Where the Arlington office is and what it handles

The Arlington Drivers License Office is a Texas Department of Public Safety location where you can handle most of your driver license and ID card needs in person. This office issues new licenses, renews existing ones, handles name or address changes, and administers both the written test and the road test for new drivers. It also issues commercial driver licenses and processes certain vehicle registration matters.

The office serves Arlington residents and people from surrounding areas in Tarrant County. If you live closer to another DPS office, you can visit that location instead — your transaction will be the same regardless of which office you choose.

Key Takeaways

  • The Arlington office handles written tests, road tests, license renewals, and new license issuance, but you must bring the correct documents for your specific transaction.
  • Hours and exact address change occasionally, so check the Texas DPS website or call ahead before making the trip.
  • Road tests book up weeks in advance, so schedule as soon as you are ready rather than waiting until your learner permit is about to expire.
  • Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number for most transactions.

What documents to bring

The documents you need depend on whether you are getting a new license, renewing an existing one, or taking a test. For a new driver license, bring an original or certified birth certificate, a valid passport, or a state ID card — one of these proves your identity and age. You also need proof that you live in Texas: a utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 90 days works. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, and bring your learner permit if you have one.

For a renewal, bring your current driver license and proof of residency if your address has changed. If you are taking the written test, bring your learner permit and the documents listed above for a new license. For a road test, bring your learner permit, proof of insurance for the vehicle you will drive, and the vehicle's registration and title.

Texas DPS publishes a full list of acceptable documents on its website. If you are unsure whether a document will work, call the Arlington office before you go.

Hours, location, and how to reach the office

The Arlington Drivers License Office is located at 2600 East Abram Street, Arlington, TX 76010. Hours typically run Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but the office may close for state holidays or administrative reasons. Before you visit, check the Texas DPS website for current hours or call the office directly at (817) 465-3000 to confirm it is open and to ask about wait times.

The office does not take appointments for most transactions, so you arrive and take a number. Road tests are an exception — you must schedule these in advance through the Texas DPS website or by phone. If you are taking a written test, you can walk in during business hours, but arriving early in the day usually means a shorter wait.

What to expect when you arrive

When you walk in, look for the ticket dispenser near the entrance. Take a number for the service you need — there are usually separate lines for different types of transactions. The digital display will call your number when a clerk is ready. Bring all your documents and have them organized before you reach the window; this speeds up the process and reduces errors.

For a written test, the clerk will verify your documents, collect any fees, and direct you to a testing station. You will sit at a computer and answer multiple-choice questions about Texas traffic laws and safe driving. The test takes about 30 minutes. You find out whether you passed before you leave.

For a road test, you will have already scheduled a time. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring the vehicle you will drive, proof of insurance, and your learner permit. An examiner will check your documents, inspect the vehicle for safety, and then ride with you while you demonstrate basic driving skills. The test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.

Fees and payment methods

Fees vary depending on what you are doing. A new driver license costs less than a renewal; a commercial license costs more than a regular one. The written test and road test each have separate fees. The Texas DPS website lists current fees, or you can call the Arlington office to ask. The office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards.

If you are a Texas resident renewing your license and you meet certain requirements, you may be able to renew by mail or online instead of visiting the office. Check the Texas DPS website to see whether you are may be able to access; this can save you a trip.

Road test scheduling and wait times

Road tests often book up four to eight weeks in advance, depending on the season. If you need a test, schedule it as soon as you are ready — waiting until your learner permit is close to expiring leaves you with few available dates. You can schedule online through the Texas DPS website or by calling the Arlington office.

Written tests usually have shorter waits because you can take one any business day without an appointment. However, the office may have a backlog on certain days, particularly early in the week or early in the month. Calling ahead to ask about current wait times can help you choose the best time to visit.

If you cannot visit in person

Texas allows some transactions by mail or online without visiting an office. License renewals are the most common — if your license is not suspended, you have not changed your name or address, and you meet other requirements, you can renew online or by mail. The Texas DPS website has a tool to check whether you are may be able to access.

Written tests and road tests must be taken in person at an office. If the Arlington location is inconvenient, you can visit any Texas DPS office; the test is the same everywhere. If you are unable to visit during regular business hours, some offices offer extended hours or Saturday appointments — call the Arlington office to ask whether this is available.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a new license after I pass the road test?

You receive a temporary paper license at the office on the day you pass. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within one to two weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving until the permanent one arrives.

Can I take my road test in a borrowed car?

Yes, as long as the car is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have valid registration and proof of insurance in the car. The person who owns the vehicle does not need to be present during the test.

What happens if I fail the written test or road test?

You can retake either test. There is usually a waiting period of a few days before you can test again, and you pay the test fee each time. The clerk at the window will tell you when you can schedule your next attempt.

Do I need an appointment to renew my license at the Arlington office?

No. Most license renewals are walk-in only. However, if you are renewing online or by mail, you do not need to visit the office at all. Check the Texas DPS website to see which method works for your situation.

What if my documents are from another country?

If you are a non-citizen, you will need to bring documents proving your legal presence in the United States, such as a visa, green card, or work authorization. The Texas DPS website lists all acceptable documents. Call the Arlington office if you are unsure whether your documents will work.