The documents Texas requires depend on whether you're renewing in person or by mail

Texas lets you renew by mail if you meet certain conditions, but the documents you bring differ based on your route. If you're renewing in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, you'll need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your current license. If you're renewing by mail, you need fewer documents — mainly your current license and a completed process form. The state does not accept online renewal for standard driver's licenses, though you can check your renewal status online.

Your current Texas driver's license is the foundation for any renewal. If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot renew by mail and must go to a DPS office in person. The same applies if your name has changed since your last license was issued.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person renewal requires your current license, one form of primary ID (passport, birth certificate, or consulate document), one proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number.
  • Mail renewal requires only your current license, a completed DL 43 form, and payment — but only if your license is not expired more than two years and you meet other may be able to access rules.
  • Proof of residency must show your current Texas address and be dated within 90 days of your DPS visit or mail submission.
  • If your name has changed, you must renew in person and bring a certified document proving the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
  • You can check whether you're may be able to access for mail renewal on the Texas DPS website before gathering documents.

Documents for in-person renewal at a DPS office

Bring your current Texas driver's license to any DPS office. This is your primary document and proves you already hold a valid license. If your license is expired, bring it anyway — an expired license still counts as proof of prior licensure.

You also need one form of primary identification. Texas accepts a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a consulate identification card, a military ID, or a tribal ID card. The document must be original or certified; photocopies do not count. If you use a birth certificate, it must be certified by the vital records office that issued it, not a hospital copy.

Bring one document showing your current Texas address. This is your proof of residency. Texas accepts a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or phone), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, an insurance policy, or a government check. The document must show your name and current address and be dated within 90 days of your visit. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill, plus that person's ID.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number. You can do this verbally at the office; you do not need to bring a card or document.

Documents for mail renewal

Mail renewal is only available if your license is not expired more than two years, you have no medical conditions that require an in-person exam, your name has not changed, and you have no outstanding warrants or suspensions. You can check your may be able to access on the Texas DPS website.

Complete the DL 43 form, which is the process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card. You can read it from the DPS website or request it by mail. Sign the form in blue or black ink; do not use pencil. Include your current license with your process — do not send it separately.

Include payment for your renewal fee. Texas accepts check, money order, or credit card. Do not send cash. Mail your completed form, signed license, and payment to the address listed on the DL 43 form. Processing takes about two to three weeks after DPS receives your envelope.

Name changes and additional documents

If your name has changed since your last license was issued, you must renew in person. Bring your current license, primary ID, proof of residency, and a certified document proving the name change. Texas accepts a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption decree. The document must be certified by the court or vital records office that issued it.

If you are a naturalized U.S. citizen and your current license shows a different name than your naturalization papers, bring both documents to the DPS office. The staff will verify the name on file and update your record.

What happens if documents are missing or incorrect

If you arrive at a DPS office without all required documents, staff will tell you what is missing and you will not be able to renew that day. You can return once you have gathered everything. If you mail an incomplete process, DPS will return it to you without processing your renewal.

If a document is expired, it usually still counts — for example, an expired passport is still valid ID. The exception is proof of residency, which must be dated within 90 days. If your utility bill or lease is older than 90 days, bring a newer one or a different document that meets the date requirement.

If you bring a document in a language other than English, bring an official English translation along with the original. The translation must be certified by a translator or the issuing agency.

Renewing after your license has expired more than two years

If your Texas license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew by mail and cannot use the standard renewal process. You must explore for a new license as if you were a first-time driver. This means you will need to pass a written test and a road test, in addition to providing all the documents listed above. You can schedule your tests at any DPS office.

If your license expired between one and two years ago, you can still renew by mail if you meet the other may be able to access requirements. Check the Texas DPS website or call your local DPS office to confirm your status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I don't have a birth certificate?

Yes. A birth certificate is one option for primary ID, but you can use a U.S. passport, military ID, tribal ID, or consulate ID instead. You only need one form of primary identification.

What if my address on my current license is different from my current address?

Bring proof of residency showing your new address. The DPS will update your address during renewal. Your proof of residency must be dated within 90 days and show your current name and address.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. You will provide your Social Security number verbally at the DPS office or write it on your mail renewal form. You do not need to bring a card or any document showing your number.

Can someone else mail in my renewal for me?

Yes, but you must sign the DL 43 form yourself. Someone else can place it in the envelope and mail it, but your signature on the process is required. You cannot authorize someone to sign on your behalf.

What if I lost my current license and need to renew?

You must renew in person at a DPS office. Bring your primary ID and proof of residency. You will also need to report the lost license, and DPS will issue a replacement during the same visit.