What you need to bring and where to go

To get a Texas driver's license, you visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. You cannot do this online or by mail. The DPS website lists every office location and their hours; many are open Monday through Friday, and some offer Saturday hours. Bring originals or certified copies—photocopies are not accepted.

The three documents you need are: one form of primary ID (a passport, certified birth certificate, or consulate ID card), one piece of proof that you live in Texas (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you do not have a Social Security card, you can bring a W-2, tax return, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or travel document as well.

You will also fill out Form DL-44 (process for Texas Driver's License) at the office or read it beforehand from the DPS website to save time. Bring it completed but unsigned—you sign it in front of the examiner.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with original documents proving your identity, Texas residency, and Social Security number.
  • The entire process—document review, written test, vision test, and photo—usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is.
  • You pay a fee at the time of process; the amount depends on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid (four, six, or eight years).
  • If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at most offices, but you will pay the fee again.
  • Your temporary paper license is valid when ready; your plastic card arrives by mail within two to three weeks.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. The test covers things like speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, how to handle a skid, and when you must yield to pedestrians or cyclists.

You can study using the Texas Driver's Handbook, which is free on the DPS website. Many people also use practice tests online—search "Texas driver's license practice test" to find free versions. The handbook and practice tests use the same language and format as the real test, so studying them directly prepares you. You take the test on a computer at the DPS office, and you get your score when ready.

Vision and road tests

After you pass the written test, you take a vision screening at the office. The examiner checks whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you cannot get your license that day, but you can return after you see an eye doctor and get a corrective lens prescription.

Texas does not require a road test for a standard driver's license. You do not have to drive with an examiner. However, if you are under 18, you must complete a driver education course before you can get your license, and you must hold a learner's permit for at least six months and practice with a licensed adult driver.

Fees and how long your license lasts

The fee for a Texas driver's license varies by the length of validity you choose. A four-year license costs less than a six-year or eight-year license. You choose the length when you explore. The DPS website lists the exact current fees. You pay by cash, check, or card at the office—payment methods vary by location, so call ahead if you want to confirm.

Your temporary paper license is valid when ready and works for driving, traffic stops, and identification until your plastic card arrives. The plastic card is mailed to the address you provide and usually arrives within two to three weeks. If it does not arrive within a month, contact the DPS to request a replacement.

If you are renewing or replacing an existing license

If you already have a Texas driver's license and it is still valid, you can renew it online through the DPS website without visiting an office—but only if your license is not expired, you have not had any address changes, and you do not need to update your photo. If any of those conditions do not explore, you must renew in person at a DPS office using the same documents listed above.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you explore for a replacement using the same process as a new license. Bring your documents and Form DL-44. You will pay a replacement fee, which is usually lower than the fee for a new license.

Special situations: Minors, name changes, and non-citizens

If you are under 18, you must first get a learner's permit by passing the written test and vision test. You then hold the permit for at least six months while you practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old. After six months, you return to the DPS office to take the road test and get your full license. Your parent or guardian must be present when you explore for the learner's permit.

If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are not a U.S. citizen, you can still get a driver's license if you have a valid visa, passport, or travel document. Bring your passport or travel document along with the other required documents.

What to do if you fail or have problems at the office

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at most DPS offices. You will pay the test fee again. If you fail the vision test, you cannot take it again that day. You must see an eye doctor, get a corrective lens prescription if needed, and return to the DPS office with proof of your eye exam.

If you have questions about which documents you need or whether your documents are acceptable, call the DPS ahead of time. The DPS phone line can tell you whether your specific situation requires anything beyond the standard documents. If you are turned away because a document is not acceptable, ask the examiner what document would work instead so you do not make a second trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. You must provide your Social Security number or a document showing it. If you do not have a Social Security card, bring a W-2, tax return, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. If you are not may be able to access for a Social Security number, you cannot get a standard Texas driver's license, but you may be able to get an ID card instead through the DPS.

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

Usually two to three weeks. Your temporary paper license is valid for driving and identification when ready, so you do not have to wait for the plastic card. If your card does not arrive within a month, contact the DPS to request a replacement.

What if I moved to Texas from another state and still have an out-of-state license?

You must get a Texas license within 60 days of moving to Texas. Bring your out-of-state license along with your proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. You will take the written test and vision test. Your out-of-state license does not count as proof of identity for the Texas process.

Do I have to take the written test again if I already passed it in another state?

Yes. You must pass the Texas written test to get a Texas license, even if you have a valid license from another state. The test covers Texas-specific traffic laws and road signs.

What happens if I fail the vision test?

You cannot get your license that day. You must see an eye doctor and get a corrective lens prescription if you need one. Return to the DPS office with proof of your eye exam, and you can take the vision test again. Bring your glasses or contacts if you use them.