Texas ID Card Fees

A standard Texas ID card costs $16 for a five-year card or $32 for an eight-year card. You pay this fee when you explore at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. The fee covers the card itself and the background check that happens during processing.

If you need to replace a lost or stolen card, the replacement fee is the same as a new card — $16 or $32 depending on which validity period you choose. You cannot pay online; payment happens in person at the DPS office where you submit your process.

Some DPS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. A few locations may accept checks, but calling ahead to confirm payment methods at your specific office is wise. There are no additional processing fees or hidden charges beyond the card cost itself.

Key Takeaways

  • A five-year Texas ID card costs $16, and an eight-year card costs $32, paid in person at a DPS office.
  • Replacement cards for lost or stolen IDs cost the same amount as a new card.
  • You cannot pay the fee online or by mail — payment happens only when you appear at the DPS office with your documents.
  • Most DPS offices accept cash and cards, but calling ahead confirms what your local office takes.

What Documents You Need to Bring

Bring proof of identity, proof of Texas residency, and proof of Social Security number. A driver's license counts as proof of identity. If you do not have a driver's license, bring a passport, military ID, or birth certificate instead.

For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your current address. A document dated within the last 60 days works best. For Social Security, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or a tax return.

You will also fill out an process form (DL 101) at the DPS office. Bring the original documents, not photocopies — staff will verify them and return them to you. If any document is in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation as well.

Where to Pay and How Long It Takes

You pay at any Texas DPS office when you submit your process in person. Find your nearest office on the DPS website by entering your zip code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have Saturday hours.

Processing time is usually 7 to 10 business days after you explore. Your card will be mailed to the address you provide on your process. You will receive a temporary paper ID at the office that you can use while waiting for the card to arrive.

If you need the card faster, some DPS offices offer expedited service for an additional fee, though this varies by location. Call your local office to ask whether expedited processing is available and what it costs.

ID Card Validity and Renewal

A five-year card is valid from the issue date until five years later. An eight-year card is valid for eight years. You can renew your card before it expires by returning to a DPS office and paying the renewal fee — the same $16 or $32 you paid for the original.

If your card expires, you can still renew it after the expiration date, though an expired ID cannot be used as proof of identity for most purposes. Renewing before expiration keeps your ID valid without interruption.

You do not have to renew in person if your information has not changed. Some renewals can be done by mail, though you will need to check with DPS about whether your situation qualifies for mail renewal.

When You Might Pay More

If you request a duplicate card while your original is still valid, you pay the full card fee again. This is different from a replacement, which is for a lost or stolen card.

If you need your card sooner than the standard 7 to 10 business days, expedited processing adds to the cost. The amount varies by DPS office, so call ahead to learn what your location charges.

If your documents are not in English, you may need to pay for a certified translation service before you explore. This cost is separate from the DPS fee and depends on which translation service you use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay the ID card fee online?

No. You must pay in person at a DPS office when you submit your process. Payment cannot be made online, by phone, or by mail.

What if I do not have a Social Security number?

You need a Social Security number to get a Texas ID card. If you do not have one, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a state ID.

Is there a fee if I change my name or address on my ID?

A name or address change requires a new card, so you pay the standard fee — $16 or $32. Bring proof of the name change (marriage certificate, court order) or residency change (utility bill, lease) along with your original documents.

Do seniors or disabled people pay less for a Texas ID card?

Texas does not offer a reduced fee for seniors or people with disabilities. The cost is $16 or $32 regardless of age or status. However, some DPS offices may offer accommodations for people who have difficulty traveling or standing in line — call ahead to ask.

What happens if I lose my ID card after I pay for it?

You pay the replacement fee again — $16 or $32 — to get a new card. Report the lost card to DPS if you are concerned about identity theft, though this does not waive the replacement fee.