How to Get and Renew Your Texas Driver's License Through DPS

What DPS Does and How to Reach Them

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the state agency that issues driver's licenses, handles renewals, and manages ID cards. If you need a new license, want to renew one that's expiring, or need to update your information, DPS is where you go — either in person at a local office or online for certain transactions.

You can find your nearest DPS office by visiting the Texas DPS website and using their office locator tool. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours. You can also call the DPS Driver License Division at 1-800-558-9368 to ask questions about what you need to bring or to check wait times at specific locations.

Not every transaction can be done online. Renewals by mail or online are available only if your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and you meet other specific conditions. If you're explore for your first license, changing your address, or dealing with a suspension, you'll need to visit an office in person.

Key Takeaways

Texas DPS issues all driver's licenses and ID cards; you must explore in person for a first license but can renew online or by mail if your license is current and unrestricted.
You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number or an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) at any DPS office visit.
A standard Texas driver's license is valid for six years, and DPS will send you a renewal notice about 90 days before it expires.
DPS offices accept appointments through their website, which can reduce wait times significantly compared to walk-in visits.
If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it online; you must resolve the suspension with DPS or the court before explore in person.

Documents You Need to Bring to DPS

DPS requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or ITIN. Bringing the wrong documents will delay your process, so check the DPS website before you go or call ahead if you're unsure.

For proof of identity, DPS accepts a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. If you don't have any of these, you can use a combination of documents like a Social Security card plus a school ID or employee badge, but the rules are strict — call DPS to confirm your specific documents will work.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with your current Texas address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. A bank statement or insurance bill also works if it shows your address.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can show an ITIN letter from the IRS instead. DPS will not issue a license without one or the other.

how the process works for Your First Texas License

If you're getting your first driver's license in Texas, you must visit a DPS office in person. You cannot do this online or by mail. Bring all three categories of documents listed above, plus a completed DL 43 form (the Texas driver's license process), which you can read from the DPS website or fill out at the office.

You will take a written test covering Texas traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test. The written test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. The driving test happens in your own vehicle or a DPS test vehicle, depending on the location. DPS staff will tell you what to expect when you arrive.

If you're under 18, you must also complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test. Bring proof of the course completion and your learner's permit when you explore.

Renewing Your License Online or by Mail

If your Texas license is not suspended, has no medical restrictions, and you meet other conditions, you can renew it without visiting an office. The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing in person.

To renew online, go to the Texas DPS website and select the online renewal option. You'll need your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. You'll pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If you prefer to renew by mail, read the DL 43 form from the DPS website, fill it out, and mail it to the address listed on the form along with your current license and the renewal fee. Mail renewal takes longer — typically 15 to 20 business days — so plan ahead if your license is expiring soon.

You cannot renew online or by mail if your license is suspended, if you have medical restrictions, if you've changed your name, or if you need to update your address. In those cases, you must visit a DPS office in person.

Changing Your Address or Name on Your License

If you've moved to a new address in Texas or changed your name, you need to update your license. Address changes can sometimes be done online through the DPS website if your license is current and unrestricted. Name changes always require an in-person visit.

For an address change online, log into the DPS website with your license number and Social Security number. If you're may be able to access, you can update your address and pay a small fee. Your updated license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

For a name change, visit a DPS office with your current license, proof of your new name (such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and proof of residency. DPS will issue a new license with your updated name. There is no fee for a name change if your license is not expiring within 90 days.

What to Do If Your License Is Suspended or Revoked

A suspended or revoked license means you cannot legally drive in Texas until the suspension is lifted. Suspensions happen for reasons like unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or accumulating too many points from traffic violations. Revocations are more serious and usually result from DUI convictions or repeated violations.

To find out why your license is suspended, call DPS at 1-800-558-9368 or check the DPS website with your license number and Social Security number. The reason for the suspension determines what you must do to restore it. You may need to pay a fine, resolve a court case, or complete a defensive driving course.

Once you've resolved the issue that caused the suspension, you can request reinstatement through DPS. Some reinstatements happen automatically once the underlying problem is fixed; others require you to visit a DPS office or submit paperwork. DPS will tell you the exact steps when you call or check online.

Using DPS Appointments and Walk-In Hours

DPS offices accept appointments through their website, and booking ahead can save you an hour or more of waiting. Go to the Texas DPS website, select your nearest office, and choose an available time slot. You'll receive a confirmation email with your appointment details.

If you don't have an appointment, you can still walk in during office hours, but wait times vary widely depending on the location and time of day. Mornings early in the week typically have shorter waits than afternoons or Fridays. Some offices are busier than others, so if your nearest office has a long wait, you may be able to visit a different location instead.

Bring all required documents even if you have an appointment. DPS staff will check your documents before you take any tests or pay any fees, so having everything ready speeds up the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a Texas driver's license last?

A standard Texas driver's license is valid for six years from the date it's issued. DPS will mail you a renewal notice about 90 days before your license expires. If you're over 85 years old, your license is valid for five years instead.

Can I renew my license if it's already expired?

Yes, but you cannot renew an expired license online or by mail. You must visit a DPS office in person with your expired license and all required documents. DPS can renew licenses that have been expired for up to two years without requiring you to retake the written and driving tests.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

Visit a DPS office with proof of identity and proof of residency. You'll fill out a replacement form, pay a small fee, and receive a new license. If you believe your license was stolen and used fraudulently, report it to DPS and consider filing a police report as well.

Do I need to take the driving test again if I renew my license?

No. If you're renewing a valid license, you do not retake the written or driving test. You only take tests if you're explore for your first license or if your license has been expired for more than two years.

How much does a Texas driver's license cost?

The cost varies depending on the type of license and how long it's valid for. A standard six-year license costs one amount, while a five-year or two-year license costs less. Check the DPS website or call 1-800-558-9368 for current fees, as they can change.

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.