How to Schedule a DMV Appointment in Plano, Texas (DPS vs. Tax Office)

November 17, 2025
4 Min Read

If you are new to Plano, Texas, you need to know one critical secret before you head to the “DMV”: It doesn’t exist.

The “Plano DMV” Secret: DPS vs. Collin County Tax Office

Texas splits its services between two completely different offices:

  1. The DPS (Department of Public Safety): This is where you go for your Driver’s License, ID, and Road Test. This office is By Appointment Only.
  2. The Collin County Tax Office: This is where you go for your Vehicle Registration, Titles, and License Plates. This office accepts Walk-Ins.

If you go to the DPS for your license plates, you will be at the wrong building. This guide will show you exactly how to book the right appointment at the right office in Plano.

Driver’s Licenses: The Plano DPS Office (Parker Road)

Address: 2109 W. Parker Rd, Suite 224, Plano, TX 75023

This is the office for all Driver’s License services. You must have an appointment. Walk-ins are strictly not accepted for standard service.

How to Schedule Your DPS Appointment Online

  1. Visit the Official Portal: Go to the Texas DPS Appointment Scheduler.
  2. Login: Enter your First and Last Name, Date of Birth, and the last 4 digits of your SSN to verify your identity.
  3. Select “New Appointment”:
  4. Choose Your Service: This is the most important step.
    • “Apply for First Time Texas DL/Permit” (For new residents or teens).
    • “Renewal/Replacement” (If you are already a Texas resident).
    • “Road Test” (If you are ready to take your driving exam).
  5. Enter Your Zip Code: Enter 75023 or 75075 to find the Plano office.
  6. Pick a Date: Select an available time slot. Warning: Appointments here are often booked out for 2-3 months.

Getting a Same-Day Appointment (The 7:00 AM Trick)

If you can’t wait months for an appointment, the Plano DPS releases a limited number of same-day appointments every morning.

  • The Trick: You must be on the scheduler website between 7:00 AM and 7:45 AM.
  • Refresh Constantly: Keep refreshing the page. If you see a slot open up for “Today,” book it immediately. These spots are usually gone by 8:00 AM.

Vehicle Registration: The Collin County Tax Office (Park Blvd)

Address: 900 E. Park Blvd, Suite 100, Plano, TX 75074

This is the office for all Vehicle services (Titles, Plates, Registration Stickers).

  • Appointment Policy: Walk-ins ARE accepted. You do not strictly need an appointment, though you can book one to save time.
  • How to Book (Optional): Visit the Collin County Tax Assessor Website to see if an appointment slot is available.
  • Best Time to Go: If you are walking in, avoid lunch hours (11 AM – 2 PM) and the end of the month. Mid-week mornings (Tuesday-Thursday) are best.

Required Documents for REAL ID & New Residents

When you visit the DPS Office for your license, you must bring the correct REAL ID documents. If you miss one, you will be sent home.

  1. Proof of Identity (1 document):
    • Unexpired U.S. Passport
    • Original or Certified Birth Certificate
    • Permanent Resident Card
  2. Proof of Social Security Number (1 document):
    • Original Social Security Card (laminated cards are NOT accepted)
    • W-2 Form or 1099 Form with full SSN
  3. Proof of Texas Residency (2 documents):
    • You need TWO documents with your name and Plano address.
    • Examples: Utility bill (electric/water), car insurance policy, bank statement, or lease agreement.
    • Note: They must be dated within the last 90 days.
  4. Vehicle Registration (For New Residents):
    • If you are a new resident transferring an out-of-state license, you must register your vehicle at the Tax Office (Section 2) before you go to your DPS appointment. You must bring your new Texas registration receipt with you.

FAQs

Can I just walk into the Plano DPS on Parker Road?

No. You will be turned away at the door. The only exception is if you arrive early (before 7:30 AM) and manage to snag a “Same-Day” slot at the kiosk or on your phone, but this is a gamble.

I’m a new resident. Which office do I go to first?

You must follow the “Two-Step” rule:

Step 1: Go to the Collin County Tax Office (900 E. Park Blvd) to register your car and get Texas plates.

Step 2: Go to the DPS Office (2109 W. Parker Rd) to get your Texas Driver’s License. (Bring your registration receipt from Step 1!).

Can I renew my registration at Tom Thumb or Kroger in Plano?

Yes! If you are a current resident and just need a simple renewal sticker, you can visit the service desk at participating Tom Thumb or Kroger stores in Plano. You must bring your renewal notice and proof of inspection.

How do I cancel my Plano DPS appointment?

You cannot call to cancel. You must open your confirmation email and click the “Cancel/Reschedule” link, or log back into the txdpsscheduler.com portal with your confirmation number.

Conclusion

To survive the “Plano DMV,” remember: DPS is for your License (Appointment Required), and the Tax Office is for your Car (Walk-Ins Okay). Your best strategy is to book your DPS appointment months in advance if possible. If you need it sooner, try the “7:00 AM Refresh” trick to snag a same-day slot. And always, always double-check your document checklist before you leave the house.

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