Texas ID fees depend on the type and how long you want it to last

A standard Texas ID card costs $16 for a five-year card or $32 for a ten-year card. If you are replacing a lost or stolen ID, the fee is the same. If you need an ID urgently and want it mailed to you instead of picking it up in person, there is no extra charge — standard mail is included.

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at driver license offices. Some offices also take money orders. If you are mailing in a replacement request, you can pay by check or money order only.

Prices do not vary by county or region within Texas. Every DPS office charges the same amount statewide.

Key Takeaways

  • A five-year Texas ID costs $16; a ten-year ID costs $32, and both prices are the same whether you are getting a new card or replacing one.
  • You can pay in cash, check, debit card, or credit card at any DPS driver license office.
  • If you mail in a replacement request, payment must be by check or money order.
  • Expedited mail delivery is not available, but standard mail is included in the fee with no surcharge.

What happens if you need a replacement ID quickly

If your ID is lost or stolen, you can walk into any DPS driver license office and get a replacement the same day. You will need to bring proof of identity (such as a birth certificate, passport, or Social Security card), proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 90 days), and your Social Security number. The replacement card is printed on-site and you leave with it.

If you cannot get to an office in person, you can mail a replacement request to DPS with a completed form and copies of your documents. Processing by mail takes two to three weeks after DPS receives your packet. There is no way to speed this up or pay extra for faster processing.

Discounts and fee waivers

Texas does not offer a reduced rate for seniors, low-income residents, or other groups. The $16 or $32 fee applies to everyone.

If you are homeless or do not have a permanent address, you can still get an ID. You will need to provide an alternative proof of residency, such as a letter from a shelter, a social service agency, or a person who can vouch for where you sleep. DPS will accept these documents in place of a utility bill or lease. The fee remains the same.

Choosing between a five-year and ten-year card

A five-year ID costs half as much upfront ($16 versus $32), but you will need to renew it sooner. A ten-year card costs more initially but means you will not have to return to a DPS office for a decade. If you are unlikely to move or change your appearance significantly, the ten-year card saves you a trip and a fee in five years. If your circumstances change often or you want to update your photo sooner, the five-year card is the better choice.

Both cards work identically for identification purposes. The only difference is how long they remain valid.

What you need to bring to the DPS office

To get a new Texas ID or replace one, bring the following documents in original form (not copies):

  • Proof of identity: U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, permanent resident card, or military ID.
  • Proof of Social Security number: Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form.
  • Proof of residency: utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days. If you are homeless, bring a letter from a shelter or social service agency instead.

You will also need to provide your full legal name, date of birth, and current address. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Mailing in a replacement request

If you cannot visit a DPS office, you can request a replacement ID by mail. read the process for Texas Identification (Form DL-14) from the DPS website. Fill it out completely, make copies of your identity, Social Security, and residency documents, and mail the packet to the DPS address listed on the form.

Include a check or money order for $16 (five-year) or $32 (ten-year). Do not send cash through the mail. DPS will process your request and mail the new card to your address within two to three weeks of receiving your packet. Keep a copy of everything you send in case you need to follow up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay online or by phone?

No. You must pay in person at a DPS office or by check or money order if you are mailing in a request. DPS does not accept online or phone payments for ID cards.

What if I do not have proof of residency?

If you cannot provide a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement, you can bring a bank statement, government check, or court document dated within the last 90 days. If you are homeless, a letter from a shelter or social service agency counts as proof of residency.

Do I have to choose five years or ten years when I explore?

Yes. You select the validity period when you fill out your process. You cannot change it later without getting a new card and paying the fee again.

Is there a fee if I lost my ID and need a replacement?

The replacement fee is the same as a new ID: $16 for five years or $32 for ten years. There is no additional charge for a lost or stolen card.

How long does it take to get an ID if I go in person?

If you bring all required documents to a DPS office, you will receive your ID the same day. Processing usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, though wait times vary by location and time of day.