Documents and identification you'll bring to the DPS office

To get a Texas driver's license, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to your local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. Texas has a specific list of documents it accepts for each category, and you must bring originals or certified copies—photocopies alone will not work.

For identity, bring one document from the primary list: a U.S. passport, passport card, certified birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or a document issued by a federally recognized tribe. If you don't have any of those, you can use a combination of two secondary documents, such as a school ID, military discharge papers, or a marriage certificate. The document must show your name and either a photo or your date of birth.

For residency, bring a document showing your current Texas address dated within the last 30 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a letter from a government agency. A bank statement or insurance bill also works. If you've recently moved and don't have a document in your name yet, bring a letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead, signed and dated.

Proof of Social Security number

You must show your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a Social Security Administration letter. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can still get a license, but you'll need to complete an affidavit at the DPS office stating that you don't have one.

If your Social Security card is lost or damaged, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration before your DPS visit, but you don't have to—you can use a W-2 or other document instead. The DPS office will not issue a replacement card for you.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring an original or certified copy of your identity document (passport, birth certificate, or two secondary documents), a residency document dated within 30 days, and proof of your Social Security number.
  • Your residency document must show your current Texas address; a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement all work, and a landlord letter works if you just moved.
  • You must visit a DPS office in person to explore—you cannot renew or obtain a license online unless you already hold a valid Texas license.
  • Bring your completed DL-44 form (the process) or fill it out at the office, along with payment for the license fee, which varies by license type and validity period.
  • You will take a written test on traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test before the license is issued.

The written test, vision test, and driving test

Before you receive your license, you must pass three tests at the DPS office. The written test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Texas Driver Handbook, which is free on the DPS website. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 21 correctly to pass. You can take the test in English or Spanish.

The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. You'll read letters or numbers on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you may be required to get a corrective lens restriction on your license, or you may need to see an eye doctor and bring documentation before the DPS will issue your license.

The driving test takes place on a closed course or in light traffic near the DPS office. An examiner will watch you perform basic maneuvers: starting, stopping, turning, backing up, and parking. You must follow traffic laws and the examiner's instructions. If you fail, you can retake it, but you'll pay the test fee again.

Age requirements and parental consent

If you are 16 or 17 years old, you must have a parent or legal guardian present at the DPS office to sign your process. Bring their photo ID. You will receive a Learner License first, which allows you to drive only with a licensed adult in the front passenger seat. After holding the Learner License for at least six months and meeting other requirements, you can return to the DPS to upgrade to a Restricted License or Full License.

If you are 18 or older, you do not need parental consent. You can explore for a full driver's license directly.

Fees and license validity

The cost of a Texas driver's license depends on the type and how long it is valid. A standard license valid for five years costs one amount; a license valid for eight years costs more. You can also choose to renew for longer if you're may be able to access. The DPS office will tell you the exact fee when you arrive, as fees can change. Payment is typically by cash, check, or card.

Your license will be valid for the period you choose, after which you must renew. If your license expires, you cannot legally drive, and you'll need to reapply with the same documents and tests.

What to do if you have a name change or criminal history

If your name has changed since your identity document was issued—through marriage, divorce, or court order—bring the document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree. The DPS will update your name on your license.

If you have a criminal conviction, you may still be able to get a license. Texas law suspends or revokes licenses for certain offenses, particularly those involving driving under the influence or driving with a suspended license. Check the DPS website or call your local DPS office to find out whether your record affects your may be able to access. You can also visit the office in person and ask; staff can look up your driving record.

Where to go and what to bring on the day

Find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website. Some offices take walk-ins, but many require you to book an appointment online or by phone. Check your office's policy before you go. Bring all original documents or certified copies, your completed DL-44 form (or be ready to fill it out there), payment for the fee, and your Social Security card or alternative proof.

Arrive early and bring all documents in one place so you don't have to leave and come back. If you're under 18, bring your parent or guardian and their photo ID. The entire process—paperwork, tests, and photo—usually takes one to two hours, depending on how busy the office is.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Texas driver's license if I don't have a birth certificate?

Yes. If you don't have a birth certificate, you can use two secondary identity documents instead, such as a school ID and a military discharge paper, or a marriage certificate and a passport card. Both documents must show your name and either a photo or your date of birth.

What if I just moved to Texas and don't have a utility bill in my name yet?

Bring a signed and dated letter from your landlord or property manager on their letterhead stating your address and move-in date. This counts as proof of residency. A lease agreement in your name also works if you have one.

Do I have to take the driving test if I already have a valid license from another state?

No. If you hold a valid driver's license from another U.S. state, you can transfer it to Texas without taking the written or driving test. You still need to bring your identity, residency, and Social Security documents, pass the vision test, and pay the fee. Bring your out-of-state license with you.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day or schedule another appointment. You'll pay the test fee again each time you take it. Most people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the Texas Driver Handbook more carefully.

Can I renew my license online?

Only if you already hold a valid Texas driver's license and meet certain conditions, such as having no medical restrictions and not needing to update your photo. If you're getting a license for the first time, you must visit a DPS office in person.