Section 1: Applying for or Renewing a Driver License, Identification Card, or Commercial Driver License

Yes.  First-time applicants and out-of-state transfers must visit a driver license office in person. The Department offers all in-office driver license and identification card services by appointment only. Appointments may be scheduled through Texas Scheduler up to 180 days in advance.

Prepare for your first Texas driver license or identification card by utilizing the REAL ID Checklist. This interactive tool assists in identifying all the required documents to take to the Driver License office. For more information, visit these resources:

How to apply for a Texas Driver License

What to bring with you when applying for a Texas Driver License or Identification Card 

How do I apply for a Commercial Driver License

Driver license services are available by appointment only.  Appointments may be scheduled through Texas Scheduler up to 180 days in advance.

If an office visit is necessary for a first-time application or ineligibly for online renewal, the best time to visit a driver license office is midweek (Wednesdays and Thursdays) during midday.  This timing helps avoid the high traffic typically experienced on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays.  Also, try to avoid peak periods such as spring break, summer months, and the days following major holidays.  To avoid an in-person visit, verify your eligibility for online renewal at License Eligibility.  Additional information is available at: 

How to renew your Texas Driver License, Motorcycle License or Identification card 

You may be eligible for an online renewal if you meet specific eligibility criteria and did not complete your last renewal online.  Verify your eligibility for online renewal at License Eligibility.  Additional information is available at:

How to renew your Texas Driver License, Motorcycle License or Identification card 

Most driver licenses and identification cards can be renewed up to two years before and after the expiration date. The options to renew your driver license or identification card are:

• Online
• By Telephone
• By Mail, or
• In-person at your local driver license office

Additional information is available at:

How to renew your Texas Driver License, Motorcycle License or Identification card.

Several factors could prevent an online renewal:

• Age: Individuals 79 or older must renew in person, you must be 78 or younger to renew online.
• License Status:  Your license must be valid (not suspended, revoked, canceled, denied, or disqualified) and have no outstanding warrants or unpaid traffic citations.
• License Type:  Certain license types are not eligible for online renewals, including:
  • Commercial Driver Licenses with a hazardous material (HAZMAT) endorsement.
  • Limited Term or Non-Domicile licenses.
  • Learner licenses and some Provisional licenses
• Documentation: You will be required to visit a driver license office if your U.S. citizenship or lawful presence documentation must be verified to comply with the REAL ID program.

Additional information is available at:

 Online Renewal Eligibility Requirements.

To simplify your renewal process, complete the What to bring with you when renewing a Texas Driver License or Identification Card (DR-32) checklist and gather the documents required.

The Department offers all in-office driver license and identification card services by appointment only. Appointments may be scheduled through Texas Scheduler up to 180 days in advance.

With some exceptions, driver licenses and identification cards can be renewed up to two years in advance.  

Additional information is available at:

How to renew your Texas Driver License, Motorcycle License or Identification card

To check the mailing status of your card, visit our webpage Where's my driver license or ID card?

Please visit our webpage on How to Renew or Replace your DL or ID while you are out-of-state for information on how to renew while you are not in Texas.

Your photograph is one of the forms of authentication we use to prevent identification fraud.  We use an image verification process governed by Texas Transportation Code, Section 521.059.

Texas Transportation Code, Sections 521.101(d) and 521.142(g) require the Department to collect an applicant's social security number for the issuance of a driver license or identification card.  The collection of this information assists with verifying your identity and preventing identity fraud.

You can handle your driver license or identification card needs at any driver license office.  Before you go, you should know that driver license services are available strictly by appointment with limited walk-in appointments available at some offices.  Appointments can be scheduled up to 180 days in advance through Texas Scheduler, allowing you to book the specific service you require and avoid waiting in line.

If you need to replace or renew your driver license or identification card, you may be eligible to complete your transaction online.   To determine your eligible and gather the necessary information, please visit Online Services Eligibility and then proceed to Texas x Texas. 

You can check your driving eligibility and pay any reinstatement, occupational license or interlock license fees on Driver License Eligibility. 

If you are not a US citizen, you will be required to provide documentation proving lawful presence for any driver license or identification card transaction.

If you are applying for a CDL for the first time, or re-applying because your CDL has been expired for more than two years, the Code of Federal Regulations require you to obtain a CLP and hold it for a minimum of two weeks before you can apply for your CDL.  This permit allows you to practice on public roadways with a qualified CDL holder in the cab with you so that you may receive behind the wheel experience under a controlled setting.

To find out more information about the requirement to hold a CLP, please visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's website on obtaining a CDL. For information on the Texas process, visit our Commercial Driver License webpage.

The most convenient way to renew your CDL while out-of-state is online, by telephone, or by mail.  Review Renew Your Texas DL, CDL, Motorcycle License or ID for eligibility requirements.

If you do not meet the eligibility requirements, you will need schedule an in-person appointment through the Texas Scheduler.

Yes. A valid medical certificate must be provided and maintained on file for all CLP and commercial driver license holders. To locate your nearest certified medical examiner, visit the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration's webpage, and for more information on commercial driver licenses, visit our Commercial Driver License webpage.

The Department receives medical certificate information electronically from the National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME).  After your medical examiners submits your information to the NRCME, it will be transmitted to the Department within a few days.  

You may check to ensure your Medical Certificate has been processed by accessing License Eligibility. 

To obtain a copy contact the Department of State Health Services/Vital Statistics or call 1-888-963-7111. Individuals born outside of Texas, contact the vital statistics bureau in your state of birth.

If you do not find the answer to your question listed here within our FAQ's, you can always contact our Customer Service Center for assistance.