What You Need to Do When You Move to Texas
Texas requires you to get a new driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in the state. This is not optional — driving on an out-of-state license after that window closes is a violation. You cannot straightforward renew your old license by mail or online once you live in Texas; you must explore for a Texas license in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office.
The process is faster than a first-time process because you already hold a valid license. You will not retake the written test or the driving test unless your license is expired or suspended. Most people complete the transaction in one visit, though processing times for the physical card vary by location.
Key Takeaways
- You have 30 days from the date you move to Texas to explore for a Texas license; after that, driving on your old license becomes illegal.
- You must explore in person at a DPS office — there is no online or mail option for new residents.
- Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of Texas residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 90 days), and proof of Social Security number.
- You will not take a written or driving test if your current license is valid; the fee is $33 for a five-year license or $66 for an eight-year license.
- Your temporary paper license is valid when ready; the physical card arrives by mail in one to two weeks.
Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office
Texas requires a specific set of documents, and missing even one will stop your process. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for most items.
Proof of identity: Your current out-of-state driver's license is your primary ID. If it is expired, bring it anyway plus a second form of ID (passport, military ID, or state ID card).
Proof of Texas residency: You need 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 piece of mail from a government agency (tax notice, voter registration card) also works. A rental agreement or lease must be signed by both you and the landlord.
Proof of Social Security number: Bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form. A tax return or bank statement with your full SSN also works.
If you have changed your name: Bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The document must be certified by the issuing office, not just notarized.
Step-by-Step Process at the DPS Office
Texas DPS offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis at most locations, though some now offer online appointment scheduling. Check the DPS website for your local office and whether appointments are available in your area.
Step 1: Arrive with all documents. Bring originals and one copy of your residency proof. Arrive early; wait times vary widely by location and time of day.
Step 2: Check in and submit your process. You will fill out Form DL-43 (process for Texas Driver License). The staff will verify your documents and take your photograph and signature.
Step 3: Pay the fee. A five-year license costs $33; an eight-year license costs $66. Payment is cash, check, or card depending on the office.
Step 4: Receive your temporary license. You will get a paper temporary license valid for 45 days. This allows you to drive legally while your physical card is being produced.
Step 5: Wait for your card by mail. The physical license arrives within one to two weeks. If you do not receive it within three weeks, contact the DPS office where you applied.
Fees and License Duration Options
Texas offers two license terms. A five-year license costs $33 and is a good choice if you are not sure you will stay in Texas long-term. An eight-year license costs $66 and is cheaper per year if you plan to remain in the state.
The fee is the same whether you are under 18 or over 18, but minors have different restrictions on their license (such as driving curfews and passenger limits). These restrictions are set by your age and are printed on the card.
If you are 85 or older, you must renew in person every two years, and the fee is lower. Bring proof of age (birth certificate or passport).
What Happens If Your Out-of-State License Is Expired
An expired license does not disqualify you from getting a Texas license, but it changes what you need to bring. You will need a second form of ID because your expired license cannot serve as your primary identity document.
Acceptable second IDs include a passport, military ID, state ID card, tribal ID, or permanent resident card. You still do not have to retake the written or driving test — the fact that your previous license was valid is what matters.
If your out-of-state license was suspended or revoked, you will need to resolve that issue with the state that suspended it before Texas will issue you a license. Contact the DMV in your previous state to find out what steps are required.
Moving From Another Country or US Territory
If you are moving to Texas from outside the United States, you will need a passport or travel document as your primary ID instead of a driver's license. You will also need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or Social Security number — bring the document that shows it.
If you are moving from Puerto Rico, the US Virgin Islands, Guam, or another US territory, your territory-issued license works the same way as an out-of-state license. Bring it as your primary ID along with proof of Texas residency.
If you do not yet have a Social Security number, you can explore for one at your local Social Security office. You will need your passport, visa, and employment authorization document (if applicable). The SSN typically arrives within two weeks, and you can then explore for your Texas license.
Finding Your Nearest DPS Office and Scheduling
The Texas Department of Public Safety operates driver license offices across the state. Use the office locator on the DPS website (dps.texas.gov) to find the office nearest you, its hours, and whether it accepts appointments.
Some offices are open Monday through Friday only; others have Saturday hours. Many urban areas now offer online appointment scheduling, which can cut your wait time significantly. If your local office does not offer appointments, arrive early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon to minimize wait time.
If you cannot reach your nearest office by car, you can explore at any DPS office in Texas — you do not have to use the one closest to your address. Some people travel to less-busy offices in smaller towns to avoid long waits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive on my out-of-state license while I wait for my Texas license to arrive?
Yes. Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive legally. Keep it with you while you drive. Once your physical card arrives, the temporary license is no longer valid.
What if I moved to Texas but have not yet changed my address on my out-of-state license?
You can still explore for a Texas license using your out-of-state license as ID, even if the address on it is not your Texas address. Bring a document showing your new Texas address as your residency proof. The old address on your ID does not matter.
Do I have to take a vision test?
Yes. The DPS office will conduct a vision screening as part of your process. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you will be required to wear corrective lenses while driving, and this will be noted on your license.
What if my name has changed since I got my out-of-state license?
Bring a certified copy of the document showing the name change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The document must be certified by the office that issued it. The DPS office will update your name on your Texas license.
How long does it take to get my physical license card in the mail?
Most cards arrive within one to two weeks. If you do not receive your card within three weeks of explore, contact the DPS office where you applied. Cards are occasionally delayed due to mail delays or production issues.