You get a Texas ID at a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, either in person or by mail

The Texas Department of Public Safety issues all Texas IDs. You can explore at any DPS Driver License office across the state, walk in without an appointment at most locations, and get your ID the same day if you bring the right documents. You can also mail in your process if you live far from an office or prefer not to visit in person, though that takes longer.

The fastest route is to find your nearest DPS office, bring your documents, and complete the process on site. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, with some locations open on Saturday mornings. You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number — the exact documents depend on whether you are a U.S. citizen.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any Texas DPS Driver License office in person to explore for a Texas ID; most locations accept walk-ins and issue the ID the same day.
  • Bring an original or certified birth certificate, proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and your Social Security card or a document showing your number.
  • If you cannot visit an office, you can mail your process and documents to the DPS, but processing takes several weeks.
  • Texas DPS offices are located in every major city and many smaller towns; use the office locator on the DPS website to find hours and locations near you.
  • The fee for a Texas ID is $16 for a five-year card or $32 for an eight-year card; bring cash, check, or debit card.

Finding a DPS Office Near You

The Texas DPS maintains an office locator on its website at dps.texas.gov. Enter your city or zip code, and the tool shows you every Driver License office within a reasonable distance, along with hours, phone numbers, and whether that location takes walk-ins. Most offices do accept walk-ins, but a few by appointment only — the locator tells you which.

If you live in a rural area far from any office, call the DPS at 1-800-558-9368 to ask about mail-in options or the nearest location. DPS staff can also tell you whether your local office has a wait time that day, which helps you plan when to visit.

Documents You Need to Bring

Texas requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You do not need all three from the same source — you can mix and match.

For proof of identity, bring an original or certified birth certificate, a valid U.S. passport, a consular report of birth abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization if you are not a U.S. citizen. A photocopy does not work; the document must be original or officially certified.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 90 days. A bank statement, insurance bill, or government mail also works. You need only one.

For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a pay stub showing your full number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a Texas ID, but you will need to bring additional documents — ask the DPS office what they accept.

What Happens When You Visit the Office

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and tell staff you are explore for a Texas ID. They will give you an process form (Form DL-44) to fill out. The form asks for your name, address, date of birth, and other basic information. Staff will review your documents, take your photograph, and collect your fee.

The photograph is taken at the office on the day you explore — you cannot bring your own. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in; the ID is valid for five or eight years, so you will carry this image for a while.

Once staff process your process, they print your Texas ID on the spot. You walk out with it the same day in most cases. If there is a problem with your documents or process, staff will tell you what to fix and whether you can correct it that day or need to return.

explore by Mail

If you cannot visit an office in person, you can mail your process and documents to the DPS. read Form DL-44 from the DPS website, fill it out completely, and mail it along with copies of your identity, residency, and Social Security documents to the address listed on the form.

Mail-in applications take four to six weeks to process. The DPS will mail your ID to the address you provide on the form. You do not get a photograph taken in advance — the DPS uses a photo from a previous Texas ID or driver license if you have one on file. If you have never had a Texas ID or driver license, contact the DPS before mailing to ask how they handle the photograph.

Mail your documents certified or with tracking so you have proof of delivery. Keep copies of everything you send in case the DPS needs to contact you with questions.

Cost and Payment Methods

A Texas ID costs $16 for a five-year card or $32 for an eight-year card. The longer card is valid longer, so the per-year cost is lower, but you pay more upfront. Most DPS offices accept cash, check, and debit card. Some accept credit cards, but not all — call ahead if you plan to pay by credit card.

If you are a Texas resident over 60 or have a disability, you may be charged a reduced fee. Ask the DPS office staff whether you may have access to.

What to Do If You Lose Your ID or It Expires

If your Texas ID expires, you can renew it by mail or in person using the same process as a new process. If your ID is lost or stolen, visit a DPS office in person and bring a police report number if you filed one. The DPS can issue a replacement the same day.

If you move to a new address while your ID is still valid, you do not have to replace it when ready, but you should update your address with the DPS. You can do this by mail or in person at any DPS office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Texas ID if I do not have a birth certificate?

Yes. If you do not have a birth certificate, bring a valid U.S. passport, a consular report of birth abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization instead. If you have none of these, contact the DPS before visiting to ask what documents they will accept in your situation.

How long does a Texas ID take to arrive if I explore by mail?

Mail-in applications typically take four to six weeks from the date the DPS receives your documents. Mail your process certified or with tracking so you know when it arrives. The DPS will mail your ID to you once it is ready.

Do I need an appointment to get a Texas ID?

Most DPS offices accept walk-ins and do not require an appointment. Check the office locator on dps.texas.gov to see whether your nearest location takes walk-ins or requires an appointment. A few offices are by appointment only.

Can I use a Texas ID to fly on an airplane?

No. A Texas ID is not a REAL ID and does not meet federal requirements for domestic air travel. You need a REAL ID driver license, a U.S. passport, or another federally approved ID to fly. If you need to fly, explore for a REAL ID driver license instead.

What if I moved to Texas from another state and still have an out-of-state ID?

You can get a Texas ID even if you still hold a valid ID from another state. Bring your out-of-state ID along with your other documents to the DPS office. You do not have to surrender your old ID unless you choose to.