The Fort Worth DPS Office and What It Handles

The main place to renew, replace, or get a driver's license in Fort Worth is the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. This is a state agency, not a city office, and it's the only place that issues the actual license card. You cannot get a license at a local courthouse, police station, or city hall — you must go to a DPS office.

Fort Worth has one primary DPS Driver License office located at 3211 Burton Hill Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76106. This office handles written tests, road tests, license renewals, replacements, and new license issuance. It's open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though hours can shift seasonally, so checking ahead by phone or online is wise before you go.

The office does not take walk-ins for road tests. You must schedule a road test appointment in advance through the DPS website or by phone. Written tests (the knowledge test) typically do not require an appointment, but arriving early in the day reduces wait times.

Key Takeaways

  • The DPS office at 3211 Burton Hill Drive is the only place in Fort Worth that issues driver's licenses and administers both written and road tests.
  • Road test appointments must be scheduled ahead of time; written tests usually do not require an appointment but expect longer waits during peak hours.
  • You will need specific documents depending on whether you are getting your first license, renewing, or replacing a lost one.
  • The office is open Monday through Friday only, and hours vary, so confirm current hours before visiting.
  • If you cannot visit the Fort Worth office, other DPS locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area may have shorter wait times.

What Documents to Bring

The documents you need depend on what you are doing. For a first-time license, bring your Social Security card (or a document showing your number), proof of Texas residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days), and a document proving your identity and date of birth, such as a passport, birth certificate, or certified school record.

For a renewal, you typically only need your current license and proof of residency if your address has changed. For a replacement (lost or stolen), bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and a form of ID. The DPS website lists the full acceptable documents for each category — bring more than you think you need, because missing a single document means a wasted trip.

If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present. Bring their ID as well. If you are explore for a Real ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and flights after May 2025), the document requirements are stricter and include proof of citizenship or legal residency.

How to Schedule a Road Test Appointment

Road tests in Texas are scheduled through the DPS website at dps.texas.gov or by calling the Fort Worth office directly. You cannot walk in and take a test the same day. Appointments typically fill up weeks in advance, especially during summer and early fall, so schedule as soon as you are ready.

To book online, you will need your driver's license number (if you already have a learner's permit) or your Social Security number. The system will show available dates and times. If no appointments are available in Fort Worth, you can look at other DPS offices in the area — Arlington, Irving, and Denton often have openings when Fort Worth is full.

Bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and the vehicle you will be tested in on the day of your appointment. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. Arrive at least 10 minutes early.

Written Test Information and Preparation

The written test (knowledge test) covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take it without an appointment at the Fort Worth DPS office, though you may wait 30 minutes to several hours depending on the time of day. The test is available in English and Spanish.

You must pass the written test before you can take a road test. The passing score is 70 percent. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period between attempts at the Fort Worth office, though some offices have different rules.

Study materials are free on the DPS website, including the official Texas Driver Handbook and practice tests. Many people study the handbook for a few days and pass on their first try. If you are nervous, taking a practice test online first shows you what to expect.

Other DPS Locations Near Fort Worth

If the Burton Hill Drive office has long waits or no available road test appointments, other DPS offices in the Dallas-Fort Worth area may be faster. The Arlington DPS office is about 20 minutes south, Irving is about 25 minutes east, and Denton is about 30 minutes north. All three handle the same services and accept the same documents.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Visiting a smaller office on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning usually means shorter lines than the main Fort Worth office on a Friday afternoon. You can call ahead to ask about current wait times before making the drive.

Your license is valid in all of Texas regardless of which office issues it, so there is no disadvantage to getting it from Arlington or Irving if that office is more convenient.

Hours, Phone Number, and How to Prepare

The Fort Worth DPS Driver License office is located at 3211 Burton Hill Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76106. The phone number is (817) 850-3600. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though these can change. Call or check dps.texas.gov before you go to confirm current hours.

Bring all required documents, arrive early if you are taking the written test without an appointment, and have your road test appointment confirmation number ready if you are testing that day. Bring a pen for the written test. Do not bring children unless they are also testing that day — the office does not have a waiting area for family members.

If you are taking a road test, make sure your vehicle has working brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors. The examiner will check these before the test begins. Wear your seatbelt during the test — it is required and a safety violation will result in an automatic fail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online instead of going to the office?

Texas allows online renewal for some people, but only if your license is not expired and you meet other requirements. Check the DPS website to see if you may have access to. If you cannot renew online, you must visit the Fort Worth office in person.

What if I fail my road test?

You can schedule another road test appointment as soon as the next available slot opens. There is no mandatory waiting period in Texas. Most people pass on their second or third attempt after practicing the skills the examiner noted.

Do I need an appointment for the written test?

No, but you will likely wait longer without one. If you want to schedule a written test appointment, you can do so through the DPS website. Walk-ins are accepted but may wait 1 to 3 hours depending on the time of day.

What if I cannot get an appointment in Fort Worth?

Check the Arlington, Irving, or Denton DPS offices — they are all within 30 minutes of Fort Worth and often have sooner appointments. Your license will be the same regardless of which office issues it.

Can I take my road test in a rental car?

Yes, as long as the rental car is insured and in safe working condition. Bring proof of insurance and the rental agreement. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors.