Texas DPS offices statewide went offline due to a system outage, and you cannot visit in person until service is restored
When the Texas Department of Public Safety's computer systems go down, all driver license offices across the state close to the public. You cannot renew your license, get a replacement, or handle most other transactions during an outage. The DPS does not issue a statewide closure notice in advance — outages are discovered when you try to visit or when the agency announces it on their website and social media.
The length of an outage varies. Some last a few hours; others have stretched into days. During that time, the only way to know when offices will reopen is to check the DPS website directly or call the office you planned to visit. No alternative process exists — you must wait for the system to come back online.
Key Takeaways
- All Texas DPS driver license offices close statewide when the computer system fails, and you cannot complete transactions in person until it is restored.
- The DPS announces outages on their official website and social media accounts, not through email or text alerts to the public.
- Outage length is unpredictable and can range from hours to multiple days depending on the cause and complexity of the problem.
- If your license expires during an outage, you may still drive legally while waiting for offices to reopen, but you should check current Texas law on this point.
- Online services like license renewal may also be unavailable during an outage, so check the DPS website before attempting any transaction.
How to learn about an outage is happening right now
The Texas DPS posts outage notices on their official website at dps.texas.gov. Look for a banner or alert at the top of the page, or check the "Driver License" section for service status updates. The DPS also posts outage information on their social media accounts, including Facebook and Twitter.
If you do not see a statewide notice, the outage may be affecting only one office or region. Call the specific office where you planned to go. If the phone line is down or you get a busy signal, the office is likely closed due to the outage. Wait an hour and try again.
Do not rely on third-party websites or social media posts from other users to confirm an outage. Go directly to dps.texas.gov or call your local office to verify the status.
What you cannot do during an outage
During a system outage, the DPS cannot process any transactions that require their computer network. This includes renewing your driver license, replacing a lost or damaged license, changing your address, updating your name, obtaining a duplicate license, or explore for a Real ID. You also cannot take a written or driving test for a new license.
Online renewal through the DPS website is also unavailable during an outage. If you attempt to renew online and the system is down, you will see an error message. Do not try repeatedly — wait until the system is restored.
Some services may work partially. For example, you might be able to view your driving record or check your license status on the DPS website even if the office is closed, depending on which part of the system failed. Check the DPS website to see what is and is not available.
What to do if your license expires during an outage
Texas law allows you to drive with an expired license for a limited time after an outage ends, provided you were unable to renew because of the system failure. However, the exact grace period and conditions depend on current state law and DPS policy, which can change. Before driving with an expired license, contact the DPS directly or check their website to confirm what is allowed.
If you have a critical need — such as a medical appointment or work requirement — and your license expires during the outage, document the outage by saving the DPS website notice or taking a screenshot. Keep this proof in case you are stopped by law enforcement.
The safest approach is to renew your license as soon as the system comes back online. Offices often experience high volume when ready after an outage, so expect longer wait times.
Planning ahead to avoid outage disruptions
Renew your driver license well before it expires. Texas allows you to renew up to two years before your expiration date if you are renewing by mail or online. This buffer means an outage a few weeks before expiration is less likely to catch you off guard.
If you need a Real ID or a replacement license, do not wait until the last minute. Real ID important date are firm, and an outage in the final weeks before a important date can leave you unable to fly or enter federal buildings. Plan to complete Real ID transactions at least two months before you need it.
Check the DPS website before you drive to an office. Even if you have not heard about an outage, a quick visit to dps.texas.gov takes 30 seconds and can save you a wasted trip.
How long outages typically last
There is no standard outage length. Some system problems are resolved in two to four hours. Others require the DPS to restore data from backups or repair hardware, which can take a full day or longer. Outages caused by cyberattacks or major software failures have lasted multiple days in other states' DMV systems.
The DPS does not usually announce an estimated time for reopening. They post updates as they have them, but these updates may be vague — for example, "We are working to restore service" rather than "We expect to reopen at 2 p.m." Check back every few hours if you need a transaction urgently.
What happens to appointments during an outage
If you have a scheduled appointment at a DPS office and a statewide outage occurs, your appointment is cancelled. The DPS does not automatically reschedule you. Once the system is back online, you will need to book a new appointment through the DPS website or by phone.
Offices often fill up quickly after an outage ends because of the backlog of cancelled appointments plus new requests. If you need to reschedule, do so as soon as the system is restored.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online if the DPS system is down?
No. Online renewal uses the same DPS computer system as the offices. If the system is down statewide, the online renewal portal will be unavailable. You will see an error message if you try. Wait until the DPS announces that service is restored before attempting to renew online.
What if I need my license for work and the outage lasts days?
Contact your employer and explain the situation. Provide them with a screenshot or printout of the DPS outage notice from their website. Most employers understand that government system outages are beyond your control. If you have a critical need, call the DPS directly to ask if there are any exceptions or temporary measures available.
Will the DPS send me an email or text when the system is back up?
No. The DPS does not send automatic notifications to the public when an outage ends. You must check the DPS website or call your local office to confirm service is restored. Set a reminder to check back every few hours if you need a transaction urgently.
Can I go to a different DPS office if my local one is closed?
No. During a statewide outage, all DPS driver license offices in Texas are closed. There is no workaround by visiting a different location. You must wait for the statewide system to be restored.
Is there a phone number to call for outage updates?
You can call your local DPS driver license office, but during a major outage the phone lines may be busy or not answered. The most reliable source for outage information is the DPS website at dps.texas.gov. Check there first before calling.