Here’s the quick scoop: for a Texas driver’s license, you generally need proof of identity, Social Security number, Texas residency, and lawful presence or U.S. citizenship, plus any extra items based on your age and situation. Texas DPS also says to use its document checklist before your appointment because the exact list can vary.
Core documents
Bring these standard items to a Texas DPS office.
- Proof of identity, such as a valid U.S. passport or certified U.S. birth certificate.
- Proof of Social Security number, such as your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099.
- Proof of Texas residency, such as a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, school transcript, bank statement, or insurance policy.
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, if applicable.
Extra documents
Depending on your age or status, you may also need these.
- Driver education completion certificate if you are 18 to 24 and applying for your first Texas license.
- Impact Texas Drivers certificate if you are taking a driving test for the license.
- Current Texas vehicle registration for each vehicle you own, if you are a new resident surrendering an out-of-state license.
- Proof of insurance for each vehicle you own, or a statement that you do not own a vehicle.
- Out-of-state driver license, if you have one.
What else to expect
Texas DPS requires an application, a vision exam, and usually written and driving tests unless you qualify for an exemption. If you are 18 to 24, Texas also requires a 6-hour driver education course for a first-time license, unless you qualify for a waiver as a new resident with a valid unexpired out- of-state license.
Practical tip
The safest move is to use the Texas DPS document checklist before you go, because it gives a personalized list based on your exact situation. That helps avoid a wasted appointment and a return trip.
TL;DR: Bring identity, Social Security, Texas residency, and lawful presence/citizenship documents; add driver-ed or ITD certificates if required; and check the DPS checklist first.