Gov. Abbott Announces Reopening of DPS Offices

SAN ANGELO, TX — On Thursday Governor Abbott announced the Texas Department of Public Safety will reopen driver license offices on Tuesday, May 26, 2020. 

The reopening will be done in phases and only a limited number of services that will require an appointment. As part of this opening plan, DPS will launch a statewide driver license (DL) appointment system that allows customers to book appointments up to six months in advance.

"This phased opening of our driver license offices and the launch of DPS' online appointment system prioritizes the health and safety of our communities and ensures Texans have access to the services they need at their local driver license offices," said Governor Abbott. "I thank DPS for developing this safe and strategic plan to open their offices and for launching a new appointment system to streamline our driver license services."

Phase 1

Offices in DPS’ Northwest and West Texas regions will reopen with limited services beginning May 26, 2020. Customers who currently do not possess a Texas DL, CDL, learner permit, or ID card, as well those who require a driving test, can begin scheduling appointments in these two regions on May 22 at 1 p.m. 

Phase 2

Offices in DPS’ South and Central Texas regions will reopen with limited services beginning May 29, 2020. Customers who currently do not possess a Texas DL, CDL, learner permit, or ID card, as well those who require a driving test, can begin scheduling appointments in these two regions on May 26 at 1 p.m.

Phase 3

Offices in DPS’ North and Southeast Texas regions will reopen with limited services beginning June 3, 2020. Customers who currently do not possess a Texas DL, CDL, learner permit, or ID card, as well those who require a driving test, can begin scheduling appointments in these two regions on May 29 at 1 p.m.

Phase 4 

Customers will be allowed to schedule an appointment for all DL office transactions anywhere in the state. Phase 4 is expected to begin midsummer. DPS will announce details on this phase at a later date. Extension for expiration dates will remain in effect until phase 4 is implemented.