Where to go for a Texas driver license in Laredo

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in Laredo is located at 3002 Santa Ursula Avenue, Laredo, TX 78040. This is the only full-service DPS driver license office in Laredo, and it handles all license types — standard Class C licenses, commercial licenses (CDL), motorcycle endorsements, and renewals.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and closed on state holidays. You cannot walk in without an appointment. You must schedule your visit online through the Texas DPS website or by calling the Laredo office directly at (956) 723-5000. Wait times for appointments vary by season; scheduling several weeks ahead is common during summer and around renewal important date.

If you cannot reach the Laredo office by phone, you can also use the DPS online appointment system at dps.texas.gov. The system shows available slots and lets you book directly. Bring your confirmation number when you arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • The Laredo DPS office is at 3002 Santa Ursula Avenue and requires an appointment — you cannot walk in without one.
  • You must schedule online or by phone at (956) 723-5000; the office is open weekdays 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of lawful presence to your appointment.
  • A standard Class C license costs $33 and is valid for eight years; a Real ID-compliant license costs $33 and is required for federal building access after May 2025.
  • Processing takes about 15 minutes at the office, but your physical license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

Documents you need to bring to the Laredo office

Texas requires four categories of documents before you can receive a driver license. You must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work.

Proof of identity: A U.S. passport, passport card, certified birth certificate, or military ID. If you use a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy with the raised seal, not a photocopy from the hospital. An expired driver license from another state also counts.

Proof of Social Security number: Your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full Social Security number. A tax return also works. You cannot use a letter from the Social Security Administration alone.

Proof of Texas residency: A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and current Laredo address. A bank statement, insurance bill, or government mail also counts. If you moved recently and have not received a bill yet, ask the DPS office what alternatives they accept — some accept a signed affidavit from a resident who can vouch for you.

Proof of lawful presence: A U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, military ID, or permanent resident card (green card). If you are not a U.S. citizen, you will need a visa or other federal immigration document. Bring the original; the DPS office will copy it.

Real ID versus standard license in Texas

Texas offers two types of driver licenses: a standard Class C license and a Real ID-compliant license. Both cost $33 and are valid for eight years. The difference is what you can use them for.

A standard license works for driving and most everyday purposes. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. Starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID license, a passport, a military ID, or another federal ID to enter a federal building, board a domestic flight, or access a military base. If you do not have one of these by that date, you cannot fly domestically or enter federal offices.

To get a Real ID license in Laredo, bring the same four document categories as you would for a standard license, plus one additional document that proves your Social Security number and identity together — such as a W-2, 1099, or tax return. The DPS office will verify your documents against federal databases before issuing the license. Processing takes the same amount of time as a standard license.

If you already have a standard license and want to upgrade to Real ID, you do not have to wait for renewal. You can visit the Laredo office, bring your documents, and exchange it. The fee is the same $33.

What happens after you visit the Laredo office

Once the DPS office approves your process, you will receive a temporary paper license that is valid for 45 days. Your physical plastic license is printed in Austin and mailed to the address you provided. Delivery usually takes 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during high-volume periods.

You can drive on the temporary paper license while you wait for the plastic one to arrive. Keep it with you at all times. If you are stopped by police, show both the paper license and your appointment confirmation or receipt.

If your plastic license does not arrive within 15 business days, contact the Laredo DPS office. They can check the status and reissue if needed. Do not assume it is lost — mail delays happen, especially in summer.

Fees and payment methods at the Laredo office

A standard eight-year Class C driver license costs $33. A Real ID license also costs $33. Both are paid at the time of your appointment. The Laredo office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. They do not accept checks or payment plans.

If you are renewing a license that expired more than two years ago, you may have to retake the written test and vision test, which does not add to the fee. If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, the fee is the same $33.

Commercial licenses (CDL) cost more and require additional testing. A five-year CDL is $100. A motorcycle endorsement adds $20 to any license type. Ask about the specific fee when you schedule your appointment if you need something other than a standard Class C license.

Vision and written tests at the Laredo office

If you are getting your first Texas license or your previous license has been expired for more than two years, you must pass a vision test and a written knowledge test at the Laredo office.

The vision test checks that you can see 20/40 or better with or without glasses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. The test takes about two minutes.

The written test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You can take it in English or Spanish. The test is on a computer at the office, and you get your results when ready. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at no extra charge, though you may need to schedule another appointment slot.

The DPS website has a free practice test you can take before your appointment. Using it can help you feel more confident on test day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas license by mail or online instead of going to Laredo?

You can renew online or by mail if your license is not expired and you have not had any address changes or name changes. Visit the Texas DPS website to check. If you need to renew in person, you must visit the Laredo office.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can still get a Texas driver license. Bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, along with your other documents. The Laredo office will note this on your file. You will still need proof of identity and residency.

How long does the whole process take from appointment to getting my license?

Your appointment at the office takes about 15 minutes. Your temporary paper license is issued when ready. Your plastic license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Total time from scheduling to holding your plastic license is usually 2 to 4 weeks, depending on appointment availability and mail delivery.

What if my address changes after I get my license?

You can update your address online through the Texas DPS website without visiting the office. You do not need a new license unless you want one. The address change is free and takes a few minutes.

Do I need an appointment if I am just renewing a license that is not expired?

If your license is not expired and you have no address or name changes, you can renew online or by mail without an appointment. If you must visit the office, you still need an appointment.