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The main focus of the company has always been great personal service and attention to detail. We differentiate ourselves from other moving companies for the following reasons:
We are an independently owned moving company based out of McAllen, Texas. In addition to being a full-service moving company serving local and statewide moves, Chapa’s Moving Service offers packaging, loading, and unloading for our clients who prefer to move themselves.
Moving to Texas soon? One of the first things you’ll want to take care of is getting your Texas drivers license. Fortunately, if you already have a valid license from another U.S. state, the process is pretty straightforward. Just head to your local Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office with your current license, proof of Social Security number, proof of your Texas address, and payment for the fees, and if required, be prepared to take a written exam.
No driving test is needed if your out-of-state license is valid. Whether you’re transferring your old license or getting a new one for the first time in Texas, there are a few simple steps to follow. This guide will walk you through the Texas drivers license requirements, from the paperwork to the DPS visit, so you’ll be out on the Texas roads with your new license in no time.
Texas Drivers License Requirements & Steps (New License)
Getting your first Texas drivers license? Whether you’re a teen turning 16 or an adult who’s never had one, here’s what you need to know about how to get a Texas drivers license. Teens must complete a learner’s permit, a driver education course, and supervised driving hours.
All applicants need to bring ID, as well as proof of Social Security and Texas residency, to the DPS. You’ll need to pass a written, vision, and road test (if required). Here’s everything you need to know to make the process smooth and avoid delays.
Minimum Age and Learner’s Permit Requirements
The state uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program to help new drivers build safe driving skills, step by step. Here are the steps and instructions for how to get a Texas drivers license:
Learner’s permit (15–17): Teens can obtain a permit at 15 with parental consent. You’ll need to complete a driver’s ed course, pass a written test, and log at least 30 hours of supervised driving (10 at night) with a licensed adult. This is to prevent distracted driving and get new drivers to drive safely. You'll also need to bring the required documents so they can verify your permit.
Provisional license (16–17): After six months and meeting your driving hours, you can drive unsupervised, but you aren’t allowed to drive from midnight to 5 a.m., and only one non-family passenger under 21 can be in the car. This is to ensure you are a safe driver. Teens must take a driving test and complete the Impact Texas Teen Driver (ITTD) program, which covers distracted and impaired driving.
Full license (18+): Once you turn 18, you can get a full license without restrictions. Driver education is still required for 18–24-year-olds; it is optional after 25. Hardship licenses are available to minors with special school, work, or family needs.
Required Documentation
When you go to the Texas DPS office, you can either complete your application for a Texas drivers license and bring it with you or fill one out there. You’ll also need to bring the following tips if you’re wondering how to get a Texas drivers license:
Proof of identity: U.S. passport or birth certificate
Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence: Examples include a U.S. birth certificate or passport
Proof of Texas residency: Two documents with your name and Texas address, such as utility bills, mortgage statements, or bank statements
Proof of Social Security Number: Your Social Security card
Driver's education certificate: Proof of completing a six-hour driver's education course
Impact Texas Driver (ITD) Program certificate: Proof that you completed the ITD program
Scheduling a DPS Appointment
Texas DPS office hours vary by location but are typically Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Some offices require appointments, especially for first-time licenses. You can schedule online at dps.texas.gov.
Steps to Apply for a New Texas License
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get a Texas drivers license that tests your knowledge :
Step 1: Complete Driver’s Education
If you’re 18–24, take the 6-hour adult course. They will give you a Texas driver's handbook that covers topics such as traffic laws, safe driving practices, road signs, public safety, and vehicle operation. It's highly recommended that teens aged 15–17 complete 32 hours of classroom instruction and 44 hours of behind-the-wheel training.
You’ll also need your certificate for your 1-hour Impact Texas Young Drivers (ITYD) program. This will help everyone be eligible to pass on the first try.
Step 2: Gather Your Documents
To get a Texas adult driver's license, bring originals or certified copies proving your ID, Social Security number, U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, Texas residency, and, if you have a car, registration and insurance, as part of the completion process .
Schedule an appointment at your local driver’s license office. Provide the required documentation, have your photo and fingerprints taken, pay the application fee, and pass the vision, written, and practical driving skills test.
Step 5: Pass the Driving Test
Bring your ITYD certificate and practice to ace the behind-the-wheel exam.
Step 6: Get Your License
Congratulations! Now you know how to get a Texas drivers license. You’re ready to drive in Texas. Your official driver’s license will typically arrive by mail within 2-3 weeks. To check the mailing status of your card, visit the mailingstatus web page.
Additional Texas Drivers License Requirements for How to Get a Texas Drivers License
Name changes: Update your name with the Social Security Administration first, then visit DPS for a new license. You have 30 days to make this change at the Texas DPS.
Address changes: Report any address change within 30 days via dps.texas.gov.
Lost or stolen licenses: Request a replacement online or in person at a DPS office.
Out-of-state transfers: If you already have a valid license from another state, you must transfer it within 90 days of establishing Texas residency.
