The Texas Driver's License Guide

New state. New license.

You moved to Texas. Now Texas would like to see some paperwork. Here's how to turn your out-of-state license into a Texas driver's license without showing up missing the one document you needed.

↓ Let's get licensed
The number to remember

You've got up to 90 days.

New Texas residents can generally drive with a valid, unexpired driver's license from another U.S. state, U.S. territory, Canadian province or other qualifying jurisdiction for up to 90 days after moving to Texas.

Translation: don't panic on moving day. But don't leave this sitting on your to-do list forever either.
01
Own a vehicle?

Your car goes first.

If you're a new resident surrendering an out-of-state driver's license and you own vehicles, Texas DPS requires evidence that your vehicles are currently registered in Texas.

You'll also need proof of insurance for each vehicle you own.

01 Get your Texas vehicle paperwork handled
02 Keep your current Texas registration
03 Bring proof of insurance
04 Then tackle the driver's license
02
Build the folder

Gather your documents.

Texas DPS needs documentation establishing who you are, that you live in Texas and that you're eligible for a Texas driver's license.

□ Proof of identity Required
□ Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence Required
□ Social Security number Required
□ Proof of Texas residency Two documents
□ Current out-of-state driver's license Surrender it
□ Texas vehicle registration If applicable
□ Proof of vehicle insurance If applicable
No car? Texas DPS allows applicants who don't own a vehicle to affirm that they don't own one.
2
Don't show up with one

Bring two proofs of Texas residency.

Texas DPS requires two printed documents showing your name and Texas residential address. The address on both documents should match.

Lease or mortgage document
Utility or residential service bill
Homeowners or renters insurance
Auto insurance document
Qualifying financial statement
Other DPS-approved residency document
03
Good news

You may not have to take the driving test again.

If you're 18 or older and surrender an eligible out-of-state driver's license that is valid or has not been expired for more than two years, Texas generally waives the knowledge and skills exams.

Different rules can apply depending on your age, where your current license was issued and how long it has been expired.

Coming from another country? Texas has reciprocity arrangements with certain countries, while other applicants may need testing. Check DPS requirements for your specific license.
Before you leave the couch

Make the appointment.

First-time Texas driver's license applicants and out-of-state transfers need to visit a driver license office in person. Texas DPS uses an appointment system, so schedule before you go.

Smart move: DPS has a REAL ID Document Check tool that can build a personalized list of the documents you should bring. Use it before your appointment.
Appointment day

What happens at DPS?

You've got the documents. You've got the appointment. Now comes the easy part.

01 Submit your application
02 Present your required documents
03 Surrender your applicable out-of-state license
04 Provide signature + thumbprints
05 Get your photo taken
06 Take the vision exam
07 Pay the applicable fee
04
Almost official

You'll leave with a temporary license.

Once your Texas driver's license is issued, DPS provides a temporary license that lets you drive while the permanent card is being mailed.

Before leaving the office, check the temporary license carefully and make sure your name, address and other information are correct.

Then? DPS says the permanent card typically arrives by mail in about two to three weeks.
License? Check.

New Texas driver. How's the auto insurance?

New ZIP code, new commute and a new place to park can all matter for your auto insurance. Hey Charley can help you look at your options.

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