What you need to bring to the Texas DPS office
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires specific documents before you can get a driver's license. You must bring proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents that work vary depending on whether you were born in the U.S. or outside it.
For proof of identity, bring your U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, or foreign passport with an I-94 arrival/departure record. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 30 days showing your current Texas address. For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form.
You will also need to bring your completed DL 44 form (process for Texas Driver License) or DL 44 (Commercial Driver License) if you are explore for a commercial license. You can fill this out at home or at the DPS office. Bring your current out-of-state driver's license if you have one.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring proof of identity, Texas residency, and your Social Security number to a DPS office in person.
- You will pass a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test before you receive your license.
- The written test covers Texas traffic rules and can be taken in English or Spanish.
- Your first Texas driver's license is valid for four years if you are under 85 years old.
- DPS offices have different hours and wait times, so check your local office's schedule before you go.
The written test and what it covers
The written test has 30 questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, and what different road signs mean.
You can take the test in English or Spanish. The DPS office will give you the test on a computer or on paper, depending on the location. You are allowed to take the test more than once if you do not pass the first time, though you may have to wait and pay a retest fee.
If you are over 85 years old, you may be required to pass a written test every time you renew your license instead of every four years. Study materials are available on the Texas DPS website, including a free online practice test.
Vision and driving tests
After you pass the written test, you will take a vision screening at the DPS office. The screener will check that you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.
Next, a DPS examiner will take you on a driving test that usually lasts 10 to 15 minutes. You will drive on local roads while the examiner watches and scores your performance. The test checks your ability to start the vehicle, steer, brake, turn, park, and follow traffic laws. You must pass this test to receive your license.
If you do not pass the driving test, you can retake it after waiting the required time and paying the retest fee. The DPS office will tell you when you can schedule your next attempt.
How long the process takes and what it costs
The entire process at the DPS office usually takes one to three hours, depending on how busy the office is. Wait times vary by location and time of day. You can check wait times for your local DPS office on the Texas DPS website before you go.
A four-year driver's license costs $33. If you are 85 years old or older, your license is valid for two years and costs $16. Payment methods accepted at DPS offices include cash, debit card, and credit card.
If you need to retake the written or driving test, each retest costs $7. You will need to pay this fee each time you take the test again.
Finding a DPS office near you and scheduling an appointment
Texas has DPS driver license offices in most cities and towns. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Texas DPS website. Some offices are open Monday through Friday, while others have Saturday hours. Hours vary by location.
You do not need to schedule an appointment at most DPS offices — you can walk in during business hours. However, some offices now offer online appointment scheduling to reduce wait times. Check your local office's website to see if appointments are available in your area.
If you live in a rural area far from a DPS office, you may be able to take your written test at a county tax assessor's office or other authorized location. Call your local DPS office to ask about testing locations near you.
Special situations: Renewals, replacements, and name changes
If you already have a Texas driver's license and it is expiring, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a DPS office. Renewals by mail or online are faster and cheaper than getting a new license. You can renew online through the Texas DPS website if your license is not suspended or revoked and you have not had a major change in your medical condition.
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to get a replacement. Bring your proof of identity and residency to a DPS office and pay the replacement fee. A replacement license costs $11.
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring a certified copy of the document showing the change along with your other required documents. The DPS will issue a new license with your updated name.
Documents you cannot use and common mistakes
Some documents that people bring do not count as proof of identity or residency. A school ID, library card, or expired passport will not work as proof of identity. For residency, a cell phone bill, credit card statement, or insurance bill will not work — the document must be from a utility company, landlord, or government agency.
The most common mistake is bringing documents that are not dated within the last 30 days for residency proof. If your utility bill or lease is older than 30 days, bring a different document. Another common mistake is forgetting to bring the original documents — copies are not accepted.
If you are not a U.S. citizen, make sure your immigration documents are current and valid. An expired visa or I-94 will not work. If you are unsure whether your documents are acceptable, call your local DPS office before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test in a language other than English or Spanish?
The written test is available in English and Spanish only. If you need help understanding the questions, some DPS offices have staff who can information, but the test itself is not offered in other languages. Contact your local office to ask about available support.
What happens if I fail the driving test?
You can retake the driving test after waiting the required time and paying the $7 retest fee. The DPS office will tell you when you can schedule your next attempt. Most people pass on their second or third try.
Do I need to take the written test again if I already have a driver's license from another state?
Yes, you must pass the Texas written test even if you have a valid out-of-state license. Texas does not waive the written test for people moving from other states. You will still need to pass the vision and driving tests as well.
How old do I have to be to get a driver's license in Texas?
You must be at least 16 years old to get a driver's license in Texas. If you are 16 or 17, you will need to complete a driver education course and have a learner's permit for at least six months before you can take the driving test.
Can I renew my license online if I am over 85?
No, drivers over 85 must renew in person at a DPS office. You will also need to pass a written test each time you renew instead of every four years. Bring the same documents you would bring for a new license.