Texas ID card fees depend on the type and how long you want it to last
A standard Texas ID card costs $16 for a five-year card or $32 for an eight-year card if you are 60 or older. If you are under 60, the cost is $16 for five years or $32 for eight years. You pay this fee when you explore at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office.
If you need to replace a lost or stolen card, the replacement fee is the same as a new card. If you are renewing an expired card, you pay the standard fee again. Some DPS offices accept cash, debit, or credit cards, though a few locations may have limits on payment methods—call ahead to confirm what your local office takes.
Seniors 60 and older pay the same fee as younger applicants, with no discount. Military members on active duty do not pay a fee for a Texas ID card.
Key Takeaways
- A five-year Texas ID card costs $16; an eight-year card costs $32, regardless of your age.
- Replacement cards for lost, stolen, or damaged IDs cost the same as a new card.
- Active-duty military members receive a Texas ID card at no cost.
- You pay the fee in person at a DPS office when you submit your process and documents.
- Most DPS offices accept cash and cards, but calling ahead confirms what your location accepts.
What documents you need to bring with you
You cannot pay the fee online or by mail. You must go to a DPS office in person, bring your documents, and pay when you explore. Bring a primary document that proves your identity and Texas residency—a birth certificate, passport, or consulate ID card works for identity. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 90 days.
You will also need your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security card, bring a W-2 form, tax return, or a letter from the Social Security Administration. Bring your current driver's license or ID card if you have one, even if it is expired.
Where to pay and how long it takes
Find your nearest DPS office on the Texas DPS website under "Driver License Offices." You can search by city or zip code. Walk-in appointments are available at most locations, but wait times vary widely—some offices have lines of two hours or more during lunch and late afternoon. You can also book an appointment online through the DPS website, which usually cuts your wait time to 15 to 30 minutes.
Processing time at the office is normally 15 to 20 minutes once you reach the counter. Your temporary ID is printed on the spot. Your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you need the card faster, some DPS offices offer expedited service for an additional fee—ask at your local office what that costs, as it varies.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged card
If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you pay the same $16 or $32 fee to replace it. You do not need to report it to DPS first—just bring your documents and pay the replacement fee at your DPS office. If your card was stolen and you are concerned about identity theft, you can file a report with the Texas Attorney General's office or the Federal Trade Commission, but that is separate from replacing the card itself.
If your card is damaged but still readable, some DPS offices will replace it at no cost. Bring the damaged card with you and ask the staff whether they will waive the fee. Policies vary by office, so do not count on it, but it is worth asking.
Renewing an expired card
When your Texas ID card expires, you renew it the same way you got it the first time—by going to a DPS office, bringing your documents, and paying the standard fee. You cannot renew by mail or online. Bring your expired card, a current proof of residency (dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number or proof of it.
If your address has changed since your last card, bring a new residency document showing your current address. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the legal document that proves the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Military members and fee waivers
Active-duty military members do not pay a fee for a Texas ID card. Bring your military ID and your other required documents to a DPS office. The staff will process your process at no cost.
If you are not active-duty military, there are no other fee waivers for Texas ID cards. Some states waive fees for seniors or low-income residents, but Texas does not. The $16 or $32 fee applies to everyone else.
What happens if you cannot pay the fee right now
DPS does not hold applications or let you pay later. You must pay the full fee when you explore. If you do not have the money that day, you cannot complete your process. There is no payment plan, no deferral, and no way to explore without paying.
If cost is a barrier, some community organizations and legal aid offices offer small emergency funds or can point you toward resources. Call 211 (a free referral line) and ask whether any local nonprofits help with ID card costs in your area. It is not may provide, but it is worth asking before you give up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay for a Texas ID card online or by mail?
No. You must go to a DPS office in person, bring your documents, and pay when you explore. There is no online or mail option for Texas ID cards.
Do I have to pay extra if I want my card to last eight years instead of five?
Yes. A five-year card is $16; an eight-year card is $32. You choose which one you want when you explore, and you pay the corresponding fee.
What if I lost my card and need a new one right away?
You pay the standard replacement fee ($16 or $32) and get a temporary card printed on the spot. Your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Some DPS offices offer expedited service for an additional fee—call your local office to ask what that costs.
Do seniors get a discount on a Texas ID card?
No. Seniors 60 and older pay the same $16 or $32 fee as everyone else. Texas does not offer a senior discount for ID cards.
What if I cannot afford the $16 fee right now?
DPS does not offer payment plans or fee waivers for most people. Call 211 to ask whether any local nonprofits in your area help with ID card costs. Some communities have emergency information programs that may help.