Documents you must bring to the Texas DPS office

Texas requires you to bring an original or certified copy of one document proving your identity, plus one document proving your Social Security number, plus two documents proving your Texas residency. You cannot use the same document twice — each category needs a separate piece of paper.

For identity, bring your passport, certified birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or permanent resident card. A photocopy or hospital birth certificate will not work; it must be certified by the issuing agency. If you were born outside the United States and do not have a passport or permanent resident card, you will need to visit a county clerk's office first to get a certified copy of your birth certificate before you go to the DPS.

For Social Security verification, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a document from the Social Security Administration. A paystub with your full Social Security number printed on it also works. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a license, but you will need to bring an affidavit stating that you are not may be able to access for one — the DPS office can provide this form.

For Texas residency, bring two documents from this list: a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, property tax bill, homeowners or renters insurance policy, bank or credit union statement, paycheck stub, or a letter from a government agency. The documents must show your name and current Texas address and be dated within the last 90 days. A utility bill counts as one document even if you bring multiple bills.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one identity document (passport, certified birth certificate, or permanent resident card), one Social Security document (Social Security card or W-2), and two residency documents (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days).
  • Photocopies and hospital-issued birth certificates do not meet the identity requirement; you must bring certified copies from the issuing agency.
  • If you were born outside the United States and lack a passport, visit your county clerk to obtain a certified birth certificate before going to the DPS.
  • The DPS office will take your photograph and administer a written test on traffic laws, so arrive prepared to spend one to two hours at the location.
  • Texas charges a fee for a driver's license that varies by age and license type; the DPS website lists current fees by category.

What happens during your DPS appointment

Bring all your documents to your local DPS office during business hours. You do not need to schedule an appointment in advance at most locations, though some offices now offer online scheduling to reduce wait times. Check the DPS website for your nearest office and its current hours before you go.

A DPS employee will review your documents to confirm they meet the requirements. If any document is missing or does not match the criteria, you will be turned away and asked to return with the correct paperwork. Once your documents pass review, you will have your photograph taken and receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to your address.

You will then take a written test covering Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The test has 30 questions; you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most offices. After you pass the test, you will take a vision screening. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.

Age-specific rules and restrictions

If you are under 18, you must have a parent or legal guardian present at the DPS office with a government-issued ID. You will also need to bring a completed form from your high school or homeschool program showing that you are enrolled in school or have completed your education. If you are homeschooled, bring a letter from your parent on homeschool letterhead stating that you are enrolled.

Drivers under 18 receive a provisional license with restrictions. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. for the first six months, and you cannot drive between midnight and 4 a.m. for the next six months. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in an emergency. These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after you hold the provisional license for 12 months, whichever comes first.

If you are 18 or older, you need only your own ID and documents; a parent or guardian does not need to be present. You will receive a standard driver's license valid for eight years. If you are 79 or older, your license is valid for five years, and you must renew in person rather than by mail or online.

Fees and license validity periods

Texas charges different fees depending on your age and the type of license. A standard driver's license for someone aged 18 to 78 costs less than a license for someone under 18 or over 79. The DPS website lists exact fees by category, and fees change periodically. You can pay by cash, check, or card at the DPS office.

A standard driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. If you are under 18 when you get your license, it expires on your 18th birthday or eight years from issue, whichever comes first. If you are 79 or older, your license is valid for five years. You will receive a notice in the mail about 60 days before your license expires; you can renew online, by mail, or in person depending on your age and whether you need a new photograph.

If you have a commercial driving need

If you plan to drive a commercial vehicle — a truck over 26,001 pounds, a vehicle carrying hazardous materials, or a bus carrying 16 or more passengers — you need a commercial driver's license (CDL) instead of a standard license. The requirements are more extensive: you must pass a medical examination, provide additional documentation, and pass separate written and skills tests for the type of vehicle you will drive.

Start by getting a commercial learner's permit (CLP) first. You will need your standard documents plus a medical certificate from a certified examiner. After you have the CLP, you can practice driving with a licensed CDL holder in the vehicle. You must hold the CLP for at least 14 days before you can take the CDL skills test. The entire process typically takes several weeks.

Renewing or replacing your license

If your license is still valid and you have not changed your name, address, or other information, you can renew online or by mail if you are under 79. You will need to pay the renewal fee and may need to provide a new photograph depending on how long it has been since your last one. The DPS website has an online renewal tool that tells you whether you are may be able to access.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must visit a DPS office in person to get a replacement. Bring your identity and residency documents as you would for a new license. You will receive a temporary paper license and a new plastic card will be mailed to you. A replacement costs less than a new license but more than a renewal.

If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring your original or certified name-change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your current license and residency documents. You can update your name in person at a DPS office or by mail if your license is still valid.

Special circumstances and exceptions

If you are a non-citizen, you can get a driver's license if you have a valid visa, work permit, or other immigration document showing you are lawfully present in the United States. Bring your immigration document along with your other required documents. Your license will be valid only as long as your immigration status remains current.

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive safely, you may need to take an additional driving test or provide a medical certificate. The DPS can require this if your process or medical history raises concerns. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can request a written test instead of a verbal one, and you can bring an interpreter.

If you have been convicted of certain traffic offenses or have had your license suspended or revoked, you may need to complete a defensive driving course or pay reinstatement fees before you can get a new license. Check with the DPS about your specific situation before you visit an office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a digital copy of my documents instead of bringing originals?

No. The DPS requires original documents or certified copies for identity and Social Security verification. You can bring digital copies of your residency documents (utility bill, bank statement) if they show your name, address, and current date, but having the original is safer in case the DPS questions the image quality.

What if I was born outside the United States and do not have a passport?

Contact your country's consulate or embassy to request a passport, or visit your county clerk's office to get a certified copy of your birth certificate. You will need one of these documents before the DPS can issue your license. The process can take several weeks, so plan ahead.

Do I have to take the written test if I already have a license from another state?

Yes. Even if you hold a valid license from another state, you must pass the Texas written test to get a Texas license. You do not need to retake the vision screening if you pass it at the DPS office, but the written test is required for all new applicants.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at most DPS offices at no extra charge. You have three attempts per visit. If you fail all three times, you must return on a different day to try again. Many people study the Texas Driver Handbook (available free on the DPS website) before their second attempt.

How long does it take to receive my plastic license card in the mail?

The DPS typically mails your card within two to three weeks of your visit. You will have a valid temporary paper license for 30 days, which is sufficient for driving during this time. If you do not receive your card within four weeks, contact the DPS to check the status.