How to Transfer Out of State License to Texas

Welcome to the Lone Star State! Now that you’re a new resident, you have a 90-day window to transfer your out-of-state driver’s license to Texas.

This guide will walk you through the simple, step-by-step process at the Department of Public Safety (DPS).

License vs. Vehicle: STOP! Read This First!

In Texas, getting your license and registering your car are two separate processes done at two different offices. Do not confuse them!

• YOUR LICENSE: You have 90 days to get your Texas driver’s license at the Department of Public Safety (DPS). This guide covers this process.
• YOUR CAR: You have 30 days to register your vehicle at your local County Tax Assessor-Collector’s Office. This requires a vehicle inspection and proof of Texas insurance.

Your TX License Document Checklist (What to Bring)

This is the most important step. You must bring original documents to your appointment. Photocopies are not accepted.

1. Your Out-of-State License

• You must surrender your current, valid license from your previous state.
• If your license is expired, you may have to take the written and driving tests.

2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence (1 Document)

• U.S. Passport or Passport Card
• U.S. Birth Certificate (original or certified copy)
• Permanent Resident Card (“Green Card”)
• Employment Authorization Card

3. Proof of Identity (1 Document)

• Your out-of-state license will usually count for this. If it’s expired, bring one of the “Lawful Presence” documents from the list above.

4. Proof of Social Security Number (1 Document)

• Social Security Card (original)
• W-2 form
• Paystub (must show your full SSN)
• Note: This cannot be a document that is laminated.

5. Proof of Texas Residency (2 Documents)

• You must provide two different documents showing your name and new Texas address.
• Examples: Utility bill (electric, water, gas), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement (dated within 90 days).

How to Transfer Your License (The 5-Step Process)

Step 1: Schedule Your Appointment ONLINE This is the most critical step. You cannot walk into a DPS office. New resident appointments are limited and often must be booked weeks or months in advance.

• Go to the official Texas DPS Appointment Portal.
• Select the service: “New Texas Resident” or “Transfer Out of State License.”
• Find a location and book the first available date.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents Use the checklist which we mentioned above to collect all your original documents. Put them in a single folder so you don’t forget anything.

Step 3: Visit the DPS Office Arrive at your appointment on time. An employee will call you to the counter to:

• Review all of your documents.
• Collect your Social Security number.
• Scan your fingerprints.
• Take your photo.

Step 4: Pass the Vision Test (No Other Tests Needed!) You will be asked to look into a machine and read letters for a simple vision test.

• Good News: As long as you are surrendering a valid, unexpired license from another U.S. state, you DO NOThave to take the written knowledge test or the driving test.

Step 5: Pay the Fee & Get Your Temporary License You will pay the fee (around $25 for most adults) and surrender your out-of-state license. The DPS will then give you a temporary paper license (a receipt). This is your legal license to drive until your permanent plastic card arrives in the mail, which usually takes 2-3 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)