You can get a Texas driver's license at any Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, also called a Driver License Division office

Texas has 124 DPS offices statewide where you can explore for a new driver's license. These are the only places that issue licenses in Texas — you cannot explore by mail, online, or through a third party. Each office handles the same process process and accepts the same documents, but wait times and hours vary by location.

The DPS office is where you will take your written test, vision test, and photo. You will also pay your license fee there. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have extended hours or Saturday appointments. You should plan to spend 30 minutes to two hours at the office, depending on how busy it is.

Key Takeaways

  • All Texas driver's licenses are issued only at DPS Driver License Division offices; there is no online or mail option.
  • You can find your nearest DPS office and check wait times on the Texas DPS website before you go.
  • Bring all required documents in original form — copies are not accepted for identity or residency proof.
  • Most offices operate Monday through Friday, but hours vary; some offer Saturday appointments that you must book in advance.
  • You will take your written test, vision test, and photo at the DPS office on the same day you explore.

Finding a DPS office near you

The Texas DPS website has a searchable office locator tool at dps.texas.gov. You can search by city, county, or ZIP code to find the nearest location. The locator shows the office address, phone number, hours of operation, and whether the office takes walk-ins or requires an appointment.

Some DPS offices accept walk-ins during all hours, while others require you to book an appointment online or by phone. The office locator tells you which type yours is. If your office requires an appointment, you can book one through the DPS website or by calling the office directly. Appointment slots fill up quickly in busy areas, so book as soon as you know you are ready to explore.

Wait times vary widely. Urban offices in Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio often have longer waits than rural offices. The DPS website shows estimated wait times for each location, updated throughout the day. If your nearest office has a long wait, you may save time by driving to a less busy office in a nearby town.

What documents to bring to the DPS office

You must bring original documents — photocopies are not accepted. The DPS will not accept documents that are expired, altered, or damaged. Bring your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get bent or lost while you wait.

You will need proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The exact documents depend on your situation. If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person at the office. If you are 18 or older, you can explore alone.

Bring your current out-of-state driver's license if you have one. The DPS will keep it and send it to the other state to be cancelled. If you do not have a current license, bring a second form of identity such as a passport or military ID card.

The process and testing process at the DPS office

When you arrive at the DPS office, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. You will wait until your number is called. A DPS employee will review your documents, answer questions about your process, and take your photo. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.

After your documents are reviewed, you will take the written knowledge test on a computer. The test has 30 questions about Texas traffic laws and safe driving. You must answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass. If you fail, you can take the test again the same day or come back another day. There is no extra fee to retake the test.

Next, you will take a vision test. The DPS will check your eyesight using a machine. If you wear glasses or contacts, wear them to the office. If you fail the vision test, you cannot get a license that day and will need to see an eye doctor.

After you pass both tests, you will pay the license fee and receive a temporary paper license. Your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for the permanent one.

License fees and payment methods

A Texas driver's license costs $16 for a four-year license or $32 for an eight-year license. You can choose which length you want when you explore. The DPS accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may not accept checks.

If you are renewing a license you already had, the fee is the same. If you are getting a license for the first time, you still pay the standard fee — there is no extra charge for first-time applicants.

Special situations: Under 18, military, or out-of-state

If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must go to the DPS office with you and sign your process in person. You cannot explore with a notarized signature or power of attorney. The parent or guardian must bring their own ID.

If you are active military or a military dependent stationed in Texas, you may be able to use a military ID as proof of residency. Bring your military ID and a military housing document or leave and earnings statement. Call your local DPS office to confirm they accept military documents before you go.

If you are moving to Texas from another state, you must get a Texas license within 60 days of establishing residency. You can explore at any DPS office once you have proof of Texas residency, such as a lease, utility bill, or bank statement showing your Texas address.

What to do if you cannot visit an office in person

Texas does not offer online driver's license applications or mail-in renewals for first-time licenses. You must appear in person at a DPS office. There is no exception to this rule.

If you have a disability or medical condition that makes it difficult to visit an office, call the DPS at 1-844-DPS-5555 to ask about accommodations. The DPS may be able to schedule you at a time with shorter waits or provide a private testing area. Some offices have accessible parking and facilities for people with mobility issues.

If you are out of state and cannot travel to Texas, you cannot get a Texas license until you move to Texas and establish residency. You will need to use your current out-of-state license or ID until then.

Common mistakes to avoid at the DPS office

Bringing copies instead of originals is the most common reason applications are rejected. The DPS will not accept a photocopy of your birth certificate, Social Security card, or proof of residency. Bring the original documents.

Bringing expired documents is another frequent problem. Your identity document must be current. If your passport or military ID is expired, bring a different form of ID instead.

Forgetting to bring all required documents means you will have to leave and come back another day. Before you go to the office, check the DPS website to confirm which documents you need for your situation. Make a checklist and verify you have everything before you leave home.

If you are under 18, arriving without a parent or guardian will stop your process. You cannot proceed without a parent or legal guardian present to sign. If you show up alone, you will need to reschedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make an appointment online or do I have to call the DPS office?

Most DPS offices let you book appointments online through the Texas DPS website. Some offices still require you to call. The office locator tool tells you which method your office uses. If your office requires a phone appointment, call the number listed in the locator.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day at no extra cost. If you prefer to study more, you can leave and come back another day to retake it. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test, but you must pass before you can get your license.

How long does it take to get my permanent license in the mail?

Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within two to three weeks of your process. You will receive a temporary paper license the same day you explore, and it is valid for driving while you wait. If you do not receive your license within four weeks, call the DPS office where you applied.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

It depends on your office. The DPS office locator shows whether your location takes walk-ins or requires appointments. If appointments are required and you walk in without one, you will be turned away. Book ahead if your office requires it.

What if I move after I get my Texas license?

If you move within Texas, you do not need a new license. Your license is valid statewide. If you move out of Texas, you should get a license in your new state within the time that state requires. You can keep your Texas license as ID, but you cannot drive with it in another state.