Fees and Validity for How to Get a Texas drivers license
New license: $33
Replacement license: $11
Fees vary, depending on age. Check the Texas DSP fees for more information. While Texas drivers licenses are valid for 8 years, be aware of the risks associated with driving without proper documentation.
Transfer Your Out-of-State Driver’s License – Texas Drivers License Requirements & Steps For How to Get a Texas Drivers License
New Texas residents can legally drive with a valid, unexpired driver license from another U.S. state, U.S. territory, Canadian province, or qualifying country for up to 90 days after moving to Texas. You must apply for a Texas license in person at any driver license office to continue to drive legally after 90 days.
Requirements for Transferring Your License:
Valid Out-of-State license: Must be current and not expired or suspended; Expired licenses may require additional testing
Proof of identity: Bring a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or other approved ID
Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub
Proof of Texas residency: Documents like a utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail
Fees: The standard fee is $33 for a new license or transfer
Gather your documents: Bring your current license, ID, Social Security verification, and Texas residency proof.
Visit DPS: Submit documents, take a vision test, and pay the fee. Written and driving tests are usually not required if your out-of-state license is valid. During your visit, you will:
Submit your documents for verification
Take and pass a vision test
Pay the applicable license fee
Receive your Texas license: Once your application is processed and you surrender your out-of-state license, you will receive your new Texas drivers license.
Additional Considerations for How to Get a Texas Drivers License
Teen drivers: Must follow Texas Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws, including curfew, passenger limits, and seatbelt rules.
Name or address changes: Update DPS records promptly with any changes to your name or address. Some changes may also require updating Social Security records with the Social Security Administration first.
Online Resources for How to Get a Texas Drivers License:
Agency Locations - Make an Appointment at the Agency
To make an appointment at a Texas DPS office, use the online scheduler at www.txdpsscheduler.com. You can book appointments up to six months in advance. Same-day appointments online start around 9:30 a.m.
How to get a Texas drivers license and make an appointment:
Online: Go to the Texas DPS online scheduler
Schedule: Select the service you need and find an available time; appointments can be made up to six months in advance.
Same-day appointments: Check the scheduler around 9:30 a.m. for new same-day appointments that become available.
At the office: Some offices may have self-service kiosks for scheduling appointments if one is available.
Additionally, you should arrive at the DPS office no earlier than 30 minutes before your appointment. If you are more than 30 minutes late, your appointment will be canceled. Although the standard office hours for Texas DPS driver's license offices are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, most services, including driver's tests, are by appointment only. You can search for the nearest Texas DPS driver’s license officeonline.
How to Get a Texas Drivers License FAQs
How Long Does It Take to Get Your License (in the Mail)?
You will typically receive your new driver's license in the mail within 2-3 weeks.
What Is Proof of Residency In Texas?
Proof of residency in Texas may include utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements, or pre-printed pay stubs.
How Much Does a Texas Drivers License Cost?
A standard Texas drivers license costs $33 for both new licenses and renewals. The fee for drivers under 18 is $16.
How Long Is a Texas Drivers License Good for?
A Texas drivers license is valid for 8 years.
How Do You Replace a Lost Driver’s License in Texas?
To replace a lost driver’s license in Texas, you can either schedule an appointment at the DPS or apply online through the dps.texas.gov website.
How Can I Change the Name On My Driver License?
To change the name on your Texas drivers license, you’ll need your legal name change document, such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree. First, update your name with the Social Security Administration (SSA). You must visit a Texas DPS office within 30 days of the legal name change to update your license.
What Might Keep You From Getting a Texas Drivers License?
Factors that can prevent you from getting a Texas drivers license include criminal convictions, such as certain misdemeanors or family violence offenses, unpaid child support, a suspended license, or failing to pass the required exams.
At What Age Can I Obtain a Driver’s License in Texas?
In Texas, the minimum age to obtain a driver’s license is 16.
How Long Can You Drive On An Out-of-State Driver License After Moving To Texas?
In Texas, you must transfer your out-of-state driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency.
How Can I Update The Address On My Texas Drivers License?
You can update the address on your Texas drivers license online, by mail, or in person by visiting a Texas DPS office. You must report your change of address within 30 days of moving.
Moving to Texas? Chapas Moving Service Is Here to Help
Getting your Texas drivers license doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you’re a new driver or transferring from another state, being prepared with the right documents and knowing what to expect will save you time. Schedule your DPS appointment, complete each step, and you’ll have your new Texas drivers license in no time. If you’re moving to Texas, our McAllen movers can help! Give us a call today at 956-686-3247 for a free quote. We can assist with local moving, long distance moving, storage, and more. We even offer financing!
Chapa's Moving Service
We are an independently owned moving company based out of McAllen, Texas. In addition to being a full-service moving company serving local and statewide moves, Chapa’s Moving Service offers packaging, loading, and unloading for our clients who prefer to move themselves.
