Texas Driver’s License Offices Reopening in Phases

The Texas Department of Public Safety will begin a phased opening of driver’s license offices starting Tuesday, with limited services being offered by appointment only.  As part of the reopening plan, DPS is launching a statewide driver license appointment system that will allow customers to book appointments up to six months in advance. 

The four-phase plan for the opening of driver’s license offices is as follows:

Phase 1: Offices in DPS’ Northwest and West Texas regions will reopen with limited services beginning Tuesday. Customers who currently do not possess a Texas driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, learner’s permit or ID card, as well those who are in need of a driving test, can schedule appointments in these two regions. That began at 1 p.m. Friday. 

Phase 2: Offices in DPS’ South and Central Texas regions will reopen with limited services beginning next Friday. Customers who currently do not possess a Texas driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, learner’s permit or identification card, as well those who are in need of a driving test can begin scheduling appointments in these two regions at 1 p.m. Tuesday. 

Phase 3: Offices in DPS’ North and Southeast Texas regions will reopen with limited services beginning June 3. Customers who currently do not possess a Texas driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, learner’s permit or identification card, as well those who are in need of a driving test can begin scheduling appointments in these two regions at 1 p.m. next Friday.

Phase 4 will allow customers to schedule an appointment at any driver’s license office transactions anywhere in the state and is expected to begin midsummer. DPS will announce details on this phase at a later date. 

In the meantime, if your license has expired since March 13, you don’t need to worry about renewing it right now. When Phase 4 is announced, and DPS offices fully reopen, you will have 60 days to renew your license without facing a penalty. The same pass applies to registration stickers, vehicle titling and renewal of disabled parking placards.

Many drivers are able to renew their licenses online. Find out if you are eligible here.