What you need to bring to the Texas DPS office

To get a Texas driver license, you will need to bring proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and your Social Security number. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) accepts a limited list of documents for each category, and you must bring originals or certified copies—photocopies alone will not work.

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a Certificate of Naturalization or U.S. Citizenship, a valid foreign passport with a visa, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a military ID. If you are under 18, your parent or guardian must sign the process in person.

For proof of Texas residency, bring one document dated within the last 30 days showing your current address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a letter from a government agency. A bank statement or insurance policy will not work. If you live with someone else, you can bring a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the utility bill or lease, plus a copy of that document.

Bring your original Social Security card or a document showing your number, such as a W-2 form or tax return. You will also need to bring your current driver license if you have one, or a learner permit if you are renewing or upgrading.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring original documents or certified copies—photocopies will be rejected at the DPS office.
  • Proof of residency must be dated within the last 30 days and show your current address; utility bills and lease agreements are the most common options.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test unless you are renewing without changes.
  • The fee for a standard five-year license is $45, and you can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the DPS office.
  • DPS offices do not accept walk-ins; you must schedule an appointment online or by phone before you go.

Taking the written test and vision screening

If you are getting your first Texas license or renewing after your license has expired for more than two years, you must pass a written test on traffic laws and road signs. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You can take the test in English or Spanish. The DPS provides a free study guide on its website that covers all the material on the test.

You will also take a vision screening at the DPS office. The screener will check whether you can see 20/40 or better in each eye, with or without glasses or contacts. If you cannot meet that standard, you may be required to wear corrective lenses while driving, and this restriction will appear on your license.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee for retakes. If you fail the vision screening, the DPS will refer you to an eye care professional and you will need to return with a vision correction certificate before you can get your license.

The driving test and what the examiner checks

After you pass the written and vision tests, you will take a driving test with a DPS examiner. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, turning, stopping, parking, and your ability to follow traffic laws. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and insurance documents must be current and in the car with you.

The examiner will watch for smooth acceleration and braking, proper use of turn signals, correct mirror checking, safe lane changes, and appropriate speed for road conditions. You will also perform a three-point turn or parallel park, depending on the examiner's instructions. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you will need to schedule another appointment and pay the test fee again.

If you are renewing your license and have not had any suspensions or disqualifications, you may not need to take the driving test again. Check your renewal notice or call your local DPS office to confirm what tests you need.

Where to find a DPS office and how to schedule an appointment

Texas has DPS driver license offices in most counties. To find the office nearest you, go to the Texas DPS website and use the office locator tool, or call 1-800-558-9368. The website also shows the hours each office is open, which vary by location. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and some offer limited Saturday hours.

You must schedule an appointment before you visit. You can book online through the DPS website or by calling the office directly. Online scheduling shows available times for the next several weeks. If no appointments are open at your preferred location, you can try a different office or check back later, as new slots are released regularly.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. If you are late, your appointment may be cancelled and you will need to reschedule.

License types and fees in Texas

Texas offers several types of driver licenses depending on your age and driving needs. A standard Class C license is for regular passenger vehicles and costs $45 for a five-year license or $90 for an eight-year license if you are 85 or older. A commercial driver license (CDL) is required if you drive a truck or bus for work and costs more; you will need to pass additional tests and bring medical certification.

If you are under 18, you will get a provisional license, which has restrictions on when you can drive and who can be in the car with you. These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after you have held the license for a certain period without violations.

You can pay the fee by cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the DPS office. The office will issue your license on the spot if you pass all tests. Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days while your plastic card is mailed to your address.

Renewing or replacing your Texas license

If your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, you can renew by mail, online, or in person. To renew online, go to the DPS website and follow the renewal portal. You will need your license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. Online renewal costs $45 and takes about one to two weeks by mail.

If your license has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement at a DPS office or online. A replacement costs $11 and you do not need to retake any tests. Bring your proof of identity and residency, just as you would for a new license.

If your address has changed, you can update it online, by mail, or at a DPS office without renewing your entire license. An address change is free and takes about one to two weeks by mail.

What happens if you fail or need to retake a test

If you fail the written test, you can retake it at your next appointment or the same day if the office allows. There is no extra fee for a retake. If you fail the driving test, you must schedule a new appointment and pay the test fee again, which is included in the license fee.

If you fail the vision screening, the DPS will give you a form to take to an eye care professional. Once you have a vision correction certificate signed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist, you can return to the DPS office and complete your license without retaking the other tests.

If you are unable to pass the driving test after several attempts, you may want to take additional driving lessons or practice with a licensed instructor before trying again. Some driving schools in Texas offer test preparation courses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Texas driver license if I do not have a Social Security number?

If you do not have a Social Security number, you can request an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS and bring that instead. You will also need to bring your passport or visa and proof of residency. Contact your local DPS office to confirm what documents they will accept in your situation.

What if I lost my birth certificate and cannot find another proof of identity?

You can order a certified birth certificate from the Texas Vital Statistics office or the state where you were born. This usually takes one to two weeks by mail. In the meantime, you can bring a valid passport or military ID to the DPS office. If you do not have either, contact your local DPS office about other options.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring something else with my number on it?

You can bring your original Social Security card or any official document showing your number, such as a W-2, tax return, or Social Security statement. The DPS will not accept a photocopy of your card.

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

You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days on the day you pass all tests. Your plastic card will be mailed to your address within one to two weeks. If you do not receive it after three weeks, contact the DPS office where you took your test.

Can I schedule an appointment for someone else, or do I have to do it myself?

You must schedule your own appointment using your name and contact information. A family member or friend cannot schedule it for you. However, if you need help using the online system, you can call the DPS office and ask for information over the phone.