Documents and information you'll bring to the DPS office

To renew your Texas driver's license, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Texas requires at least one document from the "primary" category — a U.S. passport, passport card, or certified birth certificate — plus one document showing your current address. You'll also need your current Texas driver's license or ID card.

If you don't have a primary document, you can use two documents from the "secondary" category instead. Secondary documents include a Texas voter registration card, utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement. The utility bill or lease must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 90 days.

Bring your documents in person to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You cannot renew by mail unless you meet specific conditions — you're over 79 years old, have a medical condition that prevents you from visiting an office, or are on active military duty outside Texas.

Key Takeaways

  • You need one primary document (passport, passport card, or birth certificate) plus one document showing your current Texas address, or two secondary documents if you lack a primary one.
  • Your Social Security number is required; bring it written down or memorized, as you'll enter it at the DPS office.
  • You must visit a DPS office in person unless you are over 79, have a medical condition preventing travel, or are on active military duty outside Texas.
  • Renewal fees vary by license type and validity period; standard renewals cost less than first-time licenses.
  • Processing times are faster if you renew before your license expires, though Texas allows renewal up to two years after expiration.

Proof of identity documents that work

Texas recognizes a short list of primary identity documents. A U.S. passport or passport card is the easiest — either one proves citizenship and identity in a single document. A certified birth certificate (not a hospital copy) also works as a primary document. If you were born outside the U.S., a Certificate of Naturalization or Permanent Resident Card (green card) counts as primary identity.

If you don't have any of those, you can use two secondary documents instead. Secondary identity documents include a Texas ID card, military ID, tribal ID, or an out-of-state driver's license. You can also use a school or work ID if it has your photo and signature, or a marriage certificate or divorce decree if you're changing your name.

The DPS office will make a copy of your identity document, so bring the original. If your document is expired, it still counts — an expired passport or out-of-state license is still valid proof of who you are.

Proof of residency and address documents

You need one document showing your current Texas address. A utility bill in your name — electric, gas, water, or internet — works if it's dated within the last 90 days. A lease agreement or rental agreement with your name and address also works if it's current. Bank statements, mortgage statements, and property tax statements all count if they show your name and address.

If you've recently moved and don't have a document in your new name yet, bring a utility bill or lease in your new address plus a document showing your old address and a recent move — a forwarding address notice from the post office, a utility disconnect notice, or a lease end date works. The DPS office staff can help you figure out what combination will work if you're in transition.

Documents must be originals or certified copies. A photo of a bill on your phone won't work — bring the paper or a printed copy.

Fees and what they cover

A standard five-year driver's license renewal costs $25. An eight-year renewal costs $40. Texas also offers a ten-year license for $60, though this is less common for renewals. If you're over 85, your renewal is free.

These fees cover the license itself and processing. If you need a duplicate license (because yours was lost or stolen), that's an additional $11. If you're changing your name or address, there's no extra charge — the renewal fee covers the update.

Payment is cash, check, or card at the DPS office. Some offices accept online payment before you arrive, which can speed up your visit. Check your local DPS office website to see if that option is available.

How long renewal takes and when to start

If you renew before your license expires, the DPS typically issues your new license within two weeks. If you renew after expiration, processing can take longer — up to four weeks in busy periods. You can renew up to two years after your license expires, but waiting that long means a longer processing time and a lapsed license if you need to drive.

Start the renewal process at least six weeks before your expiration date if you need the license quickly. Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license. The DPS sends renewal reminders by mail about 60 days before expiration, but don't rely on that notice — check your license directly.

While your renewal is being processed, you can drive on your expired license if you bring your DPS receipt showing you've applied. Some officers will accept it; others won't. To avoid any risk, renew before expiration.

Renewing by mail or online if you can't visit an office

Texas allows mail renewal only if you meet one of three conditions: you're 79 or older, you have a medical condition that prevents you from visiting an office, or you're on active military duty stationed outside Texas. If you may have access to, you can request a mail renewal process from the DPS website or by calling 1-888-589-6789.

Mail renewal takes longer than in-person renewal — typically four to six weeks from the time the DPS receives your process. You'll mail in your documents, a completed process form, and payment. The DPS will verify your documents and mail your new license to you.

Texas does not offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You must either visit an office in person or use mail renewal if you meet the age or military requirement.

Name or address changes during renewal

If you're changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DPS will update your license at renewal without an extra fee. You don't need to renew early; you can make the change when your regular renewal is due.

If you've moved to a new address in Texas, bring a document showing the new address (as described in the residency section above). The DPS will update your address on your new license. If you've moved out of state, you'll need to get a driver's license in your new state instead of renewing in Texas.

If you're changing your name and address at the same time, bring documents for both. The DPS office can process both changes in a single visit.

What to expect at the DPS office

Arrive with all your documents and be ready to wait. DPS offices are often busy, especially near the end of the month or before holidays. Some offices use online appointment systems — check your local office's website to see if you can book a time slot, which can cut your wait time significantly.

At the counter, a DPS employee will check your documents, verify your information, and take a new photo. You'll be asked to sign a form confirming your address and other details. The employee will collect your fee and give you a receipt. Your new license will be mailed to the address on your process within two weeks if you renew before expiration.

Bring your current license with you. The DPS will take it and destroy it when they issue your new one. If you need your old license for any reason, ask the employee before they take it — they may be able to keep it for you in some cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas license if it's been expired for more than two years?

No. Texas allows renewal up to two years after expiration. If your license has been expired longer than that, you'll need to explore for a new license instead, which requires taking a written test and a driving test. Contact your local DPS office to start the new process process.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You can request an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS, or you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you're not may be able to access for a number. Bring that letter to the DPS office along with your other documents.

Do I need to take a new photo and vision test when I renew?

Yes, the DPS will take a new photo at renewal. You'll also take a vision test at the office — it's quick and part of the standard renewal process. If you fail the vision test, the DPS may restrict your license or require you to see an eye doctor.

What happens if I lose my documents before my appointment?

Contact the issuing agency to get a replacement. For a birth certificate, contact the Texas Vital Statistics office. For a passport, contact the U.S. State Department. For a utility bill, call your utility company and ask for a duplicate. You can still renew once you have the replacement documents.

Can someone else pick up my renewed license for me?

No. Your renewed license will be mailed to the address you provide at the DPS office. You cannot have someone else pick it up in person. If you need it mailed to a different address, tell the DPS employee before you leave the office.