Where to go and what you'll need

In Texas, you replace your driver's license at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. You cannot do this online or by mail — you must appear in person with documents that prove your identity and residency. The process takes about 15 minutes at the counter, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

You will need to bring your Social Security number (or a document showing it), proof of Texas residency dated within the last 90 days, and proof of identity. Acceptable residency documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement. For identity, bring a passport, military ID, or another government-issued photo ID. If you don't have a photo ID, you can bring two non-photo documents like a birth certificate and Social Security card.

The replacement fee is $16 for a standard license valid for five years. You can pay by cash, debit card, or credit card at most DPS offices. Some offices accept checks, but call ahead to confirm.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with proof of identity and Texas residency from the last 90 days.
  • The replacement fee is $16 and the new license is valid for five years from the issue date.
  • Wait times are shortest on weekday mornings and longest on Friday afternoons and Saturdays.
  • If your license was lost or stolen, you do not need to file a police report to replace it, though you may want to for your records.
  • Your new license will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days; you can drive with your receipt until it arrives.

Finding the nearest DPS office and checking hours

The DPS maintains an office locator on its website at dps.texas.gov. Enter your city or ZIP code to find the nearest office, see current hours, and check whether that location requires an appointment. As of now, most DPS offices operate on a walk-in basis, but some in high-traffic areas have shifted to appointment-only service. Calling ahead is the safest way to confirm.

Hours vary by location. Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some opening on Saturday mornings. A few rural offices have shorter hours or close for lunch. The DPS office locator shows the exact schedule for each location.

If you live in a small town without a DPS office nearby, you may be able to renew at a county tax assessor's office or a licensed driver's license service center. Not all counties offer this, so check the DPS website or call your county tax office to ask.

What happens if your license was lost or stolen

Replacing a lost or stolen license follows the same process and costs the same $16 fee. You do not need to file a police report with DPS, though you may want to file one with your local police department for your own records, especially if your wallet contained other cards or documents.

If your license was stolen and you're concerned about identity theft, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at no cost. This makes it harder for someone to open accounts in your name. You can do this online at annualcreditreport.com or by calling each bureau directly.

Replacing a license that expired or is about to expire

If your license expired within the last two years, you can replace it at a DPS office using the same process and fee as a lost or stolen license. If it expired more than two years ago, you will need to take the written knowledge test and vision test again, and the fee increases to $33. You will also need to provide a certified copy of your birth certificate or passport.

If your license is still valid but damaged (torn, faded, or unreadable), you can replace it at the standard $16 rate. Bring the damaged license with you so the DPS can see the condition.

Getting your replacement license before the new one arrives

When you complete your replacement at the DPS office, you receive a receipt that serves as a temporary driving permit. This receipt is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive legally while you wait for your new license to arrive by mail. Keep the receipt in your vehicle — police will accept it as proof of a valid license.

Your new license is mailed to the address you provide at the DPS office within 7 to 10 business days. If you move before it arrives, you can update your address online through the DPS website or call the DPS to request a remail to your new address. There is no additional charge for remailing.

Replacing a license with a different name or address

If you changed your name (through marriage, divorce, or legal change) or moved to a new address, you can update both when you replace your license. Bring documents that support the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. For an address change alone, your proof of residency serves as documentation.

If you also need to update your license class (for example, if you want to add a motorcycle endorsement), that requires additional testing and fees. The DPS office can explain what tests you need and schedule them during your visit or at a later date.

What to do if you have a commercial driver's license (CDL)

Replacing a CDL follows a different process than a standard license. You must visit a DPS office that handles CDL transactions — not all offices do. The DPS office locator will show which locations offer CDL services. You will need to pass a medical examination and provide a valid medical certificate, in addition to the standard identity and residency documents.

The replacement fee for a CDL is $33 and the license is valid for five years. If your CDL expired more than two years ago, you will need to retake the written and skills tests, which requires scheduling an appointment and paying additional fees. Call the DPS ahead of time to understand the full process for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online or by mail?

No. Texas requires you to appear in person at a DPS office with original documents. You cannot complete a replacement through the mail or online.

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

Most DPS offices accept walk-ins, but some high-traffic locations now require appointments. Check the DPS office locator or call ahead to confirm the policy at your nearest office.

What if I don't have a birth certificate or passport?

You can bring two non-photo identity documents instead, such as a Social Security card, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DPS staff can tell you which combinations they accept.

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

Your new license arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Your receipt is valid to drive during this time. If it doesn't arrive after 10 days, call the DPS to check the status.

What if I move before my new license arrives?

Contact the DPS online or by phone to update your address and request that your license be remailed to your new address. There is no charge for this service.