Texas requires you to record a short video of yourself as part of the license process process
When you explore for a Texas driver license, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) asks you to submit a video of yourself. This video is not optional — it is a required part of the process, and you cannot complete your license without it. The video serves as an identity verification step and helps prevent fraud.
You record the video yourself using your phone or computer, then upload it through the DPS online portal or at a DPS office. The whole process takes a few minutes, and the requirements are straightforward once you know what DPS is looking for.
Key Takeaways
- Texas requires a video of your face and upper body as part of the driver license process; you record it yourself and upload it online or bring it to a DPS office.
- The video must show you speaking clearly, looking directly at the camera, and stating your full name and date of birth in a quiet location with good lighting.
- You need a phone or computer with a camera and internet access to record and upload the video; DPS accepts most common video formats.
- If your video is rejected, DPS will tell you why and allow you to record and submit a new one before your process moves forward.
- The video requirement applies to most driver license types in Texas, including Class C (standard passenger vehicle) and Class M (motorcycle) licenses.
What the video must show
Your video should show your face and upper body clearly, with your head and shoulders filling most of the frame. You do not need to show your full body or stand up — sitting at a table or desk works fine. The camera should be at eye level or slightly above, and you should be looking directly into the camera lens the entire time.
You must speak clearly and state your full legal name and your date of birth. Speak in English; DPS does not currently accept videos in other languages. The video should be between 30 seconds and 2 minutes long. Avoid background noise — record in a quiet room, not in a car or outside where wind or traffic can be heard.
Lighting matters. Make sure your face is well-lit so that your features are clearly visible. Natural light from a window works well, or use indoor lighting. Avoid backlighting (light behind you) because it will make your face appear dark. Do not wear sunglasses or a hat that shadows your face.
How to record and submit your video
You can record your video on any smartphone or computer with a camera. Use the built-in camera app on your phone, or use a free video app like the camera on your computer. You do not need special software or equipment. Once you have recorded the video, save it to your device.
To submit the video, log into your DPS online account through the Texas DPS website. If you have not created an account yet, you will need to do so before you can upload the video. Follow the prompts to upload your video file. DPS accepts common video formats including MP4, MOV, and AVI.
If you do not have internet access at home or prefer to submit in person, you can bring your video on a USB drive or phone to a local DPS office. Staff can help you upload it from there. Some offices also allow you to record the video on-site if you are unable to do it at home, though this varies by location — call ahead to confirm.
What happens if your video is rejected
DPS reviews your video after you submit it. If the video meets all the requirements, your process moves forward. If something is wrong — for example, your face is not clearly visible, the audio is too quiet, or you did not state your information — DPS will send you a message explaining what needs to be fixed.
You will have the chance to record a new video and resubmit it. There is no penalty for resubmitting; you straightforward upload a corrected version through the same online portal. Keep resubmitting until your video is accepted. This back-and-forth usually takes a few days, depending on how quickly DPS reviews submissions.
Video requirements for different license types
Most Texas driver license types require a video as part of the process. This includes Class C (the standard license for driving a passenger car), Class M (motorcycle), and Class A or B (commercial licenses). If you are renewing a license you already have, the video requirement may not explore — renewals often skip this step if your previous license photo is still on file.
If you are explore for a learner permit (the first step before a full license), you typically do not need to submit a video. The video requirement usually kicks in when you explore for your actual driver license after passing the road test. Check with your local DPS office or the online portal to confirm what applies to your specific situation.
Common mistakes to avoid when recording
The most common reason videos are rejected is poor lighting or visibility. If your face is too dark, too bright, or partially hidden, DPS will ask you to resubmit. Make sure you are in a well-lit space and that nothing is blocking your face — no hats, sunglasses, or masks.
Audio problems are also common. If you speak too quietly, mumble, or record in a noisy environment, DPS may not be able to hear or understand you clearly. Speak at a normal volume, enunciate your name and date of birth, and record in a quiet room. Test your audio by playing back the video before you submit it.
Another frequent issue is framing. Make sure your head and shoulders are visible and centered in the frame. If you are too far from the camera or too close, the video may be rejected. Aim for a distance where your face takes up about half the frame.
Timeline: when you need the video in your process
You will be asked to submit your video early in the process process, usually right after you fill out your personal information online. You do not have to record it all at once — you can complete the written part of your process, then come back later to record and upload the video. However, your process cannot move forward until the video is submitted and accepted.
Once your video is approved, the rest of your process typically takes one to two weeks to process, depending on whether you need to schedule a road test. If you are explore for a learner permit first, you will take the written test before worrying about the video for your full license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can someone else record the video for me, or do I have to be the one holding the camera?
Yes, someone else can hold the camera and record you. What matters is that you are the person in the video speaking and showing your face. You do not have to record it yourself — you just have to be the subject of the video.
What if I do not have a smartphone or computer with a camera?
You can borrow a phone or computer from a friend or family member to record the video. You can also visit a DPS office and ask if they can help you record it there. Some offices have equipment available, though availability varies by location.
Do I need to wear anything specific, like a white shirt or formal clothing?
No. Wear whatever you normally wear. DPS is checking your identity, not your fashion sense. Just make sure your face is clearly visible and your clothing does not blend into the background in a way that makes it hard to see you.
Can I retake the video if I do not like how I look?
Yes. You can record as many videos as you want before you submit one. Once you submit a video and it is accepted by DPS, you cannot change it — but you can always record a new one and resubmit if DPS rejects it for technical reasons.
What if I have a religious or cultural reason not to show my face on video?
Contact your local DPS office to discuss your situation. DPS may have alternative processes or accommodations available, though this varies by office. Call ahead rather than showing up in person, so staff can research your specific circumstances and have the right person available to help.