What you need to get a Texas driver's license

To get a Texas driver's license, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. You cannot complete this entirely online or by mail — the DPS requires you to pass a vision test and written exam at an office location.

Proof of identity means a U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, or foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return. If you cannot produce these documents, the DPS has a list of acceptable alternatives on its website.

You will also need to pass a written test on Texas traffic laws and road signs, and a vision screening. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return later. Most offices do not require an appointment, but some locations now use an online scheduling system — check your local DPS office website before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • You must appear in person at a Texas DPS office with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number to receive a driver's license.
  • The written test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs, and you can retake it the same day if you do not pass.
  • A standard Texas driver's license is valid for six years, and renewal can be done by mail, online, or in person depending on your situation.
  • If you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for at least six months before taking the driving test.
  • Texas charges different fees for different license types — a standard license costs less than a Real ID-compliant license, which is required for federal buildings and flights.

Learner's permit requirements for drivers under 18

If you are under 18, Texas requires you to hold a learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test for a full license. To get a learner's permit, you must be at least 14 years old, complete a driver education course (either classroom or online), and pass the written test on traffic laws and road signs.

The driver education course must be approved by the Texas Education Agency. Many high schools offer this course free, and private driving schools also offer it for a fee. Once you complete the course, you receive a certificate of completion that you bring to the DPS office along with your other documents.

While you hold a learner's permit, you must have a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the front seat with you at all times. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving. After six months with the permit, you can schedule a driving test at a DPS office.

The driving test and what to expect

The driving test in Texas lasts about 25 minutes and takes place on public roads near the DPS office. You must bring the vehicle you will be tested in, and it must be in safe working condition with valid registration and insurance. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers like parking, turning, and stopping, and will evaluate how you handle traffic and follow road signs.

You must pass the vision screening and written test before you can take the driving test. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it, but you must wait at least one day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, though each attempt costs a fee.

If you pass, the DPS will issue your license on the spot or mail it to you within one to two weeks, depending on the office. Your first Texas license is valid for six years if you are 18 or older, or until age 18 if you received it as a minor.

Renewing your Texas driver's license

You can renew your Texas driver's license online, by mail, or in person, depending on when it expires and whether you need to update your information. If your license is not suspended or revoked, and you have not changed your name or address, you can renew online at the Texas DPS website up to two years before expiration or one year after expiration.

Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal and takes about 10 minutes. You will receive your new license by mail within one to two weeks. If you need to change your address or name, or if your license has been expired for more than one year, you must renew in person at a DPS office.

Mail renewal is also available for some drivers. You must complete an process form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail it to the address on the DPS website. Processing takes two to four weeks, and you should not drive on an expired license while waiting for your renewal to arrive.

Real ID versus standard Texas driver's license

Texas offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a Real ID-compliant license. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal standards for identification. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID license or another acceptable federal ID to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building.

To get a Real ID license, you must provide the same documents as a standard license, plus proof of citizenship or legal residency status. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, certificate of naturalization, or a green card. The Real ID license costs more than a standard license and is valid for six years.

If you do not plan to fly or enter federal buildings, a standard license is sufficient for driving and other purposes. You can upgrade from a standard license to a Real ID license at any time by visiting a DPS office with your citizenship or residency documents.

Fees and processing times for Texas driver's licenses

The cost of a Texas driver's license depends on the type and how long it is valid for. A standard six-year license costs one amount, while a Real ID license costs more. A learner's permit costs less than a full license. Fees vary slightly by DPS office location, so check your local office for exact pricing.

Processing times also vary. If you explore in person, you receive your license when ready or by mail within one to two weeks. Online renewal takes one to two weeks by mail. Mail renewal takes two to four weeks. If you need a license urgently, explore in person at a DPS office is the fastest option.

The DPS accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at most offices. Some offices may have different payment methods, so call ahead if you have questions about what your local office accepts.

What to do if your Texas driver's license is lost or stolen

If your license is lost or stolen, you can replace it by visiting a DPS office in person or by mail. You do not need to take a new written or driving test — you only need to provide proof of identity and pay a replacement fee. The replacement license will have the same expiration date as your original license.

If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police, though this is not required to replace it. The police report can be useful if someone uses your license fraudulently. You can also place a fraud alert with the credit bureaus if you are concerned about identity theft.

Replacement by mail takes two to four weeks. Replacement in person is faster — you receive your license when ready or by mail within one to two weeks. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the DPS office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas driver's license if it has been expired for more than a year?

No, you cannot renew online or by mail if your license has been expired for more than one year. You must explore in person at a DPS office and may need to retake the written test and vision screening. Bring the same documents you would need for a new license.

Do I need a Real ID license to drive in Texas?

No, a standard Texas driver's license is sufficient for driving anywhere in Texas and the United States. You only need a Real ID license if you plan to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025.

How long does it take to get a Texas driver's license after I pass the driving test?

If you pass the driving test in person at a DPS office, you receive your license when ready or by mail within one to two weeks. Some offices issue licenses on the spot; others mail them. Ask the examiner which applies to your office.

What happens if I fail the written test in Texas?

You can retake the written test the same day at most DPS offices, or you can return another day. There is no waiting period between attempts. Each attempt costs a fee, so ask your local office about pricing before you retake the test.

Can I change my address on my Texas driver's license without renewing it?

Yes, you can update your address at any DPS office without renewing your license. Bring proof of your new address and your current license. The DPS will issue you a new license with the updated address, and you pay a small fee for the change.