What you need to get a Texas driver license
Texas issues driver licenses through the Department of Public Safety (DPS). To get one, you must visit a DPS driver license office in person with specific documents proving your identity, residency, and Social Security number. You cannot complete this process online or by mail for a first-time license.
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or consular report of birth. You also need one document showing your current Texas address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days works. You must provide your Social Security number or a letter from the Social Security Administration if you do not have one.
You will also take a written test on traffic laws, a vision screening, and a driving test (unless you are renewing or transferring from another state). Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS driver license office in person with your birth certificate or passport, proof of Texas residency, and your Social Security number.
- First-time applicants take a written test, vision screening, and driving test; the entire process takes about 30 to 45 minutes at the office.
- Texas driver licenses are valid for six years for adults 18 and older, and renewal can be done by mail, online, or in person depending on your situation.
- Fees vary by license type and age, ranging from around $16 to $60, and payment is cash, check, or card at the office.
- If you move, change your name, or lose your license, you must update or replace it within a specific timeframe or face penalties.
How to renew your Texas driver license
Renewal is simpler than getting a first license. If your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, you can renew by mail or online through the DPS website. Online renewal takes about 10 minutes and costs less than renewing in person. You will receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
You can renew in person at any DPS office if you prefer, though this takes longer and costs more. In-person renewal is required if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need to update your address or name, or if you have medical conditions that require a vision or medical review.
Texas driver licenses expire on your birthday. Adults 18 to 84 receive licenses valid for six years. If you are 85 or older, your license is valid for five years and requires renewal in person with a vision test.
Fees and payment methods
The cost of a Texas driver license depends on the type and your age. A standard six-year license for an adult costs around $16 to $25 for online or mail renewal, and $25 to $40 for in-person renewal. Replacement licenses (if lost or stolen) cost $11 to $20. Commercial driver licenses and other specialty licenses cost more.
DPS offices accept cash, check, and debit or credit card. Online and mail renewal typically accept credit or debit card only. Fees do not include the cost of the written test or driving test if you are a first-time applicant — those are separate and cost around $10 to $20 combined.
What to do if your license is lost, stolen, or damaged
Report a lost or stolen license to your local police department and then contact DPS. You can request a replacement online, by mail, or in person. Online replacement is the fastest option and takes about 7 to 10 business days. You will need to provide your driver license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
A damaged license can be replaced in person at a DPS office or by mail. Bring the damaged license if you have it, or provide your driver license number and other identifying information. The replacement fee is lower than a new license and the process is faster.
Updating your address or name on your Texas license
If you move within Texas, you must update your address within 30 days. You can do this online through the DPS website if you only need to change your address and your license is not expired. The online change takes about 10 minutes and is free.
If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must update it in person at a DPS office. Bring your current license, a certified copy of the document showing your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and proof of your new address. Name changes cannot be done online or by mail.
Commercial driver licenses and endorsements
A commercial driver license (CDL) is required if you drive a truck or bus for work. The process is more involved than a standard license and includes a medical examination, written tests on vehicle operation and safety, and a driving test with a commercial vehicle. You must be at least 18 years old (21 for interstate driving).
Endorsements are added to a CDL for specific vehicle types or cargo — for example, a hazmat endorsement for transporting hazardous materials. Each endorsement requires an additional written test. CDLs are valid for four years and must be renewed in person at a DPS office.
Identification cards if you do not drive
If you do not have a driver license but need a state-issued photo ID, Texas offers a personal identification card (PID) through DPS. The process is the same as getting a driver license — you visit a DPS office with your birth certificate, proof of residency, and Social Security number. You do not take a driving test.
A PID is valid for six years for adults 18 to 84 and five years for those 85 and older. The fee is similar to a driver license renewal. You can use a PID for voting, banking, air travel, and other situations where a photo ID is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Texas driver license?
At the DPS office, the entire process for a first-time license takes about 30 to 45 minutes, including the written test, vision screening, and driving test. You receive your temporary license on the spot and your permanent license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Can I renew my Texas license if it has been expired for more than a year?
If your license expired less than two years ago, you can renew by mail or online. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a DPS office and may need to retake the written and driving tests depending on how long it has been expired.
What happens if I get pulled over without a valid Texas driver license?
Driving with an expired license is a traffic violation in Texas. You may receive a ticket and fine. If your license has been expired for more than one year, the penalty is higher. Renew your license before it expires to avoid this.
Can I change my address online if my license is expired?
No. Online address changes are only available if your license is still valid. If your license is expired, you must renew it first (in person if expired more than two years) and can update your address at the same time.
Do I need an appointment to visit a DPS driver license office?
Appointments are not required but are strongly recommended. You can book an appointment online through the DPS website to reduce wait times. Walk-ins are accepted but may have longer waits, especially during peak hours or at busy locations.