What you need to do to switch to a Texas driver license
If you move to Texas from another state, you must get a Texas driver license within a certain timeframe. Texas law requires you to obtain a Texas license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state. You cannot legally drive on your out-of-state license once you become a Texas resident, even if that license has not expired.
The process involves visiting a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, passing a vision test, and paying a fee. You will surrender your old license and receive a Texas license. The exact steps and documents you need depend on whether you have a valid out-of-state license and what type of license you held.
Key Takeaways
- You must get a Texas driver license within 30 days of moving to Texas, even if your out-of-state license is still valid.
- You will need proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement), proof of identity, and your Social Security number or ITIN to explore.
- Texas DPS offices do not require an appointment for most license changes, but you can reserve a time slot online to reduce wait time.
- The fee for a standard five-year Texas driver license is $45, and the license is valid for five years from the date of issue.
- If your out-of-state license is suspended or revoked, you may face additional requirements or delays in getting a Texas license.
Documents you must bring to the DPS office
Bring your current out-of-state driver license, even if it is expired. You will also need one document that proves your identity, such as a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate. A passport is the fastest option because it serves as both identity and citizenship proof.
You must show proof that you live in Texas. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill dated within the last 60 days works. If you have just moved and do not have a utility bill yet, a signed lease or a letter from your landlord stating your move-in date can work instead. Some DPS offices also accept a bank statement or insurance policy as proof of residency.
Bring your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You do not need to bring a card; you can write the number on the process form. If you do not have either, tell the DPS office staff when you arrive—they can direct you to next steps.
How the vision test and written test work
When you arrive at the DPS office, you will take a vision screening. This is a straightforward test where you read letters on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test. If you fail the vision test, you will not be issued a license that day and will need to see an eye doctor, get a corrective lens prescription, and return to the DPS office.
You will not take a written knowledge test if you are switching from another state and your out-of-state license is valid and not suspended. Texas recognizes valid licenses from other states, so you skip the written exam. However, if your out-of-state license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you will need to pass the Texas written test before you receive your license. The test covers Texas traffic laws and road signs and is offered in multiple languages.
Fees and how long the license lasts
A standard five-year Texas driver license costs $45. If you are over 85 years old, the license is valid for two years instead and costs $25. You pay this fee at the DPS office when you explore. Some offices accept cash, debit, or credit cards; a few accept checks. Ask ahead if you have a payment preference.
Your new Texas license will be valid for five years from the date it is issued. You can renew it by mail, online, or in person before it expires. Renewing by mail or online is cheaper and faster than renewing in person, so keep track of your expiration date.
Finding a DPS office and what to expect on the day
Texas has DPS driver license offices in every county. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Texas DPS website. Many offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have extended evening or Saturday hours. A few offices are open on Sunday.
You can walk in without an appointment, but wait times vary widely depending on the office and time of day. To reduce wait time, you can reserve a time slot online through the Texas DPS website. When you arrive, check in at the front desk, take a number, and wait to be called. The entire process usually takes 15 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the office is and whether you pass the vision test on your first try.
Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost. Arrive early in the day if possible, as offices tend to be less crowded in the morning. Do not bring children unless necessary, as the office can be crowded and the process takes time.
What happens if your out-of-state license is suspended or revoked
If your out-of-state license is suspended or revoked, Texas will not issue you a new license until the suspension or revocation is lifted. When you explore at the DPS office, staff will check your driving record in your home state. If a suspension or revocation shows up, they will tell you that you cannot get a Texas license yet.
You will need to contact the DPS or motor vehicle department in your home state to find out why your license was suspended or revoked and what you must do to restore it. This might mean paying a fine, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a suspension period. Once your home state lifts the suspension or revocation, you can return to the Texas DPS office and explore for your Texas license.
If you owe child support, have unpaid traffic tickets, or have other court-ordered debts, Texas may also refuse to issue you a license. The DPS office will tell you if this is the case and direct you to the right agency to resolve the issue.
Insurance and your new Texas license
Texas requires all drivers to carry auto insurance. If you already have an active insurance policy from your previous state, that policy remains in effect when you move to Texas. However, you should contact your insurance company to update your address and confirm that your policy covers you in Texas. Some out-of-state policies have restrictions or different coverage limits in Texas.
When you get your Texas license, your insurance company will not automatically know about it. Update your policy information with your insurer so your records match your new license. If you do not have insurance when you explore for your Texas license, you are not required to show proof of insurance at the DPS office, but you must have it before you drive on public roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive on my out-of-state license while I wait to get my Texas license?
No. Once you become a Texas resident, you cannot legally drive on your out-of-state license, even if it is still valid. You have 30 days to get a Texas license. Driving without a valid Texas license after that period is a violation and can result in a fine or other penalties.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
If you have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, you can use that. If you have neither, tell the DPS office staff when you arrive. They can explain what documents you may be able to use instead, though the process may take longer.
Do I need to take a driving test to get a Texas license?
No. If your out-of-state license is valid and not suspended, you do not take a driving test or written test. You only take a vision screening. If your out-of-state license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you will take a written test but still no driving test.
How long does it take to get my Texas license after I explore?
You receive your temporary license on the day you explore at the DPS office. Your permanent license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid while you wait for the permanent one to arrive.
What if I move to Texas but keep my out-of-state address on file?
You must update your address to your Texas address within 30 days of moving. If you do not, you are breaking Texas law. The DPS will check your residency documents when you explore, so you cannot hide an out-of-state address. Update your address honestly to avoid legal trouble.