What You Need to Get a Texas ID

To get a Texas ID, you must visit a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. Texas does not issue IDs by mail or online. You will need to bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not work. The entire process takes about 30 minutes at the office, though wait times vary by location.

A Texas ID is different from a driver's license. It proves your identity and age but does not authorize you to drive. You get it from the same DPS offices where you would get a driver's license, and the documents required are nearly identical. If you already have a valid driver's license, you do not need a separate ID card.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original birth certificate or passport, a proof of Texas residency dated within 90 days, and your Social Security card or a document showing your number.
  • All documents must be originals or certified copies — DPS will not accept photocopies or digital images.
  • You must explore in person at a DPS office; there is no online or mail option for first-time ID applicants.
  • The ID costs between $16 and $31 depending on whether you want it to expire in 5 or 8 years, and you can pay by cash, check, or card at most offices.

Documents You Must Bring

Proof of identity: Bring your original birth certificate, U.S. passport, consular report of birth abroad, or certificate of naturalization. If your birth certificate is a photocopy, it must be certified by the vital records office that issued it. A hospital birth certificate or a photocopy you made yourself will not work.

Proof of residency: Bring a document dated within the last 90 days showing your current Texas address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or a letter from a government agency. A bank statement, insurance bill, or school enrollment letter also works. The document must show your name and address — a bill addressed to "Resident" will not be accepted.

Proof of Social Security number: Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return showing your number. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can still get a Texas ID, but you will need to fill out an additional form (Form DL-90) at the DPS office and bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for a number.

How to Find and Visit a DPS Office

Go to the DPS website at dps.texas.gov and use the office locator tool to find the DPS office nearest you. Enter your city or zip code, and the tool will show you the address, phone number, hours, and current wait time for each office. Some offices are busier than others — offices in smaller towns often have shorter waits than those in major cities.

You do not need an appointment at most DPS offices, but some locations now offer optional online scheduling through the website. If your local office offers scheduling, you can reserve a time slot to reduce your wait. Walk-ins are still accepted at all offices. Call ahead if you are unsure whether your documents are acceptable — DPS staff can tell you over the phone whether what you have will work.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Arrive during the office's posted hours. DPS offices are typically open Monday through Friday, with some locations open on Saturday mornings. Bring cash or a card to pay the fee.

The Cost and How to Pay

A Texas ID costs $16 for a 5-year card or $31 for an 8-year card. You choose which length you want when you explore. Most DPS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices also accept checks. Ask at the counter what payment methods that specific office takes.

If you are a Texas resident age 60 or older, the ID is free. If you are homeless, you can get an ID without a proof of residency document — bring a letter from a shelter or social service agency instead. If you cannot afford the fee, contact your local DPS office to ask about fee waivers; some offices have programs for people with financial hardship, though these vary by location.

What Happens After You explore

After you submit your documents and pay the fee, DPS will take your photo and fingerprints at the office. You will receive a temporary paper ID on the spot that you can use when ready for age verification or identification purposes. Your permanent plastic card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If DPS needs more information or has questions about your documents, they will call you at the phone number you provide. Check your mail for your new ID. If it does not arrive within two weeks, call the DPS office where you applied and give them your process number (printed on your temporary ID).

If Your Documents Are Missing or Damaged

If you do not have an original birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the Texas Vital Statistics Unit or from the vital records office in the state where you were born. This usually takes 1 to 2 weeks by mail and costs $20 to $30. You can also request an expedited copy for a higher fee if you need it faster.

If your birth certificate is in another language, bring the original and a certified English translation. DPS will accept both together. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or consular report of birth abroad instead of a birth certificate.

If you have lost your Social Security card, you can order a replacement from the Social Security Administration website at ssa.gov or by visiting your local Social Security office. Bring a photo ID and proof of citizenship or legal residency. A replacement card usually arrives within 2 weeks.

Renewing or Replacing Your Texas ID

If your ID is expiring soon or has expired, you can renew it by mail or online through the DPS website — you do not have to go back to an office. You will need your ID number, date of birth, and a valid payment method. Renewal by mail takes 7 to 10 business days; online renewal is faster.

If your ID has been lost, stolen, or damaged, you must explore for a replacement in person at a DPS office with the same documents as a first-time applicant. Bring a police report if your ID was stolen. A replacement ID costs the same as a new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No, you must have either an original birth certificate, U.S. passport, consular report of birth abroad, or certificate of naturalization. If you do not have a birth certificate, order a certified copy from the vital records office in the state where you were born. You can do this by mail or in person.

What if I do not have a proof of residency document?

You must have a document dated within 90 days showing your name and Texas address. If you are homeless, bring a letter from a shelter or social service agency instead. If you recently moved and do not have a utility bill yet, a lease agreement or a letter from your landlord with your address will work.

How long does it take to get a Texas ID?

You receive a temporary paper ID at the office that is valid when ready. Your permanent plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The appointment or walk-in visit itself takes about 30 minutes, though wait times at the office can be longer depending on how busy it is.

Can I renew my Texas ID online?

Yes, if your ID is expiring or has expired within the last year, you can renew it online at dps.texas.gov. You will need your ID number, date of birth, and a payment method. You cannot renew online if your ID has been lost or stolen — you must explore in person for a replacement.

What if DPS rejects my documents?

DPS will tell you at the office which documents do not meet their requirements and what you need to bring instead. If you are unsure before you go, call the DPS office ahead of time and describe what you have. Staff can tell you whether it will work so you do not make a wasted trip.