What you need to bring to the Texas DMV for a driver license

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) requires you to bring specific documents in person to get a driver license. You cannot complete this entirely by mail or online — you must visit a DPS office and pass a written test and vision screening.

Bring one document that proves your identity (such as a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate), one document that proves your Texas residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number or a document showing it. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person.

If you are renewing a license that has not expired more than two years ago, you may be able to renew by mail or online instead of visiting an office. Check the Texas DPS website to see if your situation qualifies for remote renewal.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Texas DPS office in person to get a new driver license; bring proof of identity, proof of residency dated within 90 days, and your Social Security number.
  • You will take a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a driving test at the DPS office before your license is issued.
  • A standard Texas driver license is valid for six years if you are 18 or older, and five years if you are under 18.
  • Texas offers a Real ID compliant driver license that works for federal purposes like boarding domestic flights; it costs the same but requires additional identity documents.
  • Wait times at DPS offices vary by location and time of day; visiting early in the week or early in the morning usually means shorter lines.

The three tests you must pass at the DPS office

Before you receive your license, you will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, a vision screening, and a practical driving test. The written test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the DPS website.

The vision screening checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you will not be able to test that day and will need to return after correcting your vision.

The driving test takes about 20 to 30 minutes. A DPS examiner will ride with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you bring) and evaluate your ability to handle basic driving tasks like parking, turning, and stopping. You must have a valid permit or license to take this test.

How long a Texas driver license lasts and when to renew

A standard Texas driver license is valid for six years if you are 18 or older. If you are under 18, your license is valid for five years. Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license.

You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. If your license has been expired for two years or less, you may be able to renew by mail or online without taking the tests again. If it has been expired for more than two years, you will need to return to a DPS office and retake the written and driving tests.

If you change your address, you must update your license within 30 days. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office, depending on what information is changing.

Real ID versus standard driver license in Texas

Texas offers two types of driver licenses: a standard license and a Real ID compliant license. The Real ID license meets federal security standards and can be used to board domestic flights, enter military bases, and access certain federal buildings. A standard license cannot be used for these purposes as of May 7, 2025.

Both licenses cost the same and last the same length of time. The difference is in what documents you must bring. For a Real ID license, you need to bring additional proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form) and proof of your legal name change if applicable. The process takes the same amount of time at the DPS office.

If you already have a standard license and want to upgrade to Real ID, you can do so during your next renewal or by visiting a DPS office before your current license expires. You will need to bring the same documents as you would for a new Real ID license.

What happens after you pass your tests

Once you pass all three tests, the DPS office will issue your license on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office. Your temporary paper license is valid when ready for driving. Your permanent plastic card will arrive in the mail within one to two weeks.

If you fail any test, you can retake it. There is usually a waiting period of one to seven days between attempts, depending on which test you failed. You will pay a retest fee each time you take a test again.

Keep your temporary paper license with you while you wait for your permanent card. Once your permanent card arrives, the paper license is no longer valid.

Finding a DPS office and what to expect on your visit

Texas has DPS offices in most cities and towns. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Texas DPS website. Some offices take appointments, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Calling ahead or checking online before you go can save you time.

Bring all required documents, your Social Security number, and any fees in cash or card (policies vary by office). Wear clothes that allow you to move freely for the driving test. Plan to spend one to three hours at the office, depending on how busy it is and whether you pass all tests on your first try.

Wait times are usually shortest early in the morning, early in the week, and during off-peak hours. Avoid lunch time and late afternoon if possible. If an office is very busy, you may be asked to come back another day.

Fees for a Texas driver license

The cost of a Texas driver license depends on how long it is valid and whether you choose Real ID. A standard six-year license for someone 18 or older costs $33. A five-year license for someone under 18 costs $16. A Real ID license costs the same as a standard license.

If you fail a test and need to retake it, you will pay a retest fee of $7 per test. If you need to replace a lost or damaged license, the replacement fee is $11.

Payment methods vary by office. Most accept cash and debit or credit cards, but some may accept only cash. Call your local DPS office to confirm what payment methods they take.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Texas requires a Social Security number or a document showing it to issue a driver license. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before you can get a license.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test after a waiting period, which varies by office but is usually one to seven days. You will pay a $7 retest fee each time you take it again. You can study the Texas Driver Handbook to prepare for your next attempt.

Do I need a permit before I can take the driving test?

Yes. In Texas, you must have a valid learner permit or an existing driver license to take the driving test. If you do not have a permit, you will need to get one first by passing the written test at a DPS office.

How do I renew my license if I live out of state?

If you no longer live in Texas, you cannot renew your Texas license. You will need to get a driver license from your new state. Your Texas license will remain valid until it expires, but you should not use it as your primary license once you move.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring a document that proves your legal name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will need to visit a DPS office in person to update your license with your new name.