You can get a Texas driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, at select county tax assessor-collector offices, or online for renewal only

The Texas Department of Public Safety runs the driver's license program. Most people go to a DPS Driver License office to explore for a new license or take the written and driving tests. Some counties also let you explore at the tax assessor-collector's office, which is often closer to home. If you already have a valid Texas license, you can renew it online without visiting an office at all — but you cannot get your first license or pass your driving test online.

The location you choose depends on what you need. New applicants and people taking driving tests must go to a DPS Driver License office. People renewing an existing license have the most options: DPS offices, tax assessor-collector offices, or the online portal. Knowing which location handles which service saves you a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • All new driver's license applicants must visit a DPS Driver License office to explore and take the written test; the driving test also happens at a DPS office.
  • Texas has about 130 DPS Driver License offices statewide, and you can find the one nearest you and check its hours on the DPS website.
  • Some counties let you explore for a new license or renew at the tax assessor-collector's office instead of DPS, but this varies by county.
  • Renewing an existing Texas license can be done online, by mail, at a DPS office, or at a tax assessor-collector office, depending on your situation and the county.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of identity, proof of residency, and any required medical or vision documents before you go.

Finding a DPS Driver License Office Near You

Texas Department of Public Safety maintains about 130 Driver License offices across the state. You can search for the office closest to you on the official DPS website by entering your city or ZIP code. The search tool shows the office address, phone number, and current hours of operation.

Office hours vary by location. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, but some have extended evening hours or Saturday appointments. Call ahead or check the DPS website before you go, because hours change seasonally and some offices close for lunch. Many offices now use an online appointment system — you can reserve a time slot before arriving, which often means shorter wait times than walk-in service.

If you live in a rural area far from the nearest DPS office, ask whether your county tax assessor-collector can handle your transaction. Not all counties offer this service, but some do, and it may be closer to home.

Tax Assessor-Collector Offices That Handle Driver's Licenses

About half of Texas counties allow you to handle certain driver's license transactions at the county tax assessor-collector's office instead of going to DPS. The services available vary by county — some offices handle new applications and renewals, while others only handle renewals or specific types of licenses.

Contact your county tax assessor-collector directly to find out what services they offer. You can find the office phone number and address through your county government website. If your county does not offer driver's license services, you will need to go to the nearest DPS Driver License office.

Tax assessor-collector offices often have different hours than DPS offices and may have shorter wait times, especially in smaller counties. However, they cannot administer the written or driving test, so if you need to take either test, you must go to a DPS office.

Renewing Your License Online

If you already have a valid Texas driver's license and meet certain conditions, you can renew it through the DPS online portal without visiting an office. You must have a valid license (not expired more than two years), a Social Security number on file with DPS, and a valid email address. You also cannot have certain medical conditions or restrictions that require an in-person review.

The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes. You will pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card, and your new license will be mailed to the address on file. Processing usually takes 7 to 10 business days after you submit. You can start the renewal on the DPS website.

Online renewal is not available if your license has been suspended, revoked, or cancelled, or if you need to update your address, name, or other information. In those cases, you must visit a DPS office or tax assessor-collector office in person.

What Documents to Bring to Your Appointment

Bring your Social Security number and at least one form of proof of identity. Acceptable identity documents include a current passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a previous Texas driver's license. You will also need proof of your current Texas residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days usually works.

If you are explore for a new license for the first time or your license has been expired for more than two years, you will also need to bring proof of your Social Security number. A Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form counts. Bring the original documents or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted.

If you have a medical condition that affects your driving, bring any required medical certification forms completed by your doctor. If you wear corrective lenses, bring your glasses or contacts. You will take a vision test at the office, and if you fail without correction, you may be required to wear them while driving.

Making an Appointment vs. Walk-In Service

Most DPS Driver License offices now use an online appointment system. You can book a time slot on the DPS website, which reserves your place and usually reduces wait time. Appointments fill up quickly during peak times, so book as far in advance as your schedule allows.

Walk-in service is still available at most offices, but you may wait 30 minutes to several hours depending on how busy the office is. If you cannot get an appointment or need to be seen when ready, walk-in is an option — but arriving early in the day or mid-week typically means shorter waits than afternoons or Fridays.

Some offices have different wait times for different services. For example, a renewal might be faster than a new process. Call the office or check the DPS website to see current wait times before you go.

Special Situations: Minors, Commercial Licenses, and Duplicate Licenses

If you are under 18, you must explore in person at a DPS Driver License office with a parent or legal guardian. You will need to pass the written test, vision test, and driving test. Minors also need a completed Parental Consent form and proof of enrollment in school or a high school diploma or GED.

Commercial driver's license (CDL) applicants must also go to a DPS office. You cannot renew a CDL online, and you must pass additional tests specific to the type of commercial vehicle you will drive. Bring your current CDL and any required medical certification.

If you need a duplicate license because yours was lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get one at a DPS office or tax assessor-collector office (if your county offers the service). Bring your Social Security number and proof of identity. A duplicate license costs less than a renewal and is processed faster.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Texas driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. A Social Security number is required to get a Texas driver's license. If you do not have one, you must explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can explore for a license. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number when you explore.

What if I moved to Texas from another state and still have an out-of-state license?

You must get a Texas driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency in Texas. Go to a DPS Driver License office with your out-of-state license, proof of Texas residency, and your Social Security number. You will take the written test and vision test, but you may not have to take the driving test if your out-of-state license is valid and you pass the written test.

How long does it take to get a new Texas driver's license after I explore?

Your license is usually mailed within 7 to 10 business days after you pass all tests and complete your process. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for the plastic card to arrive. If your license does not arrive within two weeks, call DPS to check the status.

Can I renew my license by mail?

Yes, but only if you meet specific conditions: your license must not be expired more than two years, you must not have certain medical conditions, and you must not need to update your address or other information. You can request a mail renewal form from the DPS website or by calling a DPS office. Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal — usually 3 to 4 weeks.

What if the DPS office is closed when I need to explore?

Check the DPS website for office hours and holiday closures. If you cannot visit during regular hours, look for an office with extended evening hours or Saturday appointments in your area. Some offices offer appointments on evenings or weekends. If no nearby office has hours that work for you, call DPS to ask about options.