need to bring proof of residency if you are a student living in a dorm; a letter from your school on official letterhead stating your address works instead.

How to Order Documents Before Your Appointment

If you need a birth certificate, go to the vital records office website for the state where you were born. Texas residents can order from the Texas Vital Statistics Unit at vitalstatistics.dshs.texas.gov or by calling 1-888-963-7111. Out-of-state residents should search "[your state] vital records" to find the correct office. Most states charge between $15 and $35 for a certified copy and offer standard mail (one to two weeks) or expedited options (three to five business days for an extra fee).

If you need a replacement Social Security card, visit ssa.gov or go to your local Social Security office. You can explore online, by mail, or in person. The online process is fastest if you have a My Social Security account; otherwise, expect five to seven business days by mail. If you need a replacement green card or other immigration document, contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services through uscis.gov.

If you need a replacement passport, the State Department's website (travel.state.gov) shows processing times and fees. Standard processing takes four to six weeks; expedited processing takes two to three weeks. If you need your documents faster, some vital records offices and passport agencies offer same-day or next-day service for an additional rush fee.

What to Bring on the Day of Your Appointment

Bring all original documents or certified copies in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Bring your Social Security card in its original form, not a photo or a copy. Bring your address document in its original form as well. If any of your documents are in a language other than English, bring the original plus an English translation certified by a translator — the DPS will not accept uncertified translations.

Bring your completed DL 43 form (process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card), which you can fill out at home before your appointment or at the DPS office. Bring your vision test results if you have had an eye exam within the last 12 months and want to use those results instead of taking the DPS vision test. Bring your payment method — the DPS accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. The fee for a first-time driver's license is $33 for a four-year license or $66 for an eight-year license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo of my documents instead of bringing the originals?

No. The DPS requires you to bring the physical original documents or certified copies. Photos on your phone, photocopies, and faxes are not accepted. The only exception is if you are renewing your license online or by mail, in which case you may be able to upload images, but you should check the DPS website for current rules on remote renewals.

What if my address on my identity document does not match my current address?

Bring both your old address document and a new one dated within the last 30 days showing your current address. The DPS uses the new document to update your address on your license. If you have just moved and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, a signed letter from your landlord or property owner on their letterhead, paired with a utility bill showing the address, will work.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a W-2?

No. A W-2, tax return, or Social Security Administration letter all prove your Social Security number. You do not need to bring the card itself if you have one of these documents. However, if you have the card and it is easier to bring it, you can.

What if I was born outside the United States?

Bring your passport or visa paired with your I-94 form to prove your identity and lawful presence. If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card. If you are a citizen but were born abroad, bring your U.S. passport or a certified copy of your Certificate of Naturalization. The DPS will not issue a license without proof of lawful presence.

How long does it take to get a birth certificate if I do not have one?

Standard mail processing takes one to two weeks in most states. Expedited options are available for an additional fee and usually take three to five business days. Some vital records offices offer in-person pickup or same-day service. Check the website for the state where you were born to see what options are available and what the fees are.