The Amarillo DPS Office Handles All License Types

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in Amarillo is where you go to get your learner's permit, take your written test, pass your road test, and receive your driver's license. This is the only office in Amarillo that issues licenses — you cannot get one at a county courthouse or a third-party location. Whether you are a teenager getting your first permit or an adult renewing an expired license, you will come here.

The office is located at 4410 Canyon Drive, Amarillo, TX 79110. It serves Randall County and the surrounding area. You can reach them by phone at (806) 356-2500 during business hours to ask about wait times, required documents, or to schedule a road test appointment if your location offers that option.

Texas does not require you to make an appointment for a written test or license renewal, but road tests often have a wait list. Calling ahead to understand current wait times can save you a trip or help you plan when to show up.

Key Takeaways

  • The Amarillo DPS office at 4410 Canyon Drive is the only place in Amarillo where you can take your written test, road test, and receive your license.
  • You do not need an appointment for a written test or renewal, but road test appointments may have a wait and calling ahead is wise.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, proof of identity, and any required parental consent forms before you go.
  • The office is open during standard business hours, but you should call (806) 356-2500 to confirm hours and current wait times before visiting.

What Documents You Need to Bring

The documents required depend on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or taking a test. In all cases, bring your Social Security number (or your Social Security card), a proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or military ID), and proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your name and current Amarillo address dated within 90 days).

If you are under 18 and getting your first license or learner's permit, you must bring a parent or legal guardian with you. They will need to sign consent forms in person. If you are taking your road test, bring the vehicle you will be tested in — it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle's registration and proof of insurance must be current.

If you are renewing a license that has expired, bring your expired license card if you still have it. If your license was suspended or revoked, you will need to resolve that status before the office can issue a new one — call ahead to understand what that process requires.

Hours, Wait Times, and What to Expect

The Amarillo DPS office is typically open Monday through Friday during regular business hours, but hours can vary by season and staffing. The office is usually closed on weekends and state holidays. Before you go, call (806) 356-2500 to confirm the current hours and ask about wait times — this can range from 30 minutes to several hours depending on the day and time.

Mornings, especially early in the week, tend to be less crowded than afternoons and Fridays. If you arrive without an appointment for a written test, you will be given a number and wait your turn. The written test itself takes about 30 to 45 minutes once you are called. Road tests typically take 20 to 30 minutes but may have a longer wait for an available examiner.

Bring something to read or do while you wait. The office does not always have seating for everyone, especially during busy times. If the wait is very long, you can ask staff whether you can return at a less busy time.

Taking Your Written Test at the Amarillo Office

The written test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take it on a computer at the office — the test is multiple choice and you receive your score when ready after finishing. You need to score at least 70 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day; there is no waiting period between attempts in Texas.

The office provides the test in English and Spanish. If you need the test in another language or have a documented disability that requires accommodation, call ahead to arrange that. Bring your documents and be ready to pay the test fee, which varies but is typically under $30.

Once you pass the written test, you will receive a learner's permit if you are a new driver. This permit allows you to drive with a licensed adult in the car while you practice for your road test. You cannot use this permit to drive alone.

Taking Your Road Test at the Amarillo Office

The road test is the final step before you receive your full license. You must have held your learner's permit for a certain amount of time (usually at least 20 days for drivers under 18, or when ready for drivers 18 and older) and passed the written test. The examiner will test your ability to start the vehicle, control it safely, follow traffic laws, and respond to road hazards.

Bring the vehicle you will be tested in, your learner's permit, proof of insurance for that vehicle, and the vehicle's registration. The vehicle must have working brakes, steering, lights, wipers, and mirrors. The examiner will do a brief safety check before the test begins. If anything is broken or unsafe, the test will not proceed.

Road test appointments may have a wait list in Amarillo. Call (806) 356-2500 to ask about scheduling or walk-in availability. If you fail the road test, you can retake it after a waiting period — ask the examiner how long you must wait before your next attempt.

Renewing or Replacing Your License

If your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, you can renew it at the Amarillo office without retaking the written or road test. Bring your expired license, proof of residency, and payment for the renewal fee. Renewals are usually processed the same day.

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at the office. You will need to pay a replacement fee and bring proof of identity and residency. A replacement license is issued the same day. If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew or replace it until you have resolved the suspension or revocation — contact the office to understand what steps are required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my written test without an appointment?

Yes. The Amarillo DPS office does not require appointments for written tests. You can walk in during business hours, check in, and wait your turn. However, wait times vary, so calling ahead to ask about current wait times helps you plan when to arrive.

What if I fail my road test?

You can retake the road test after waiting the required time. Ask the examiner how long you must wait — it is usually a few days to a week. You do not need to retake the written test. Schedule your next road test by calling the office or asking about walk-in availability.

Do I need to bring my vehicle to take the written test?

No. You only need your vehicle when you take the road test. For the written test, bring your documents and be ready to take the test on a computer at the office.

What if I am under 18 and my parent cannot come with me?

A parent or legal guardian must be present in person to sign consent forms for anyone under 18. If your parent cannot come, you will need to reschedule. A notarized consent form does not replace the in-person requirement in Texas.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the road test?

Your license is usually issued the same day you pass the road test. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office, and your plastic card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.