What DPS Does and Where to Start
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the state agency that issues driver licenses, handles renewals, and manages replacements. You cannot get a Texas driver license from any other source — DPS is the only place that issues them. Whether you are getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or replacing a lost card, you will work directly with DPS.
DPS operates driver license offices across Texas. You can visit one in person, or for some transactions, you can handle them online or by mail. The method you use depends on what you need done and whether your license is currently valid.
Before you go to a DPS office or start an online transaction, gather the documents DPS requires. The specific documents vary based on whether you are a new applicant, renewing, or replacing a license, but all paths require proof of identity and proof of residency in Texas.
Key Takeaways
- DPS is the only agency that issues Texas driver licenses, and you must provide proof of identity and Texas residency no matter which type of transaction you are doing.
- You can renew online through the DPS website if your license is not expired more than two years and you have no medical restrictions or address changes.
- New applicants and people replacing lost licenses must visit a DPS office in person and pass a written test and vision screening.
- DPS offices operate by appointment in most locations, and you can schedule one online at the DPS website before you go.
- Processing times vary: in-person transactions are usually completed the same day, but mail-in renewals can take several weeks.
Documents You Need for Any DPS Transaction
DPS requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of Texas residency. Your proof of identity must show your name, date of birth, and a photo. A current or expired U.S. passport, a military ID, or a previous Texas driver license all work. If you do not have any of those, DPS accepts a certified birth certificate plus a Social Security card.
For proof of residency, DPS needs a document dated within the last 30 days that shows your name and current Texas address. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement all count. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. You cannot use a PO box as your address — DPS requires a physical street address in Texas.
If you are renewing online, you will upload images of these documents through the DPS website. If you are going to an office in person, bring the originals or certified copies. DPS staff will verify them before you leave.
Renewing Your License Online or by Mail
If your Texas driver license expired less than two years ago, you can renew it online through the DPS website without visiting an office. You will need your driver license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to start. The online system will ask you to upload a photo and your proof of residency.
Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal — currently $25 for a four-year license or $40 for an eight-year license — and you receive your new license by mail within two to three weeks. You can use your old license to drive while you wait for the new one to arrive.
If you prefer to renew by mail instead, read the DL-44 form from the DPS website, include a new photo and proof of residency, and mail the packet to the DPS address listed on the form. Mail renewal takes longer, usually three to four weeks, and costs the same as online renewal. Do not use mail renewal if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you have medical restrictions, or if you need to change your address — those situations require an in-person visit.
Getting Your First License or Replacing a Lost One
New applicants and anyone replacing a lost or stolen license must visit a DPS office in person. You cannot complete these transactions online or by mail. At the office, you will provide your identity and residency documents, take a written test on traffic laws, pass a vision screening, and have your photo taken.
The written test covers Texas traffic rules and road signs. You can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which DPS publishes free on its website. Most people take the test on a computer at the DPS office, and you get your score when ready. You must pass with a score of at least 70 percent.
The vision screening checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, DPS will not issue a license until you provide a vision correction certificate from an eye doctor.
After you pass the test and vision screening, DPS takes your photo and issues your license on the spot. You can drive when ready with your new license. The cost for a first-time license or replacement is $25 for a four-year license or $40 for an eight-year license.
Scheduling and Attending Your DPS Office Visit
Most DPS driver license offices now operate by appointment only. You can schedule an appointment online through the DPS website by selecting your county and preferred office location, then choosing an available date and time. Appointments typically fill up weeks in advance, especially in large cities, so schedule as early as you can.
When you arrive for your appointment, bring all required documents and arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. The office will call you by name when it is your turn. The entire process — document verification, written test, vision screening, and photo — usually takes 30 to 45 minutes.
If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it through the DPS website so someone else can use that time slot. If you miss an appointment without canceling, you may have to wait longer to schedule another one.
Address Changes and License Corrections
If you move to a new address in Texas, you must update your driver license within 30 days. You can do this online through the DPS website if your license is not expired and you have no other changes to make. The online address change costs $0 and takes effect when ready.
If your license has expired or you need to make other changes — such as correcting your name or updating your medical restrictions — you must visit a DPS office in person. Bring your current license, proof of your new address, and any documents that support the correction you are requesting. For example, if you are correcting your name, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Texas driver license?
If you visit a DPS office in person, you receive your license the same day. If you renew online or by mail, your license arrives by mail in two to three weeks for online renewal or three to four weeks for mail renewal. Processing times can be longer during peak periods.
What if I fail the written test at the DPS office?
You can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment to try again. There is no extra fee for retaking the test. You have unlimited attempts, but you must pass before DPS will issue your license.
Can I renew my license if it expired more than two years ago?
No. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must explore for a new license in person at a DPS office, not renew it. You will need to take the written test and vision screening again, just as if you were a new applicant.
Do I need an appointment to visit a DPS office?
Most DPS offices require appointments. You can schedule one online through the DPS website. A few offices still accept walk-ins, but appointment availability is limited and wait times are longer. Check the DPS website for your specific office location.
What happens if I lose my license after I receive it?
Report the loss to DPS and request a replacement. You can do this in person at any DPS office or online through the DPS website if your license has not expired. A replacement license costs $25 for a four-year license or $40 for an eight-year license.