What documents and information you'll need before you start
To renew your Texas driver's license, you need to bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of identity to a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. If your current license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, you can renew by mail or online without visiting an office — but you'll still need to have these documents ready to verify your information.
The specific documents depend on whether you're renewing in person, by mail, or online. All three routes require you to confirm your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address. If any of that information has changed since your last license, you'll need to bring documentation of the change.
Key Takeaways
- Your current Texas driver's license, proof of residency, and proof of identity are the core documents needed for any renewal method.
- If your license expired less than two years ago, you can renew by mail or online without visiting a DPS office.
- Address changes require a separate document showing your new address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement dated within the last 90 days.
- Name changes require a certified copy of the document that changed your name, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
- In-person renewals at a DPS office typically take 15 to 30 minutes, while mail renewals take two to three weeks.
Proof of identity documents that DPS accepts
DPS accepts a long list of identity documents. Your current Texas driver's license counts as proof of identity on its own. If you don't have it or it's been lost, you can use a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a tribal ID card, or a certified birth certificate. You can also use a foreign passport if you have a valid U.S. visa.
If you're using a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or embossed stamp — a photocopy or printout won't work. The same rule applies to any other vital record. If you're unsure whether your document will be accepted, call your local DPS office before you go; the phone number is on the DPS website under "Find a DPS Office."
Proof of residency: what counts and what doesn't
Proof of residency must show your current Texas address and be dated within the last 90 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a property tax bill all work. Insurance statements, bank statements, and government mail also count if they show your address.
A few documents don't count: a driver's license or ID card (even from another state), a post office box, a cell phone bill, or anything that shows only a business address. If you've recently moved and don't have a document dated within the last 90 days yet, you can use two documents that together show your move — for example, an old utility bill from your previous address and a lease agreement for your new one.
Renewing by mail: documents and timeline
Mail renewal is available only if your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago. You'll mail your current license, a completed process for Texas Driver License or ID (Form DL-43), and a photocopy of your proof of residency to the DPS address listed on the form. You do not need to send proof of identity if you're mailing your current license — DPS already has your information on file.
Processing takes two to three weeks from the day DPS receives your envelope. You can track your process on the DPS website using your driver's license number. Your new license will arrive by mail. If you need your license sooner, you'll have to renew in person at a DPS office instead.
Renewing online: may be able to access and what you'll submit
Online renewal through the DPS website is the fastest option if you're may be able to access. You can renew online if your license is still valid, expired less than two years ago, and you have a valid email address on file. You'll log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, then answer questions to confirm your information.
You won't upload documents online — DPS verifies your identity using information already in their system. Once you complete the online form, you'll pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card. Your new license ships within five to seven business days. If your address has changed, you'll need to update it in the online form before you submit.
Renewing in person at a DPS office
In-person renewal is required if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you need to change your name or address, or if you prefer to renew face-to-face. Bring your current license (or proof of identity if your license is lost), proof of residency, and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If your name or address has changed, bring the document that proves the change.
Visit a DPS office during business hours — most are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours. You do not need an appointment. The process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll pay the renewal fee at the office, and your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives.
Name and address changes during renewal
If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that changed it: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or adoption decree. A photocopy won't work — it must be an official certified copy with a raised seal. If you're renewing by mail, photocopy the certified document and mail it with your process.
Address changes are simpler. If you're renewing in person or by mail, include your proof of residency showing your new address. If you're renewing online, update your address in the form before you submit. You do not need a separate document to prove an address change — your proof of residency serves that purpose.
Renewal fees and what happens if your license is suspended
The renewal fee for a standard five-year driver's license is $25. If you want a Real ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic flights), the fee is $27. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card depending on your renewal method. Mail and online renewals accept card payments only.
If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it. You'll need to contact DPS to find out why it was suspended and what steps are required to restore it. Call the DPS Customer Service line at 1-888-589-6556 to speak with someone about your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it expired more than two years ago?
No, mail and online renewal are not available. You must renew in person at a DPS office. Bring your expired license, proof of identity, and proof of residency. The office staff will process your renewal the same way they would for a current license.
What if I've moved and don't have a utility bill dated in the last 90 days?
Use two documents together: your old utility bill from your previous address and a lease agreement or mortgage statement for your new address. DPS will accept this combination as proof that you've moved and currently live at the new address.
Do I need to take a new photo for my renewal?
Not for mail or online renewal — DPS uses your photo from your current license. If you renew in person, the office will take a new photo. If you want a new photo for a mail or online renewal, you'll have to renew in person instead.
How long can I drive on my old license while I wait for the new one?
You can drive on your current license until your new one arrives, even if it's expired. Once your new license arrives in the mail, your old one is no longer valid. If you renewed online or by mail and need to drive before your new license arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at a DPS office.
What if my Social Security number or date of birth is wrong on my current license?
You must correct this in person at a DPS office. Bring your current license, proof of identity, and a document showing the correct information, such as your Social Security card or birth certificate. The office will issue a corrected license during your visit.