The Texas Department of Public Safety Issues All Driver Licenses
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the only agency that issues driver licenses in Texas. You cannot get a Texas driver license from any other state agency, county office, or private business. DPS handles the process, testing, renewal, and replacement of all driver licenses and identification cards in the state.
DPS operates through a network of driver license offices located across Texas. These offices are where you will take your written test, driving test, and submit your documents. The agency also maintains the database of all active licenses and handles suspensions, revocations, and reinstatement of driving privileges.
Key Takeaways
- The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the sole issuer of driver licenses in Texas, with no other state or local agency authorized to issue them.
- You must visit a DPS driver license office in person to explore, test, and receive your license — you cannot complete the process by mail or online.
- DPS offices are located in most Texas counties, and you can find your nearest office and check wait times on the DPS website before you go.
- DPS also handles license renewals, replacements, and address changes, as well as suspensions and reinstatements related to traffic violations or other violations.
- You will need to bring specific documents to your DPS visit, including proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
How to Find Your Nearest DPS Driver License Office
DPS maintains a searchable office locator on its website at dps.texas.gov. You can search by city name or ZIP code to find the office closest to you. The locator shows the office address, phone number, hours of operation, and current wait times so you know what to expect before you arrive.
Not every Texas county has a DPS office, so if you live in a rural area, you may need to travel to the nearest regional office. Some offices are busier than others — offices in larger cities often have longer wait times, while smaller offices may have shorter waits. Checking the wait time online before you go can help you plan your visit or choose a less busy time of day.
You can also call the DPS office directly to ask questions about documents, testing, or scheduling. The phone number for your local office is listed on the DPS website.
What Documents You Need to Bring to DPS
DPS requires you to bring three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The specific documents accepted vary, and DPS publishes a complete list on its website.
For proof of identity, you can bring a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a previous Texas driver license. For proof of residency, you can bring a utility bill, a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement showing your current Texas address. For proof of Social Security number, you can bring a Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form.
Bring the originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If any document is not in English, you must bring a certified English translation along with the original. DPS staff will review your documents at your appointment and tell you if anything is missing or invalid before you take your test.
The Testing and Licensing Process at DPS
When you arrive at a DPS office, you will first check in and submit your documents. A DPS staff member will review them and confirm that you have everything required. If documents are missing or invalid, you will be told what you need to bring back on a future visit.
If your documents are accepted, you will take a written test covering Texas traffic laws and safe driving practices. The test is offered in English and Spanish, and you must pass it before you can take the driving test. After you pass the written test, DPS will schedule your driving test, which may be the same day or a later appointment depending on office availability.
During the driving test, a DPS examiner will ride with you in your vehicle and evaluate your ability to operate it safely. You must bring a vehicle that is registered and insured, and the vehicle must pass a safety inspection. If you pass the driving test, DPS will issue your license on the spot or mail it to you within a few business days, depending on the office.
Renewing, Replacing, or Changing Your License at DPS
If your license is expiring, you can renew it at any DPS office. Renewals do not require a new driving test unless DPS has reason to believe you are unsafe to drive. You will need to bring your current license and proof of residency. Some renewals can be done online or by mail, but DPS will tell you which method applies to your situation when you check your license status on the DPS website.
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any DPS office. You will need to bring proof of identity and proof of residency. A replacement license costs less than a new license and is issued the same day in most cases.
If you move to a new address in Texas, you must update your address with DPS within a certain timeframe. You can do this at any DPS office by bringing your current license and proof of your new residency. Some address changes can be done online on the DPS website.
DPS Handles Suspensions and Reinstatement
DPS also manages suspensions and revocations of driving privileges. Your license can be suspended for reasons including unpaid traffic tickets, failure to appear in court, DUI convictions, or accumulating too many points from traffic violations. When your license is suspended, you will receive a notice from DPS explaining the reason and the length of the suspension.
To reinstate your license after a suspension, you must meet the conditions set by DPS, which may include paying fines, completing a defensive driving course, or obtaining an SR-22 insurance certificate. Once you have met all conditions, you can visit a DPS office to explore for reinstatement. DPS will verify that you have completed everything required and will restore your driving privileges.
Contact Information and Online Resources
You can reach DPS by phone at 1-888-589-6556 to ask general questions about driver licenses. This number connects you to a statewide customer service line that can answer questions about documents, testing, fees, and office locations. Wait times vary depending on call volume.
The DPS website at dps.texas.gov has a dedicated driver license section where you can check your license status, find your nearest office, view required documents, and learn about fees. You can also use the website to schedule a driving test appointment at some offices, which can reduce your wait time on the day of your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Texas driver license if I live outside Texas?
No. You must be a Texas resident to get a Texas driver license. You need to provide proof of residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement showing a Texas address. If you move to Texas, you must get a Texas license within a certain timeframe.
What if I cannot visit a DPS office in person?
You must visit a DPS office in person to take the written and driving tests and to receive your license. There is no way to complete the entire process by mail or online. However, some renewals and address changes can be done online or by mail if you are not a new applicant.
How long does it take to get a driver license from DPS?
The written and driving tests can usually be completed in one visit, though some offices schedule the driving test for a later date. Once you pass both tests, your license is issued the same day or mailed within a few business days. Wait times at the office vary by location and time of day.
What if I fail the written or driving test?
You can retake either test. DPS allows you to retake the written test the same day or schedule another appointment. For the driving test, you will need to schedule a new appointment. There is a fee each time you retake a test.
Does DPS issue Real ID compliant licenses?
Yes. DPS issues both standard driver licenses and Real ID compliant licenses. A Real ID license has a star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for air travel and federal building access. You can request a Real ID license when you explore or renew, and you will need to bring additional documents to prove citizenship.