The cost of a driver’s license in the state of Texas can vary depending on a number of factors. The state’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) sets the fees for driver’s licenses and related services, and these fees are subject to change at any time. So, how much does a driver’s license cost in Texas?
Currently, the fee for a standard Class C driver’s license in Texas is $33. However, this fee may change based on several factors, such as whether the applicant needs to take a driving test, the length of time for which the license is valid, and whether the applicant opts for a REAL ID-compliant license.
For those who are over the age of 18 and have held a learner’s permit for at least six months, the fee for a driver’s license with a six-year validity period is $33. This fee covers not only the cost of the license itself but also any required testing or processing fees. If the applicant is under the age of 18, the fee for a provisional license is $16.
In addition to the standard Class C license, Texas offers several other types of driver’s licenses that come with their own set of fees. For example, a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in Texas costs $61 or $67, depending on whether the applicant opts for a four-year or six-year validity period. Meanwhile, a motorcycle license in Texas costs $16 for a six-year validity period.
One important factor to consider when calculating the cost of a driver’s license in Texas is whether the applicant chooses to obtain a REAL ID-compliant license. Beginning October 1, 2021, all Texans who wish to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building must have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification. While the cost of a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license in Texas is the same as that of a standard Class C license ($33), applicants must present additional documentation to prove their identity and residency.
To obtain a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license in Texas, applicants must provide:
– One document proving identity, such as a birth certificate or passport
– One document proving Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2 form
– Two documents proving Texas residency, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
In addition to the cost of the license itself, there may be other fees associated with obtaining a driver’s license in Texas. For example, if the applicant needs to take a driving test, there may be a testing fee of $11. If the applicant fails the driving test and needs to retake it, there may be an additional fee of $25.
Overall, the cost of a driver’s license in Texas can range from $16 for a provisional license to $67 for a six-year CDL. Applicants should be prepared to pay the required fees and provide all necessary documentation to obtain their license. By understanding the costs associated with obtaining a driver’s license in Texas and planning accordingly, applicants can ensure a smooth and efficient licensing process.
