Texas driver's license and ID card fees depend on the type of document and how long you want it to last

A standard Texas driver's license costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. An ID card (for people who don't drive) costs $16 for four years or $32 for eight years. If you're under 18, a driver's license is $10 for four years. These are the base fees the Texas Department of Public Safety charges; some counties add a small county fee on top, usually $1 to $3.

The fee you pay depends on whether you're renewing an existing license, getting your first one, or replacing a lost or damaged document. Replacement licenses cost the same as renewal fees. If you need your license faster than the standard processing time, Texas offers expedited service for an additional charge.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard four-year Texas driver's license costs $16; an eight-year license costs $32.
  • ID cards for non-drivers cost the same as driver's licenses: $16 for four years or $32 for eight years.
  • Minors under 18 pay $10 for a four-year driver's license.
  • Your county may add a small fee ($1 to $3) on top of the state fee.
  • Expedited processing and certain document types (such as commercial driver's licenses) carry higher fees.

Renewal versus replacement: what each costs

Renewing an expiring license costs the same as replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged one—$16 for four years or $32 for eight years. The Texas Department of Public Safety does not charge a premium for replacement documents. However, if you need to change information on your license (such as your address or name), you may need to visit a driver's license office in person rather than renewing by mail or online, and some changes may require additional documents.

If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward renew it. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the Texas Department of Public Safety, which may involve paying reinstatement fees separate from the license fee itself. Reinstatement fees vary depending on the reason for the suspension.

Commercial driver's license fees

A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs more than a standard license. A four-year CDL costs $50, and an eight-year CDL costs $100. These fees explore whether you're getting your first CDL or renewing an existing one. If you need to add or remove endorsements (such as hazmat or passenger endorsements), there may be additional fees.

CDL holders must also pass knowledge and skills tests, which are administered by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Test fees are separate from the license fee and vary depending on which tests you need to take.

How to pay and where to pay it

You can renew your Texas driver's license online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website if your license is not suspended, you have not had more than two licenses in the past year, and you meet other may be able to access requirements. Online renewal costs the same as in-person renewal. You pay by credit card, debit card, or electronic check.

If you cannot renew online, you must visit a driver's license office in person. You can find the office nearest you on the Texas Department of Public Safety website. Payment methods at offices include cash, check, credit card, and debit card. Some offices may have limited hours or require an appointment, so check ahead before you go.

Expedited processing and rush fees

If you need your license faster than the standard processing time, Texas offers expedited service. Expedited processing typically takes 1 to 2 weeks instead of 3 to 4 weeks. The cost for expedited service is an additional $15 on top of your license fee. You can request expedited processing when you renew online or in person at a driver's license office.

Rush service, which is faster than expedited service, costs more. Rush processing typically takes 3 to 5 business days and costs an additional $25. Not all driver's license offices offer rush service, so contact your local office to find out whether it is available in your area.

Duplicate licenses and name or address changes

If you want a duplicate license (an extra copy of your current license with the same information), the fee is $10. A duplicate is useful if you want to keep one license at home and carry another. Duplicates are valid for the same length of time as your original license.

If you need to change your name or address on your license, you can do so by mail or in person. A name change requires a certified copy of a court order or marriage certificate. An address change can usually be done online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website at no additional cost if you are straightforward updating your address. If you need a new photo or other changes, you may need to visit an office in person and pay the renewal fee.

What affects your total cost

Your final cost depends on several factors: the type of license (standard, ID card, or CDL), how long you want it to last (four or eight years), whether you are a minor, and whether you choose expedited or rush processing. County fees add $1 to $3 to the state fee. If you need a new photo or are making changes beyond a straightforward address update, you may pay the full renewal fee rather than a smaller update fee.

The Texas Department of Public Safety website lists the exact fees for your situation. You can also call your local driver's license office to confirm the total cost before you go in person or renew online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas license online, and does it cost less?

You can renew online through the Texas Department of Public Safety website if your license is not suspended and you meet other requirements. Online renewal costs the same as in-person renewal—$16 for four years or $32 for eight years—but saves you a trip to the office.

Do I have to pay extra if I want my license to last eight years instead of four?

Yes. An eight-year license costs $32, while a four-year license costs $16. The eight-year option costs twice as much but lasts twice as long, so the annual cost is the same either way.

What if I lose my license or it gets damaged—do I pay more to replace it?

No. Replacement licenses cost the same as renewal: $16 for four years or $32 for eight years. You do not pay a separate replacement fee.

How much does expedited processing cost?

Expedited processing costs an additional $15 on top of your license fee and takes 1 to 2 weeks. Rush processing costs an additional $25 and takes 3 to 5 business days, but not all offices offer it.

Will my county add a fee on top of the state fee?

Most Texas counties add a small fee of $1 to $3. Contact your local driver's license office or check the Texas Department of Public Safety website to find out what your county charges.