How to Get a Texas DPS Appointment (Driver’s License & Road Test)

Navigating the Texas “DMV” system can be one of the most confusing experiences for a new resident. The first and most important secret you must know is that Texas splits its services between two completely different agencies:

1. The DPS (Department of Public Safety): This is the office for your person. Go here for your Driver’s License, Learner’s Permit, ID Card, and Road Test.
2. The DMV (handled by your County Tax Office): This is the office for your car. Go here for your Vehicle Registration, Title, and License Plates.

This guide will show you how to correctly schedule your mandatory appointment at the DPS (Driver’s License Office)and will also explain the separate process for your vehicle.

How to Schedule Your DPS Appointment (The ONLY Way)

All Texas Driver’s License Offices are by appointment only. You cannot walk in. You must use the official txdpsscheduler.com portal.

The best strategy is to book your appointment weeks or months in advance, as slots fill up very quickly.

Step-by-Step Booking Guide:

1. Go to the official Texas DPS Appointment Scheduler: [https://public.txdpsscheduler.com/]
2. It will ask for your information. If you are a new customer, click “New Appointment.”
3. You will need to enter your Name, Date of Birth, and the last four digits of your SSN.
4. On the next screen, you must select the exact service you need.

What to Book: A “Cheat Sheet” for DPS Services

The service list is confusing. Here is what to select.

• If you need a…Learner's Permit or Written Test
  • Choose this service: “Apply for first-time Texas DL/Permit.” The written test (knowledge test) is part of this appointment.
• If you need to…Take your Driving Test
  • Choose this service: “Road Test (Skills Test) – Class C.” (Do not select this until you have held your permit for the required time).
• If you need to…Renew Your License
  • Choose this service: “Renewal/Replacement.” (Note: Check if you can renew online first! See our FAQ below).
• If you need to…Transfer an Out-of-State License
  • Choose this service: “Apply for first-time Texas DL/Permit.” (This is the correct option for all new residents).
• If you need to…Change Your Address
  • Choose this service: “Renewal/Replacement.” (Or, you can change your address online for a much faster experience).
• If you need a… CDL Service
  • Choose this service: “CDL Services.” This is for any commercial license service, including applying for or renewing your Texas Hazmat Endorsement.

How to Get a Same-Day Appointment (The “Standby” Option)

If you cannot wait weeks for an appointment, most DPS offices offer a very limited number of same-day slots.

• How it works: Arrive at the DPS office 30 minutes before it opens.
• What to do: Check in at the kiosk and select the “Same-Day” or “Standby” option. This will place you in a virtual queue to take the slot of a “no-show.”
• Warning: This is not guaranteed, and wait times can be hours long. It is a last resort.

How to Register Your VEHICLE (The County Tax Office)

This is the process your old article got wrong. You CANNOT register your car at the DPS office.

You must go to your local County Tax Assessor-Collector’s office.

1. Find Your Office: You must find your specific county’s website. Search Google for “[Your County Name] Tax Assessor-Collector” (e.g., “Harris County Tax Office” or “Dallas County Tax Office”).
2. Check Their Process: Each of the 254 counties in Texas has its own system.
   • Some counties (like Travis) require an appointment using their own separate booking system.
   • Other counties may accept walk-ins.
3. Gather Your Documents: For a new resident, you will need your out-of-state title, proof of Texas insurance, and your vehicle inspection report.

Related Vehicle Services:

• If you just bought a car from a private seller, you will first need a Texas temporary tag to drive it legally.
• If you’ve lost your current registration, you can learn how to get a copy of your vehicle registration online.

Required Documents for Your DPS Appointment (REAL ID)

Before you go to your DPS (Driver’s License) appointment, you must gather your documents. Texas issues all new licenses as a “REAL ID.”

You will need all of the following original documents:

1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence:
   • U.S. Passport or U.S. Birth Certificate
   • Permanent Resident Card or other immigration documents
2. Proof of Texas Residency (TWO documents):
   • You must bring TWO recent (within 90 days) documents from different sources with your name and Texas address.
   • Examples: Utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or your new vehicle registration (from the County Tax Office).
3. Proof of Social Security Number:
   • Original Social Security card
   • W-2 or 1099 form (must show full SSN)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)