What Documents Do I Need to Bring to the DPS to Get My Texas Driver's License
Before your DPS driver license office appointment, gather all required documents. Missing even one item means the DPS will not process your application and you will need to reschedule.
Complete Document Checklist
From Driving Logic: * ✅ ADE-1317 completion certificate — proves you completed the Adult Driver Education Course and passed the written knowledge exam From the Texas DPS ITAD program: * ✅ ITAD certificate — required for the driving skills test (valid for 90 days from completion) Proof of Identity — bring one: * Original state-issued birth certificate (not a hospital copy — photocopies not accepted) * Valid U.S. passport or passport card * Permanent resident card or other acceptable government-issued ID Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence — bring one: * U.S. birth certificate * Valid U.S. passport * Permanent resident card, refugee documentation, or other lawful presence document Two Proofs of Texas Residency — must be from two different sources: * Utility bill * Bank statement * Lease agreement or mortgage statement * Texas voter registration card * School records or other documents showing your Texas address Social Security Number Documentation — bring one: * Social Security card * W-2 form * SSA-1099 Proof of Insurance: * Current auto insurance card or policy for the vehicle you will use for the road test Vehicle for the Road Test: * An insured, registered vehicle — can be a friend's or family member's car Payment: * $33 DPS application fee — cash, check, or card
All Names Must Match
All documents must show the same name. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or a legal name change, bring supporting documentation showing the name change.
Schedule Your Appointment First
DPS driver license offices are by appointment only. Schedule at txdpsscheduler.com before your visit.
Quick Facts
Detail | Information |
ADE-1317 certificate | Required — from Driving Logic |
ITAD certificate | Required — valid for 90 days |
Proof of identity | One original document — no photocopies |
Proofs of Texas residency | Two from different sources |
Social Security documentation | Required |
Proof of insurance | For test vehicle |
Vehicle for road test | Required — insured and registered |
DPS fee | $33 |
Appointment | Required — txdpsscheduler.com |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring a car for the road test? Yes. You must provide an insured, registered vehicle for the in-car driving skills test. The DPS does not provide vehicles.
What if I do not have a U.S. birth certificate? A valid U.S. passport satisfies both the identity and citizenship/lawful presence requirements. Other documents such as a permanent resident card or naturalization certificate are also accepted. Check the Texas DPS website for the complete list.
Can I use a digital copy of my ADE-1317 certificate on my phone? Some DPS offices accept digital documents. To be safe, bring a printed copy. Confirm with your specific DPS office if you prefer to present it digitally.
My ITAD certificate expired before my appointment — what do I do? Complete the ITAD program again at impacttexasdrivers.dps.texas.gov — it is free and takes about 1 hour. Reschedule your DPS appointment for a date within 90 days of your new ITAD completion.
Where do I find the official DPS document checklist? The Texas DPS provides an interactive checklist tool at dps.texas.gov. Use it to confirm exactly which documents apply to your specific situation.