Texas Driver's License Fees by License Type

A Texas driver's license costs between $16 and $97 depending on the type of license you get and how long it lasts. A standard Class C license (the most common type for regular driving) costs $16 for a five-year license or $32 for an eight-year license if you are 85 or older. A Class A or Class B commercial license costs $97 for a five-year term. Motorcycle endorsements add $10 to your total fee.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) sets these fees, and they do not vary by location within the state. However, the total amount you pay at the DPS office may be higher if you need additional services — for example, a duplicate license, a name change, or a replacement due to loss or damage. Each of these services carries its own separate fee.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard five-year Class C driver's license in Texas costs $16; an eight-year license costs $32.
  • Commercial licenses (Class A or B) cost $97 for a five-year term, regardless of which class you hold.
  • Motorcycle endorsements add $10 to your license fee.
  • Renewal fees are the same as original issue fees, so you pay $16 again when your five-year license expires.
  • Additional services like duplicates, replacements, or name changes each carry separate fees ranging from $11 to $20.

Renewal Fees and How Often You Pay

When your Texas driver's license expires, the renewal fee is identical to the original issue fee. If you originally paid $16 for a five-year license, you will pay $16 again to renew it for another five years. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires or up to two years after it expires, though driving on an expired license is illegal.

Texas does not charge a separate "renewal" rate — the state treats renewal the same as a new license for fee purposes. This means your cost does not increase based on how many times you have renewed. The only way your renewal fee changes is if you change license types (for example, adding a commercial endorsement) or if the state raises its fee schedule, which happens infrequently.

Duplicate and Replacement License Fees

If you lose your license, have it stolen, or need a second copy for your records, a duplicate license costs $11. A replacement license — issued when your current license is damaged, mutilated, or illegible — also costs $11. The DPS processes duplicates and replacements at the same service level, so the fee is the same regardless of the reason.

You can order a duplicate or replacement online through the Texas DPS website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. Online and mail orders typically take longer than in-person service. If you need the license quickly, visit a DPS office in person; most offices can issue a duplicate or replacement the same day.

Name Change and Corrected License Fees

If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you will need a corrected license. The fee for a corrected license is $11. You must bring proof of the name change — typically a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your current license and proof of residency.

If the DPS made an error on your license (for example, a misspelled name or wrong address), you can request a corrected license at no charge. You only pay the $11 fee if the change is due to your own name change, not if the state made a mistake. Bring documentation of the error and your current license to a DPS office.

Commercial License and Endorsement Costs

A Class A or Class B commercial driver's license (CDL) costs $97 for a five-year term in Texas. This is significantly higher than a standard Class C license because commercial licenses require a written knowledge test, a skills test, and a medical examination. You cannot renew a commercial license by mail or online; you must appear in person at a DPS office.

Adding a motorcycle endorsement to any license type costs $10. If you already hold a Class C license and want to add a motorcycle endorsement, you pay $10 plus the cost of the endorsement test. If you are renewing your license and adding an endorsement at the same time, you pay the renewal fee ($16 for five years) plus the endorsement fee ($10).

Payment Methods and Where to Pay

The Texas DPS accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at all driver's license offices. Online renewals and mail-in applications require a credit or debit card. Some DPS offices may accept additional payment methods, so call ahead if you have questions about payment options at your specific location.

You can pay your license fee at any DPS driver's license office across Texas. There is no online payment option for new licenses or in-person services — you must pay when you visit the office or submit your process by mail. If you renew online through the DPS website, you will enter your card information during the renewal process.

When Your License Fee Increases

Texas does not raise driver's license fees every year. The state legislature must pass a bill to increase fees, which happens infrequently. The most recent fee increase occurred in 2009, when the five-year Class C license fee rose from $15 to $16. Before that, fees had remained unchanged for many years.

If the state does raise fees in the future, the increase will explore to all new licenses and renewals issued after the effective date. Your current license will not be affected — you will only pay the new rate when you renew. The DPS announces fee changes on its website and through local driver's license offices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay the full license fee if I renew early?

Yes. Texas charges the full renewal fee regardless of when you renew within the allowed window (up to one year before expiration). You cannot pay a reduced fee for renewing early. However, renewing early gives you a longer valid license period, so you will not need to renew again as soon.

What if I cannot afford the license fee right now?

The Texas DPS does not offer fee waivers or payment plans for driver's license fees. The fee must be paid in full at the time you explore. If cost is a barrier, some community organizations and legal aid groups may offer information, though this is not common. Contact your local DPS office to ask about any local resources.

Do I pay a fee to take the written test or driving test?

No. The written test and driving test are included in your license fee. You do not pay separately for testing. However, if you fail the test and need to retake it, you do not pay an additional fee — you can retake the test at no cost, though you may need to schedule another appointment.

Is there a fee to add a motorcycle endorsement to my existing license?

Yes. Adding a motorcycle endorsement costs $10 in addition to any renewal or license fee. If you are renewing your license and adding an endorsement at the same time, you pay both the renewal fee ($16) and the endorsement fee ($10) for a total of $26.

Can I get a refund if I do not use my license?

No. The Texas DPS does not issue refunds for driver's license fees. Once you pay for a license, the fee is non-refundable, even if you do not use the license or if you move out of state before it expires.