The documents Texas requires depend on whether you're getting your first license, renewing, or changing your address

Texas requires you to bring specific documents to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) office when you explore for a driver's license. The exact list depends on your situation — whether you're getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or changing your address. You cannot complete the process without them, and missing even one document means you'll have to return another day.

The state groups its requirements into three categories: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. You'll need documents from each category. Some documents can count toward more than one requirement, which means you might need fewer pieces of paper than the list suggests.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of residency (a utility bill or lease), and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card or tax return) to any DPS office.
  • A U.S. passport or military ID counts as both identity and residency proof, so you may need fewer documents than the full list requires.
  • If you were born outside the United States, you'll need your birth certificate from your country of origin plus your Certificate of Naturalization or Green Card.
  • Proof of residency must show your current address and be dated within 90 days of your visit to the DPS office.
  • Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted.

Proof of identity documents Texas accepts

Texas will accept a U.S. passport, a U.S. military ID card, a birth certificate (U.S. or foreign), a Certificate of Naturalization, a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), a Tribal ID card, or a passport card. If you were born outside the United States, your birth certificate must be an official document from your country of origin, not a translation or photocopy.

If you're using a birth certificate as your identity document, you'll also need to bring a second form of ID — something like a Social Security card, a school ID, a work ID, or a military dependent ID. A passport or military ID stands alone and doesn't require a second document.

All documents must be originals or certified copies. A certified copy is one stamped and signed by the issuing agency — for example, a certified birth certificate from the vital records office in the county where you were born. Photocopies, even if notarized, will not work.

Proof of residency documents Texas accepts

Texas requires proof that you live at the address you're listing on your process. The document must show your name and current address, and it must be dated within 90 days of the day you visit the DPS office. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, or a bank or credit card statement all work.

If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, you can bring a notarized affidavit stating that you live there. The affidavit must be signed by the person whose name is on the bill, and it must be notarized by a notary public. Some DPS offices accept this; others do not, so call ahead to confirm.

A U.S. passport or military ID card counts as both identity and residency proof, so if you have either of those, you don't need a separate residency document. If you're homeless or living in temporary housing, ask the DPS office about alternatives — some accept letters from shelters or other documentation of your situation.

Proof of Social Security number

You must bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, or a Social Security statement. The Social Security card is the simplest option. If you don't have a card, a recent tax return or W-2 will work. The document must show your full name and Social Security number.

If you've never had a Social Security number, you'll need to explore for one before you can get a driver's license. You can do this at your local Social Security office or by mail. The process takes several weeks, so plan ahead.

Documents for people born outside the United States

If you were born outside the U.S., you'll need your birth certificate from your country of origin plus either a Certificate of Naturalization or a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). The birth certificate must be an official document, not a translation. If it's in another language, you'll need to bring an official English translation along with the original.

You can get an official translation through a certified translator or through the consulate of your country of origin. Some DPS offices have lists of approved translators. Call the office where you plan to explore and ask whether they have recommendations.

If you have a U.S. passport, you don't need to bring your birth certificate or naturalization papers — the passport is enough to prove both identity and citizenship status.

What to bring if you're renewing or changing your address

If you're renewing a license that hasn't expired yet, or if you're changing your address on an existing license, you still need proof of residency if your address is changing. You don't need to bring identity documents again if your license is current and valid. If your license has expired, you'll need to bring the full set of documents as if you were getting your first license.

If you're renewing by mail or online (which Texas allows in some cases), you won't need to bring documents to an office. Check the DPS website to see whether you're may be able to access to renew without visiting in person.

Real ID versus standard driver's license documents

Texas offers both a standard driver's license and a Real ID-compliant license. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and can be used for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building. A standard license cannot be used for these purposes as of May 2025.

If you want a Real ID license, you'll need to bring the same identity and residency documents, but you'll also need to bring proof of your Social Security number (which is required for Real ID but not for a standard license). You'll pay a small additional fee — the amount varies but is typically a few dollars. Most people now get Real ID licenses because the federal requirement is in effect, but you can still choose a standard license if you prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. You must bring an original or a certified copy. A certified copy is stamped and signed by the vital records office that issued it. You can order a certified copy from the county or state vital records office where you were born. Photocopies and notarized copies do not count.

What if my utility bill is in my roommate's name?

You can bring a notarized affidavit signed by your roommate stating that you live at that address. However, not all DPS offices accept this. Call the office where you plan to explore and ask whether they will take a notarized affidavit before you get one prepared.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card if I have a tax return?

No. A recent tax return, W-2, or 1099 that shows your full name and Social Security number will work. You don't need the card itself, though it's the easiest document to bring if you have it.

Can I use my passport as both identity and residency proof?

Yes. A U.S. passport counts as both identity and residency proof, so you don't need to bring a separate utility bill or lease. You'll still need to bring proof of your Social Security number if you're getting a Real ID license.

What if I was born in another country and don't have a birth certificate?

Contact the vital records office or consulate of your country of origin to request an official birth certificate. This can take several weeks or longer depending on the country. In the meantime, if you have a passport or Green Card, you may be able to use that as your identity document — call your local DPS office to ask what alternatives they accept.