Texas Department of Public Safety Issues All Driver's Licenses
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is the only agency that issues driver's licenses in Texas. You cannot get one from your city, county, or any private business — you must go through DPS, either in person at a driver's license office or online for certain transactions.
DPS operates around 130 driver's license offices across the state. Each office handles new licenses, renewals, replacements, and address changes. The office nearest you depends on where you live, and you can choose any office in Texas — you are not limited to your home county.
Some transactions can be completed online through the DPS website without visiting an office. Others require an in-person appointment. Knowing which route applies to you saves time and prevents wasted trips.
Key Takeaways
- The Texas Department of Public Safety operates all driver's license offices; find the one nearest you on their website at dps.texas.gov.
- You must make an appointment in advance at most offices — walk-ins are not accepted, and wait times for appointments can be weeks during busy seasons.
- Renewals by mail or online are available if your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and you meet other specific conditions.
- Bring your Social Security number, proof of Texas residency, proof of identity, and proof of lawful presence; requirements differ slightly for new licenses versus renewals.
- If you cannot visit an office in person, some counties offer mobile license units that travel to smaller towns on a set schedule.
Finding a DPS Driver's License Office Near You
Visit dps.texas.gov and use the office locator tool to find the office closest to your home or workplace. The tool shows the address, phone number, hours, and whether the office is currently accepting appointments. You can search by city name, ZIP code, or county.
Large cities like Houston, Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio have multiple offices. Rural areas may have only one office serving several counties. If the nearest office has a long wait for appointments, you can travel to any other DPS office in the state — there is no residency requirement for which office you use.
Some DPS offices are located inside other government buildings, such as county courthouses or tax assessor offices. The office locator will tell you the exact location and whether parking is available.
Making an Appointment Online or by Phone
Most DPS driver's license offices require an appointment. You can schedule one online through the DPS website or by calling the office directly. The phone number for your local office appears in the office locator tool.
Online appointments are usually available 1 to 4 weeks in advance, depending on how busy the office is. During peak times — summer months, around holidays, and after license expiration dates pass — appointments may be booked out 6 to 8 weeks. If no appointments are available at your preferred office, try offices in nearby cities or counties.
When you book an appointment, you will receive a confirmation with a date, time, and list of documents to bring. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. If you miss your appointment without canceling, you may have to wait longer for the next available slot.
What Documents You Need to Bring
Requirements depend on whether you are getting a new license, renewing, or replacing a lost one. All applicants must bring proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of lawful presence in the United States.
For a new license: Bring your birth certificate or passport (proof of identity), your Social Security card or a document showing your number, and a document proving you are a U.S. citizen or lawful resident — such as a passport, visa, or employment authorization document. You also need proof of Texas residency, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 30 days.
For a renewal: Bring your current or expired license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency if your address has changed. If your license has been lost or stolen, you will need a police report or affidavit in addition to the standard documents.
The DPS website has a complete checklist for each type of transaction. Review it before your appointment to avoid being turned away for missing documents.
Renewing by Mail or Online Without Visiting an Office
You may be able to renew your license without going to an office if you meet specific conditions. Your license must not be suspended or revoked, you cannot have medical restrictions, and you must have held your current license for at least 2 years without any violations or changes.
To renew by mail, request a renewal process from the DPS website or call your local office. Fill it out, include a new photo (passport-style, 2 by 2 inches), and mail it with the required fee. Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks by mail.
Online renewal is available through the DPS website if you meet the same conditions. You will need to upload a digital photo and pay the fee with a credit or debit card. Online renewals are processed faster than mail renewals — usually within 1 to 2 weeks.
If you do not meet the conditions for mail or online renewal, you must visit an office in person.
Mobile License Units and County Services
Some rural counties operate mobile DPS license units that travel to smaller towns on a rotating schedule. These units offer the same services as permanent offices — new licenses, renewals, and replacements. Check with your county clerk's office or the DPS website to see if a mobile unit serves your area and when it will be in your town.
A few counties also partner with local government offices to handle certain transactions, such as address changes or duplicate licenses. Call your county clerk or the nearest DPS office to ask whether this service is available where you live.
Fees and Payment Methods
Driver's license fees in Texas vary by license type and how long the license is valid. A standard five-year license costs less than an eight-year license. Commercial driver's licenses cost more than regular licenses.
DPS offices accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you renew by mail, include a check or money order — do not send cash. Online renewals require a credit or debit card.
Fees are set by state law and do not vary between offices. The DPS website lists the current fee for each license type.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Texas driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. A Social Security number is required by federal law for all driver's licenses. If you do not have one, you must explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a Texas license. You can explore for a Social Security number at your local Social Security office or online at ssa.gov.
What if I lost my license and need a replacement quickly?
Book an appointment as soon as possible — some offices have cancellations that open up a few days out. If you need to drive before your appointment, you can request a temporary paper license at the office, which is valid for 45 days while you wait for your replacement to arrive by mail. Bring a police report or affidavit stating your license was lost.
Do I need an appointment if I am renewing by mail or online?
No. Mail and online renewals do not require an appointment or a visit to an office. You complete the process from home and mail in your process or submit it through the DPS website.
What happens if I move to a different state while my Texas license is still valid?
Your Texas license remains valid until it expires. You do not have to surrender it. However, once you move, you should get a license from your new state within the time frame that state requires — usually 30 to 60 days after establishing residency.
Can someone else pick up my license for me if I cannot go to the office?
No. You must be present in person to receive your license. The office will not release it to another person, even with a power of attorney or written permission.