The documents you need depend on whether you're renewing in person or by mail

Texas lets you renew your driver's license by mail, online, or in person at a DPS office. Each method requires different documents. If you're renewing in person, you'll need your current license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. If you're renewing by mail or online, the requirements are simpler — often just your current license and a check or credit card for the fee.

The easiest path is usually online renewal, which requires almost nothing beyond your license number and the ability to pay. But not everyone can renew online: if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you've changed your name, or if you need to update your address, you'll have to go in person or use the mail option.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person renewal requires your current Texas driver's license, one proof of residency document, and one proof of Social Security number.
  • Online renewal is the fastest method and requires only your license number, date of birth, and payment information.
  • Mail renewal requires your current license, a completed DL-43 form, and payment by check or money order.
  • If your license expired more than two years ago or you changed your name, you cannot renew by mail or online and must visit a DPS office in person.
  • Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 90 days of your visit.

Documents for in-person renewal at a DPS office

When you walk into a Texas Department of Public Safety office to renew, bring your current driver's license first. This is your primary document and proves your identity. You'll also need one document that shows your current address — this is called proof of residency. The DPS accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail addressed to you. The document must be dated within 90 days of the day you visit.

Third, bring one document that proves your Social Security number. This can be your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub showing your full Social Security number. If you don't have any of these, you can bring a birth certificate plus a document showing your name change (if applicable), though this takes longer to process.

You'll also need to pay the renewal fee. Texas charges different amounts depending on the length of your renewal: a four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. Bring a debit card, credit card, or cash — most DPS offices accept all three, but call ahead to confirm your local office's payment methods.

Documents for online renewal

Online renewal through the Texas DPS website is the fastest option if you're may be able to access. You don't need to gather physical documents at all. Instead, you'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number into the online form. The system verifies this information against DPS records and, if everything matches, approves your renewal when ready.

You'll pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card during the checkout process. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. Online renewal is only available if your license is current or expired less than two years, if you haven't changed your name, and if your address hasn't changed.

Documents for mail renewal using the DL-43 form

If you prefer to renew by mail, you'll need to read and print the DL-43 form from the Texas DPS website or request it by phone. Fill out the form completely, including your name, license number, date of birth, and current address. Sign and date the form — an unsigned form will be returned to you.

Mail your completed DL-43 form along with your current driver's license and payment to the address listed on the form. Payment must be by check or money order made out to the Texas Department of Public Safety. Do not send cash through the mail. Include a note with your phone number so the DPS can contact you if there are questions. Processing by mail takes 4 to 6 weeks, so plan ahead if your license is expiring soon.

What happens if your license expired more than two years ago

If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot use online or mail renewal. You must visit a DPS office in person. Bring the same documents as a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. The DPS will process you as a renewal rather than a new process, which is faster and costs less than explore for a license from scratch.

If you've also changed your name since your license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. This applies whether you're renewing in person, by mail, or online.

Address changes and name changes during renewal

If you're changing your address, you can do so during renewal. For in-person renewal, straightforward tell the DPS employee your new address and they'll update it on the spot. For online renewal, you cannot change your address — you'll need to visit in person or use mail renewal and note the new address on your DL-43 form.

Name changes require in-person renewal at a DPS office. Bring your current license, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and a certified copy of the document that shows your name change. This might be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, adoption papers, or a court order. The DPS will not process a name change by mail or online.

Where to find your local DPS office and check wait times

The Texas DPS website has a tool that shows all driver license offices in your area, their hours, and current wait times. You can search by city or zip code. Some offices are busier than others — visiting early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon usually means a shorter wait than visiting on Saturday or during lunch hours.

Many DPS offices now let you schedule an appointment online through their website. If your office offers appointments, booking one ahead of time can save you from waiting in line. Even with an appointment, arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all your documents ready so the employee can process you quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Texas license if I don't have a Social Security number?

If you don't have a Social Security number, you can renew in person by bringing your birth certificate plus a document showing your name change (if applicable). This takes longer to process, so plan for an extra week or two. Call your local DPS office first to confirm they can handle your situation.

What if my proof of residency document is older than 90 days?

The DPS requires proof of residency dated within 90 days of your visit. If your document is older, bring a second document that is current — a recent utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement. You only need one document that meets the 90-day rule.

Do I need to take a new photo when I renew?

For in-person renewal, yes — the DPS will take a new photo as part of the process. For online and mail renewal, your photo from your current license is used, so you won't need to visit an office or provide a new photo.

How long does it take to get my renewed license after I explore in person?

Your new license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days after your in-person visit. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need the license sooner, some DPS offices offer a rush service for an additional fee.

Can I renew my license if I owe traffic fines or child support?

The DPS will not renew your license if you have an outstanding child support debt or certain traffic-related holds on your record. Contact the DPS or the relevant agency before you try to renew to learn about there are any holds. Clearing the hold first will allow your renewal to go through.