Are you looking to get your driver's license in Texas? Before showing up at your local Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, be sure you have everything you need so you don't have to make multiple trips. Here's a list of the documents you should prepare, but this can vary depending on your situation. Plus, learn what to expect at your appointment and how you can meet the driver's education requirements online.
What Documents Do You Need to Get a Texas Driver's License?
Before heading in to get your license, all applicants will need the following documents:
A completed application for an Original Texas Driver License or Identification Card.
Proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, SSA-1099 form, paystub, W-2, etc.).
Proof of your identity (Texas driver's license or ID within two years of expiration, U.S. citizenship certificate, foreign passport, unexpired passport, unexpired military photo ID card, etc.).
Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the country (birth certificate or birth record, U.S. passport, permanent resident card, Employment Authorization Card, I-94, US Travel Document, etc.).
Proof of residency (mortgage, current deed, monthly mortgage statement, utility bill within 90 days, homeowners or renters insurance policy or statement, medical or health card, concealed handgun license, current year W-2 or 1099 form, etc.).
New residents: Proof of insurance and ownership for any vehicle you own (evidence of financial responsibility and Texas vehicle registration.
To see a full list of all of the documents you can bring to meet each requirement, see this resource provided by the Texas DPS. Keep in mind that all of your documents will need to show the same name and date of birth, or you'll need supporting documents to show the reasons for any variances.
Additional Documents for Applicants Taking the Driving Test
If you need to take a driving skills test, you'll need to bring the above plus the following:
Proof of completing the Impact Texas Driver (ITD) program
Proof of completing a six-hour Driver Education Course (for those 18 to 24 years old who aren't surrendering a valid out-of-state driver license)
Additional Documents for Teen Drivers
On the other hand, if you're a teen driver under the age of 18, you'll need to provide the following:
Texas Driver Education Certificate (DE-964 or DE-964E)
Proof of enrollment in school, a high school diploma, or a GED
Evidence of passing the driver knowledge exam
In addition to bringing the documents that apply to you, also be prepared to pay an issuance fee.
How to Apply for a Texas Driver's License With Your Documents
Now that you know all the documents you'll need, how do you apply for a Texas driver's license? First, complete the application. Then, schedule an appointment at your local driver's license office. On your appointment date, show up with all your documents and pay the application fee. As part of the application, you'll also need to provide your fingerprints, pass a vision exam, and have your picture taken. You may also need to take and pass the knowledge and/or driving tests.
How Much Does a Driver's License Cost in Texas?
The cost of a Texas driver's license depends on your age. If you're under 18, it's $16 and expires on your 18th birthday. If you're 18 to 84 years old, it's $33 and expires after eight years. If you're over 84, it's $9 and expires after two years.
Complete the Texas Driver's Education Requirement Online!
For many drivers aged 16 to 24, a state-approved driver's education course must be completed to get your Texas driver's license. Luckily, you don't have to sit in a stuffy classroom. Instead, you can complete the program online with I Drive Safely. Learn all you need to know when and where it works best for you!
Get started with I Drive Safely's Texas-approved online driver's ed course!
