Where to explore for Your Driver's License in Dallas
In Dallas, you get your driver's license at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. There are multiple DPS locations across the Dallas area, and each one handles written tests, road tests, and license issuance. You cannot get a license at a county courthouse, city hall, or any other government office — DPS is the only place that issues them.
The Dallas area has several DPS offices open to the public. The main locations are in Dallas proper, but there are also offices in surrounding areas like Arlington, Irving, and Plano. Each office keeps the same hours and handles the same services, so you can choose whichever is most convenient for you.
Key Takeaways
- The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the only place to get a driver's license in Dallas; you must visit a DPS office in person.
- Multiple DPS locations serve the Dallas area, and you can choose any of them regardless of where you live or work.
- You need to bring specific documents — your Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of identity — before you go.
- DPS offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and you should arrive early or check wait times online before you go.
- You can take your written test and road test at the same DPS office, though you may need to schedule the road test in advance.
DPS Office Locations Serving Dallas
The Dallas DPS office is located downtown and is the busiest location in the area. It handles all license types and services, including written tests, road tests, and renewals. Because it is the most central location, it also has the longest wait times, especially on Fridays and at midday.
If you live or work in the suburbs, you have other options. The Arlington DPS office, Irving DPS office, and Plano DPS office all serve the Dallas metro area and typically have shorter wait times than the downtown Dallas location. You do not have to go to the office closest to your home — you can visit any DPS office in Texas.
You can find the full list of DPS office addresses and phone numbers on the Texas DPS website. The site also shows current wait times at each location, updated throughout the day. Checking wait times before you leave home can save you an hour or more.
What Documents You Need to Bring
Before you go to a DPS office, gather your documents. You will need proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or state ID), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address), and your Social Security number. If you do not have your Social Security card, you can bring a W-2 form, tax return, or Social Security statement instead.
If you are under 18, you also need a completed Form DL-44 (process for Texas Driver License or Identification Card), signed by a parent or guardian. You can fill this out at home and bring it with you, or you can fill it out at the DPS office. Bringing it filled out saves time.
If you are explore for a Real ID compliant license (which you will need to fly domestically after May 2025), bring the same documents plus one additional document proving your Social Security number — a W-2, tax return, or Social Security statement. A standard driver's license does not require this extra step.
Hours and How to Prepare for Your Visit
DPS offices in Dallas are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some locations closing for lunch between noon and 1 p.m. They are closed on weekends and state holidays. Hours can vary slightly by location, so check the specific office's hours on the Texas DPS website before you go.
Arrive early if you can — wait times are shortest in the morning, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. If you go on a Friday or after 3 p.m., expect a wait of 30 minutes to over an hour at the downtown Dallas location. The DPS website shows real-time wait times, so you can check before you leave home.
Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Have your Social Security number memorized or written down. If you are taking your road test the same day, wear clothes you can move in and closed-toe shoes — you cannot take the test in flip-flops or sandals.
Taking Your Written Test at DPS
When you arrive at the DPS office, check in at the front desk and tell them you are there for a written test. You will be given a number and told to wait. When your number is called, you will go to a testing station where a DPS employee will verify your documents and take your photo for your license.
The written test is on a computer and covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You have 45 minutes to answer 30 multiple-choice questions. You need to get at least 21 questions right to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period between attempts.
After you pass the written test, you can schedule your road test right there at the office. Some offices let you take the road test the same day if there is an opening; others require you to schedule it for another day. Ask the DPS employee what is available before you leave.
Scheduling and Taking Your Road Test
Your road test must be scheduled in advance at most Dallas-area DPS offices. You can schedule it when you pass your written test, or you can call the DPS office directly to book a time. Road tests are typically available on weekdays and take about 30 minutes.
When you arrive for your road test, bring the same documents you brought for your written test, plus your vehicle. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn before you start. If anything is broken, you will not be allowed to take the test.
The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the car, pulling into traffic, turning, parking, and stopping. They are looking for safe driving habits, not perfect driving. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you may have to wait a few days for the next available appointment.
Getting Your License After You Pass
After you pass your road test, you will go back inside the DPS office to pay the license fee and have your photo taken if you have not already. The fee for a five-year driver's license is $33. You can pay by cash, check, or card — ask at the counter what payment methods they accept.
Your temporary license is printed on paper and given to you when ready. This temporary license is valid for 45 days while your permanent plastic license is mailed to your address. Your permanent license arrives in the mail within two to three weeks in most cases, though it can take longer during busy periods.
Keep your temporary license with you while you drive — it is a valid license until your permanent one arrives. Once your permanent license comes in the mail, the temporary one is no longer valid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my road test in a borrowed car or rental car?
Yes, you can use any vehicle as long as it is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name. Make sure the owner gives you permission and that the insurance is valid for you to drive it.
What happens if I fail my road test?
You can retake it, but you will have to schedule another appointment. There is no waiting period — you can retake it the next day if an appointment is available. You do not have to retake the written test unless your written test pass expires (which is typically one year).
Do I have to go to the Dallas DPS office or can I go to one in the suburbs?
You can go to any DPS office in the Dallas area or anywhere in Texas. You do not have to use the one closest to your home. Suburban offices often have shorter wait times, so going to Arlington, Irving, or Plano may be faster.
What if I do not have a Social Security number?
You will need to bring a document that shows your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form, tax return, or Social Security statement. If you do not have a Social Security number at all, contact the DPS office directly to ask what documents you can bring instead.
Can I renew my license at the same DPS office?
Yes. You can renew your license at any DPS office in Texas. Renewals are faster than getting a new license because you do not have to take a written or road test — you just update your information, pay the fee, and have a new photo taken.