The Texas Department of Public Safety Issues All Driver's Licenses

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the only agency that issues driver's licenses in Texas. You cannot get a license from any other state office, county government, or private organization. DPS handles everything: taking your process, running your background check, administering your written and road tests, and printing your license card.

DPS operates through a network of driver license offices across the state. These are the physical locations where you show up to take tests, submit documents, and pick up your license. There are roughly 130 DPS driver license offices statewide, so most people have one within reasonable driving distance.

Key Takeaways

  • The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the sole issuer of all Texas driver's licenses, whether you are a new driver, renewing, or changing your license type.
  • You must visit a DPS driver license office in person to take your written test, road test, and submit your original documents — you cannot complete these steps online or by mail.
  • 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 issues other forms of ID, including Texas ID cards for people who do not drive, so the same office handles multiple types of identification.

Finding Your Nearest DPS Driver License Office

You can locate a DPS driver license office near you through the official Texas DPS website. The site has a searchable office locator tool where you enter your city or zip code and see all nearby locations, their hours, and current wait times. This is the fastest way to find an office and plan when to visit.

Wait times vary widely by location and time of day. Urban offices in cities like Houston, Dallas, and Austin often have longer waits, especially during lunch hours and late afternoon. Rural offices typically move faster. The DPS website updates wait times throughout the day, so you can check before you leave home and choose a less busy time or a different location if needed.

Some DPS offices are open Monday through Friday only, while others have Saturday hours. A few locations stay open into the evening. Check the hours for your specific office before you go — closing times are earlier than you might expect, and many offices close for lunch.

What You Need to Bring to a DPS Office

DPS requires original documents, not copies. You must bring proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of Texas residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number. If you are under 18, you also need a parent or guardian present with their own ID.

Bring your learner's permit if you already have one. If you are renewing a license, bring your current license card. If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

DPS will not accept expired documents as proof of identity or residency. If your documents are expired, you will need to obtain new ones before your appointment. Photocopies are not accepted; originals only.

The DPS Written Test and Road Test Process

At your DPS office, you will take the written test first. This covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the official Texas Driver Handbook, which DPS publishes free online. The test is multiple choice, and you must pass with a score of at least 70 percent.

If you pass the written test, you will schedule your road test at the same office or at another DPS location. Road tests are not always available on the same day, so you may need to return on a different date. During the road test, a DPS examiner rides with you in your own vehicle and evaluates your ability to handle basic driving tasks, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions.

You must have a valid learner's permit before you take the road test. The permit must be in your possession during the test, and you must have held it for the minimum time required by Texas law — typically at least 20 days for drivers under 18.

DPS License Types and What Each One Means

DPS issues several types of driver's licenses depending on your age and driving history. A Class C license is the standard license for driving a regular passenger vehicle. A Class B license is for driving a single vehicle with air brakes or a combination of vehicles under certain weight limits. A Class A license is for driving heavier trucks or combinations of vehicles and requires additional testing.

Drivers under 18 receive a Probationary License with restrictions on when and where they can drive. These restrictions lift when the driver turns 18 or completes the required probation period. DPS also issues Motorcycle Endorsements if you pass an additional written and road test on a motorcycle.

If you do not drive, DPS issues a Texas ID card instead. This is a state-issued photo ID that works for identification purposes but does not permit you to drive. You obtain it through the same DPS offices using the same process.

Renewing or Replacing Your License Through DPS

When your license is about to expire, DPS sends you a renewal notice in the mail. You can renew in person at any DPS office, or you can renew online or by mail if you meet certain conditions — your license must not be suspended or revoked, and you must not have any medical restrictions.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must visit a DPS office in person to request a replacement. DPS will issue a new card with the same license number. The replacement process is faster than a full renewal because you do not need to retake tests.

If you move to a different address in Texas, you must update your address with DPS within 30 days. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. Updating your address does not require a new photo or a new test.

What Happens After You Pass Your Road Test

Once you pass your road test, DPS will print your license card on the spot or mail it to you within a few business days, depending on the office. You will receive a temporary paper license that is valid when ready while you wait for the plastic card to arrive. This temporary license is legal to carry and use while driving.

Your new license will show your name, address, date of birth, license number, and the type of license you hold. It will also show any restrictions or endorsements — for example, corrective lenses required, or a motorcycle endorsement. Check the card carefully when you receive it to make sure all information is correct.

Your Texas driver's license is valid for six years if you are 18 or older, and for four years if you are under 18. DPS will send you a renewal notice about 45 days before your license expires.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my written test at a location different from where I take my road test?

Yes. You can take your written test at one DPS office and your road test at another. Your learner's permit is valid at any DPS location in Texas. However, scheduling your road test at the same office where you passed your written test is often faster because your test results are already on file there.

What if I fail my written test or road test?

You can retake either test. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you may need to schedule another appointment. You pay the test fee each time you take the test. Most people pass on their second or third attempt after studying or practicing more.

Do I need an appointment to visit a DPS driver license office?

Appointments are not required at most DPS offices, but you can schedule one online to reduce your wait time. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait longer during busy hours. Scheduling ahead is especially helpful if you are visiting during peak times like Saturday morning or after work hours.

Can someone else pick up my license card if I cannot go to the DPS office?

No. You must pick up your license in person and sign for it. DPS does not mail licenses to addresses other than the one on your process, and they do not release licenses to anyone but the person whose name is on the card.

What if my DPS office is very far away?

You can visit any DPS driver license office in Texas, not just the one closest to your home. If your nearest office has long wait times or inconvenient hours, you can travel to a different location. Check wait times on the DPS website to find an office with shorter lines.