Renewing Your Garland Driver's License: Where to Start
Garland residents renew their driver's licenses through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), not through a city office. You can renew in person at a DPS Driver License office in Garland, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Texas DPS website for standard renewals. The method you choose depends on whether your license is expired, how long it has been expired, and whether you need to update your address or other information.
Texas driver's licenses are valid for eight years. You can begin the renewal process up to one year before your license expires, which gives you flexibility in timing. If your license is already expired, you can still renew it, but the process may take longer and you cannot legally drive until the new license arrives.
Key Takeaways
- Texas DPS handles all driver's license renewals for Garland residents; the city does not issue or renew licenses.
- You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office, depending on your license status and whether you need to update personal information.
- Standard renewal fees are $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license; fees vary slightly if you need a duplicate or replacement.
- In-person renewal at a Garland DPS office typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, while mail renewal takes two to three weeks and online renewal is when ready.
- You must bring specific documents to prove identity, residency, and Social Security number, whether you renew in person or by mail.
Online Renewal Through the Texas DPS Website
Online renewal is the fastest option if your license is not expired and you do not need to change your address, name, or other personal details. You can renew online at the official Texas DPS website (dps.texas.gov). The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and your new license is mailed to your current address within 7 to 10 business days.
To renew online, you will need your current driver's license number, your date of birth, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). You will also answer security questions based on your driving history and personal records. If the system cannot verify your information, it will direct you to renew in person or by mail instead.
Online renewal costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. This option is not available if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you have certain medical conditions on file, or if you need to update your address or photograph.
In-Person Renewal at a Garland DPS Office
Garland has one full-service DPS Driver License office located at 1901 West Avenue J. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can also schedule an appointment online through the Texas DPS website to reduce wait time. Appointments are typically available within one to two weeks, and walk-in wait times vary by time of day and day of week—early mornings and weekday afternoons usually have shorter lines.
Bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. You will also take a new photograph at the office.
In-person renewal takes 15 to 30 minutes from check-in to completion. The fee is $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license, payable by cash, debit card, or credit card. Your new license is mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can drive on your old license until the new one arrives.
Mail Renewal for may be able to access Drivers
Mail renewal is available if your license is not expired and you do not need to change your photograph, address, or personal information. You must also have held your current license for at least one year. To renew by mail, read the DL-44 form from the Texas DPS website, complete it, and mail it with your current driver's license and payment to the address listed on the form.
Include a check or money order for $16 (four-year license) or $32 (eight-year license) made payable to the Texas Department of Public Safety. Do not send cash. Mail your packet to the DPS address shown on the form—do not mail it to the Garland office. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date DPS receives your packet.
Mail renewal is slower than online or in-person renewal, and if DPS finds any issue with your process, they will send a notice asking you to visit an office in person. For this reason, many drivers choose in-person renewal to avoid delays.
What Documents You Need for Any Renewal Method
Whether you renew online, by mail, or in person, you must prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. The specific documents accepted vary slightly by method, but the core requirements are the same.
| Document Type | Accepted Examples |
|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Current driver's license, passport, military ID, or state ID card |
| Proof of Residency | Utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax statement dated within the last 60 days; must show your name and current address |
| Social Security Verification | Social Security card, W-2 form, 1099 form, or tax return showing your full SSN |
| Name Change (if applicable) | Certified copy of marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order |
If you are renewing online, you will not physically submit documents, but DPS will verify your information against state records. If you are renewing by mail or in person, bring originals or certified copies—photocopies are not accepted for residency or name change documents.
Renewal Fees and Payment Methods
Standard renewal fees in Texas are $16 for a four-year license and $32 for an eight-year license. These are the only two options for a standard renewal. If you need a duplicate license (because yours was lost or stolen), the fee is $11. If you are renewing and also changing your address or photograph, you pay the standard renewal fee with no additional charge.
Payment methods depend on your renewal method. Online renewal accepts debit and credit cards only. In-person renewal accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Mail renewal requires a check or money order—do not send cash through the mail. No personal checks are accepted; use a cashier's check or money order.
Fees are set by the State of Texas and do not vary by location or DPS office. Garland does not charge any additional local fee for renewal.
If Your License Is Expired or Suspended
If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it—you must explore for a new license instead. This requires an in-person visit to a DPS office, a written test, and a driving test. Contact the Garland DPS office for details on the new license process.
If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. You must resolve the underlying issue (unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, medical disqualification, or other reason) with DPS or the relevant agency before you can renew. Contact DPS at 1-888-589-6556 to check your license status and find out what steps are required.
If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you can still renew using any of the three methods described above. There is no penalty fee for a recently expired license, but you cannot legally drive until your new license arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive while my renewal is being processed?
Yes, if you renew before your license expires. You can drive on your current license until your new one arrives. If your license is already expired when you renew, you cannot legally drive until the new license is delivered to you.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
Online and in-person renewals are mailed within 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewals take two to three weeks from the date DPS receives your packet. Delivery time depends on the postal service and typically adds another 3 to 5 business days.
What if I need to change my address when I renew?
You can change your address at any renewal method. Online renewal allows you to update your address during the process. In-person renewal includes an address update at the office. Mail renewal requires you to write your new address on the DL-44 form. There is no additional fee for an address change during renewal.
Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or fine?
An outstanding ticket does not prevent renewal. However, if you have unpaid fines or a suspension related to traffic violations, your license may be suspended, and you cannot renew until the suspension is lifted. Contact DPS to check your status.
Where is the Garland DPS Driver License office located?
The office is at 1901 West Avenue J, Garland, TX 75040. Hours and appointment availability are listed on the Texas DPS website. You can also call ahead to confirm hours before visiting.