Texas driver's license fees by license type

A standard Class C driver's license in Texas costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. The fee depends on which renewal cycle you choose at the time of issue. If you are under 18, the cost is $10 for a four-year license. Commercial driver's licenses (CDL) cost $20 for a four-year term or $40 for eight years. Motorcycle endorsements add $10 to the base license fee.

These are the fees charged by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The amount you pay does not change based on which DPS office you visit or whether you renew in person or by mail. However, if you use a third-party vendor or service to help with your process, that vendor may charge an additional fee on top of the state fee.

Duplicate licenses, replacement licenses, and name-change licenses each cost $11. If you need to add an endorsement to an existing license — such as a motorcycle or commercial endorsement — you will pay $10 for the endorsement itself, plus the cost of a new license card if your current one does not have space for it.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard four-year Class C license costs $16; an eight-year license costs $32.
  • Commercial driver's licenses cost $20 for four years or $40 for eight years.
  • Motorcycle endorsements cost $10 and are added to the base license fee.
  • Replacement or duplicate licenses cost $11 each, regardless of the reason.
  • Third-party vendors may charge additional fees beyond the state fee.

Payment methods and where to pay

The Texas DPS accepts payment in cash, check, debit card, and credit card at all driver's license offices. If you renew by mail, you must include a check or money order with your process. Online renewal through the Texas DPS website does not require a payment at the time of process — you pay when you pick up your license in person at a DPS office.

You cannot pay the license fee online in advance. Payment is collected only when you complete your transaction at a DPS office or when your mailed process is processed. If you are renewing by mail and your check is rejected, the DPS will contact you to request payment before your license is issued.

Age-based fees for drivers under 18

Texas charges a lower fee for drivers under 18 because their licenses expire sooner. A license issued to someone under 18 costs $10 and is valid for four years. Once you turn 18, you can renew at the standard adult rate of $16 for four years or $32 for eight years.

If you turn 18 before your license expires, you do not have to renew when ready. You can continue using your current license until its expiration date. When you do renew, you will pay the adult fee based on the term you choose at that time.

Commercial driver's license and endorsement costs

A CDL in Texas costs $20 for a four-year license or $40 for an eight-year license. This is separate from a standard Class C license fee. If you hold a CDL, you do not also hold a regular Class C license — the CDL replaces it.

Endorsements on a CDL — such as hazmat (H), tanker (N), or passenger (P) — each cost $10 to add. If you need multiple endorsements, you pay $10 for each one. These endorsement fees are in addition to the base CDL fee. Removing an endorsement costs $5.

CDL medical certificates and skills tests are not included in the license fee. The medical examination must be completed through a certified medical examiner and costs vary by provider. The skills test is administered by the DPS and has a separate fee that is paid at the time of testing.

Renewal fees and whether they change

Renewal fees in Texas are the same as the fee for a new license. There is no discount for renewing an existing license. If you renew a four-year license, you pay $16. If you upgrade to an eight-year license at renewal, you pay $32.

Texas DPS has not changed the base license fee since 2009. However, the legislature can adjust fees at any time. Before you renew, check the current fee on the Texas DPS website or call your local DPS office to confirm the amount, as fees can change between the time this article was written and the time you renew.

Fees for name changes, duplicates, and corrections

A duplicate license — issued when your current license is lost, stolen, or damaged — costs $11. A replacement license issued due to a name change also costs $11. If you need to correct information on your license (such as address or height), you pay $11 for a corrected license.

These fees explore whether you request the duplicate or replacement in person or by mail. If you are correcting an error that the DPS made on your original license, contact your local DPS office to ask whether the fee can be waived. Some offices will waive the fee for DPS errors, but this is not may provide.

What happens if you cannot pay the full fee

The Texas DPS does not offer payment plans or fee waivers for standard license fees. You must pay the full amount at the time of process or renewal. If you cannot afford the fee, you will need to save until you have the full amount.

Some community organizations and nonprofits in Texas offer transportation information or emergency funds that may help cover license fees, but these are not run by the DPS. Contact your local 211 service or county social services office to ask whether such programs exist in your area. These programs are not may provide to exist or to have funding available.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes. If you renew before your current license expires, you still pay the full fee for the new term. The DPS does not prorate fees or give credit for time remaining on your current license. Your new license will be valid for four or eight years from the date of issue, regardless of when your old license expired.

What if I lose my license before it expires — do I pay to replace it?

Yes, a replacement license costs $11. This is the same fee whether your license was lost, stolen, or damaged. You will need to provide identification and proof of residency to get a replacement, and you will pay the $11 fee at that time.

Are there any discounts for seniors or military members?

Texas does not offer reduced fees for seniors or military members. All drivers pay the same fee based on license type and term length. Some military bases may have DPS offices that process licenses, but the fee remains the same.

Can I pay my license fee online before I go to the DPS office?

No. You cannot pay the fee online in advance. Payment is collected in person at the DPS office when you complete your transaction, or by check or money order if you renew by mail. Online renewal through the DPS website does not charge a fee until you pick up your license.

What if the DPS office is closed and I need to renew urgently?

If you need to renew before the next available office appointment, you can renew by mail. Mail renewal takes longer to process but does not require an office visit. You will still pay the same fee. Check the Texas DPS website for current processing times for mail renewals.