Texas driver's license fees depend on the type of license and how long you want it to last

A standard five-year Texas driver's license costs $25. If you want an eight-year license instead, you'll pay $40. The difference is straightforward how long the license remains valid before you renew it — the eight-year option costs more upfront but spreads the cost over a longer period.

These are the base fees the Texas Department of Public Safety charges. You may also pay additional fees depending on your situation: if you need a replacement because yours was lost or stolen, if you're upgrading from a learner's permit, or if you're explore for a Real ID-compliant license (which has extra security features and costs $3 more than the standard license).

Payment happens when you visit a Texas DPS office to complete your process and road test. You can pay by cash, check, or debit card at most locations, though some offices also accept credit cards — call ahead to confirm what your local office takes.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard five-year Texas driver's license costs $25; an eight-year license costs $40.
  • A Real ID-compliant license adds $3 to either option and allows you to use your license for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight.
  • Replacement licenses (for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses) cost $11 if you keep the same number, or $25 if you need a new number.
  • You pay the fee in person at a Texas DPS office when you pass your road test and receive your license.
  • Fees may vary slightly if you're upgrading from a learner's permit or explore for a commercial driver's license.

Real ID versus standard license: what the extra $3 covers

A Real ID license meets federal security standards set by the Department of Homeland Security. It has a gold star in the upper right corner and can be used to board domestic flights, enter military bases, and access certain federal buildings. A standard Texas license cannot be used for these purposes as of May 2025.

If you plan to fly within the United States or need to enter a federal facility, a Real ID is worth the extra cost. The process process is the same as a standard license — you'll just pay $28 for a five-year Real ID or $43 for an eight-year Real ID instead of the standard $25 or $40. You'll need to bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate and proof of your Social Security number, in addition to the documents required for any Texas driver's license.

Replacement and duplicate license fees

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement costs $11 if you keep your current license number. You can request a replacement in person at a DPS office or by mail through the Texas DPS website.

If you need a new license number (for example, if you've had identity theft or want to change your name), the cost is $25 — the same as a new five-year license. This is treated as a new process rather than a replacement, so you'll need to pass the vision and written tests again, though you may not need to take the road test depending on your situation.

A duplicate license — an extra copy of your current valid license with the same number — costs $11 and takes about two weeks to arrive by mail. This is useful if you want a backup but don't need to change anything about your license.

Upgrading from a learner's permit to a full license

When you pass your road test and convert your learner's permit to a driver's license, you pay the full license fee ($25 for five years or $40 for eight years). You do not pay an additional upgrade fee — the learner's permit fee is separate and does not count toward the license cost.

A Texas learner's permit costs $16 and is valid for two years. When you're ready to get your full license, you'll pay the license fee at the DPS office where you take your road test. Bring your permit, proof of identity, and proof of residency.

Commercial driver's license costs

A commercial driver's license (CDL) costs more than a standard license because it requires additional testing and background checks. A five-year CDL costs $100; an eight-year CDL costs $155. These fees cover the written and skills tests specific to commercial driving.

You must also pass a medical examination and provide a medical certificate before you can get a CDL. The medical exam is not included in the DPS fee and must be done by a certified medical examiner — costs vary but typically range from $75 to $150. Some employers cover this cost for their drivers.

Payment methods and where to pay

You pay your license fee in person at a Texas DPS office when you complete your process and pass your road test. Most offices accept cash and debit cards; many also accept checks and credit cards, but this varies by location. Call your local DPS office before your appointment to confirm what payment methods they accept.

You cannot pay online or by mail for a new license — payment must happen at the office. However, if you're ordering a duplicate or replacement by mail, you can pay by check or money order.

Texas DPS offices are located throughout the state. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Texas DPS website. Some offices require appointments; others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early or scheduling ahead can reduce your wait time.

What happens if you can't pay the full fee at your appointment

Texas DPS does not offer payment plans for driver's license fees. You must pay the full amount at the time of your appointment. If you cannot pay on the day of your road test, you'll need to reschedule your appointment for a time when you can pay.

Some DPS offices may allow you to pay by check if you don't have cash or a debit card available. Call ahead to ask what options your local office offers. If cost is a barrier, look into whether you may have access to for a fee waiver through your county — a small number of Texas counties offer reduced or waived fees for people with financial hardship, though this is not a statewide program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay the full license fee if I fail my road test?

No. You only pay the license fee when you pass your road test and receive your license. If you fail, you can reschedule and take the test again at no additional cost. You'll pay the license fee only when you pass.

Can I choose the five-year or eight-year license after I've already started my process?

Yes. When you arrive at the DPS office for your road test, you can tell the examiner which option you prefer. There's no penalty for choosing either one — you just pay the corresponding fee when you pass.

Is there a fee to renew my license before it expires?

No. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires at no extra cost. You'll pay the standard renewal fee ($25 or $40 depending on whether you choose five or eight years) when you renew, just as you did when you first got your license.

What if I move to Texas from another state — do I have to pay the full license fee?

Yes. When you convert an out-of-state license to a Texas license, you pay the full fee for a new Texas license ($25 for five years or $40 for eight years). You do not get a credit for your previous license.

Are there any discounts for military members or seniors?

Texas does not offer reduced license fees for military members or seniors. Everyone pays the same standard fee regardless of age or military status. However, some counties may have local programs — contact your county clerk's office to ask.