What Form You Need Depends on Your License Type and Situation

Texas uses different forms depending on whether you are explore for your first license, renewing an existing one, or changing your license type. The Department of Public Safety (DPS) publishes these forms on their website, and you can read them before you go to the DPS office — though many people fill them out on-site instead.

The most common form is Form DL-44, which is the process for a Texas driver license or identification card. If you are renewing a license that has not expired, you may use a simpler renewal form instead. If you are changing your address, name, or license class, you will need to know which form covers your specific situation.

This guide walks you through the main forms, what each one is for, and what documents you will bring to the DPS office alongside the form.

Key Takeaways

  • Form DL-44 is the standard process for a new Texas driver license or ID card and is required for first-time applicants.
  • You can read forms from the Texas DPS website before your appointment, but you can also fill them out at the DPS office.
  • Renewal applicants may use a shorter form if their license is still valid and they have not changed their address or name.
  • Bring your completed form along with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number to your DPS appointment.
  • Different license classes (motorcycle, commercial, regular passenger vehicle) may require additional forms or endorsement requests.

Form DL-44: process for a Texas Driver License or ID Card

Form DL-44 is the main process form for anyone getting a Texas driver license for the first time or replacing an expired license. You fill in your name, date of birth, address, and other personal information. The form also asks whether you want a standard license, a motorcycle endorsement, or a commercial driver license (CDL).

On the form, you will declare your Social Security number, which Texas DPS uses to verify your identity and check for outstanding warrants or disqualifications. You will also answer questions about your vision, medical conditions, and whether you have had any traffic convictions or license suspensions.

The form is two pages. You can print it from the Texas DPS website (texas.gov/dps) before you arrive, or you can request a copy when you walk into the DPS office. Either way, bring it completed or be ready to fill it out there. You will sign the form in front of a DPS employee, not beforehand.

Renewal Forms for Licenses That Have Not Expired

If your Texas driver license is still valid and you are straightforward renewing it before it expires, you may not need Form DL-44. Instead, Texas DPS offers a shorter renewal process. You can renew by mail, online, or in person, depending on your situation.

For in-person renewal, you will still fill out a form, but it is shorter than DL-44 because DPS already has most of your information on file. If you are renewing online or by mail, you will not use a paper form at all — you will submit your information through the DPS website or mail in your renewal notice.

Renewal in person is the right choice if your address or name has changed, if you want to update your medical information, or if you prefer to handle it face-to-face. Bring your current license and proof of any changes (such as a marriage certificate if you changed your name).

Forms for Motorcycle Endorsements and Commercial Licenses

If you want to add a motorcycle endorsement to your license or obtain a commercial driver license (CDL), you will use Form DL-44 but also request the endorsement or license class on that form. You do not need a separate form to request an endorsement.

For a motorcycle endorsement, you will need to pass a motorcycle-specific written test and a riding skills test. For a CDL, you will need to pass a more rigorous written test and a vehicle inspection test. These tests are separate from the form itself — the form just indicates what you are testing for.

If you already have a driver license and want to add an endorsement, you can go to a DPS office and request it without renewing your entire license. Ask the DPS employee which form to use in that situation; it may be a simpler amendment form rather than a full DL-44.

Address and Name Changes on Your License

If you have moved or changed your name but your license is still valid, you do not need to renew the whole license. Instead, you can update your information at a DPS office. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (such as a utility bill or lease), and proof of your name change if applicable (such as a marriage certificate or court order).

You will fill out a form at the DPS office to request the change. The employee will tell you which form to use — it is usually a shorter form than DL-44 because you are not reapplying for the license itself, just updating the information on it.

Some address changes can be done online through the Texas DPS website if you have a valid email address on file. Check the DPS website to see if your situation qualifies for online updating.

Where to read Forms and What to Bring

All Texas DPS forms are available on the official Texas Department of Public Safety website at texas.gov/dps. You can search for the form number (such as DL-44) or browse the forms section. Print the form at home, or wait and fill it out at the DPS office — both are acceptable.

When you go to your DPS appointment, bring the completed form along with the documents DPS requires. For a first-time license, you will need proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2 form), and proof of Texas residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement). Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are usually not accepted.

You will also need to pass a vision test and a written test at the DPS office. If you are under 18, you may need to bring a parent or guardian and proof of driver education completion.

What Happens After You Submit Your Form

Once you submit your completed form and documents at the DPS office, a DPS employee will review everything for completeness. If anything is missing or incorrect, they will tell you right away so you can fix it before you leave.

You will then take the written test (and vision test if required). If you pass, you will have your photo taken for your license. Your temporary license is usually printed on the spot, and your permanent license will arrive in the mail within one to two weeks.

If you do not pass the written test, you can retake it. You do not need to fill out the form again — just pay the retest fee and take the test again at your next appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fill out Form DL-44 at home and bring it to my appointment?

Yes. You can read Form DL-44 from the Texas DPS website, fill it out at home, and bring it to your appointment. However, you must sign it in front of a DPS employee — do not sign it beforehand. Many people also choose to fill it out at the DPS office instead, which is equally acceptable.

What if I make a mistake on the form?

If you make a small error before you submit it, cross it out neatly and write the correction above it. If you discover a mistake after you have submitted it, tell the DPS employee right away — they can often correct it on the spot or provide you with a new form to fill out.

Do I need a form to renew my license online?

No. Online renewal does not use a paper form. You will enter your information directly on the Texas DPS website. You can renew online only if your license is still valid, you have not changed your address or name, and you meet other may be able to access requirements listed on the DPS website.

What form do I use if I want to change my license class?

If you want to upgrade from a regular driver license to a commercial driver license (CDL), you will use Form DL-44 and indicate the CDL class you are requesting. You will also need to pass the CDL written test and skills test. Ask a DPS employee which form to use if you are making a different kind of change.

Where can I get a form if I do not have a printer?

You do not need to print the form beforehand. Every Texas DPS office has copies of all forms available at the front desk. You can walk in, ask for Form DL-44 or whichever form you need, and fill it out in the waiting area before your appointment.