What You Need to Do to Get a New Texas Driver License
To get a new driver license in Texas, you must visit a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office in person, bring required documents, pass a vision test, and pay the fee. You cannot renew by mail or online if you are getting a license for the first time. The entire process takes about 30 to 45 minutes at the office, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
Texas issues driver licenses valid for six years for most adults under 85, and five years for those 85 and older. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that day, and the plastic card arrives by mail within two to three weeks.
Key Takeaways
- You must appear in person at a DPS driver license office with original or certified copies of your documents — no mail-in or online option exists for a new license.
- Bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of Texas residency (utility bill or lease dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number or Individual Tax Identification Number.
- You will take a vision test and written knowledge test at the office; the knowledge test covers road signs, right-of-way, and safe driving rules.
- The fee is $33 for a six-year license or $25 for a five-year license if you are 85 or older; payment is cash, debit, or credit card.
- You receive a temporary paper license when ready and the plastic card by mail in two to three weeks.
Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office
Texas requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number or ITIN. You must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted.
For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate (with raised seal), a military ID card, a Certificate of Naturalization, or a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). If your name has changed since the document was issued, bring a certified copy of the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.
For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 90 days showing your name and a Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank statement. A government-issued ID with your current address also works. If you live with someone else and do not have a bill in your name, bring a notarized affidavit from the person whose name is on the bill, plus that person's ID.
For proof of Social Security number or ITIN, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) — bring the IRS letter assigning your ITIN.
The Vision and Knowledge Tests at the Office
You will take a vision screening and a written knowledge test before you receive your license. The vision test checks whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you — you will be tested with them on. If you fail the vision test, you cannot get your license that day and must see an eye doctor, then return with a vision correction form.
The written knowledge test has 30 questions about Texas traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and Spanish. You can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, available free on the DPS website or in print at any driver license office. Many people study the handbook for a few days before their appointment.
If you fail the knowledge test, you can retake it the same day or return another day. There is no extra fee to retake the test.
Finding a DPS Office and Making an Appointment
Texas has over 130 DPS driver license offices across the state. You can find the office nearest you and check current wait times on the DPS website at dps.texas.gov. Many offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which reduces wait time significantly. Walk-ins are accepted, but appointment holders are served first.
Office hours vary by location but typically run Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some offices open on Saturday mornings. If you schedule an appointment, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all your documents. If you walk in, expect to wait 30 minutes to two hours depending on the time of day and day of the week. Early morning and mid-week visits usually have shorter waits than afternoons and Fridays.
Bring all required documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Have your documents organized and ready to hand over when called — staff move quickly and cannot wait while you search through a bag.
Fees and Payment Methods
A six-year driver license costs $33. If you are 85 years old or older, a five-year license costs $25. These are the only two options; Texas does not offer shorter-term licenses for younger drivers.
Payment is accepted in cash, debit card, or credit card. Some offices may not accept checks. If you are paying by card, bring the card itself — you cannot pay over the phone or online before your visit. If you do not have enough money at the office, you will need to leave and return another day with payment.
What Happens After You Leave the Office
You will receive a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and can be used when ready to drive. Keep it with you until your plastic card arrives.
Your permanent plastic driver license is mailed to the address you provided at the office. Standard mail delivery takes two to three weeks. If you move before the card arrives, you can update your address on the DPS website, and the card will be forwarded. Do not request a replacement card just because it has not arrived within two weeks — wait the full three weeks before contacting DPS.
If your card does not arrive after three weeks, contact the DPS by phone or visit the website to report it. You may be able to pick up a replacement at a driver license office, though this usually requires a second visit and another fee.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most common reason people are turned away is bringing photocopies instead of originals or certified copies. DPS staff will not accept a photocopy of your birth certificate or passport, even if it is notarized. Get certified copies from the issuing agency before your visit.
The second most common mistake is bringing a residency document older than 90 days. A utility bill from four months ago will not work. Check the date on every document before you go.
A third mistake is not bringing your glasses or contacts if you wear them. You will be tested with correction, and if you show up without them, you may fail the vision test and have to return another day.
Finally, do not assume you will pass the knowledge test without studying. The test covers specific Texas laws and road signs. Spend a few days with the Texas Driver Handbook before your appointment. Many people who fail do not return when ready, which delays getting their license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a driver license if I do not have a Social Security number?
Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring the IRS letter that assigned your ITIN. You must still bring all other required documents for identity and residency.
What if my name on my documents does not match?
Bring a certified copy of the document that shows the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. DPS will use this to match your documents and issue a license in your current legal name.
Do I have to take the knowledge test if I already have a driver license from another state?
Yes. Even if you hold a valid license from another state, Texas requires you to pass the knowledge test. You cannot waive it or transfer your out-of-state license. You must take the test at the DPS office.
What if I fail the vision test?
You cannot get your license that day. You must see an eye doctor, get a vision correction form signed, and return to the DPS office with that form. There is no fee for the second visit if you bring the eye doctor's form.
How long does the plastic card take to arrive?
Standard delivery is two to three weeks. If it does not arrive after three weeks, contact DPS to report it. Do not request a replacement before three weeks have passed.