The Terrell DMV Office Location and Hours

The Terrell Driver License Office is located at 1515 W. Moore Avenue, Terrell, TX 75160. This is a full-service Texas Department of Public Safety office where you can renew a driver license, get an ID card, take a written or driving test, and handle most standard DMV transactions.

Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., closed on state holidays and weekends. The office does not take walk-ins for road tests — you must schedule a driving test appointment in advance through the Texas DPS website or by calling ahead. For other services like license renewal or ID card requests, you can walk in, but arriving early in the morning typically means shorter wait times.

Parking is available on-site. The office is in a commercial area near other businesses, so if you cannot find parking directly at the building, street parking is usually available nearby.

Key Takeaways

  • The Terrell office is at 1515 W. Moore Avenue and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with no weekend or holiday hours.
  • Road test appointments must be scheduled ahead of time — you cannot walk in and take a driving test the same day.
  • For license renewals, ID cards, and written tests, you can walk in without an appointment, but morning visits usually have shorter waits.
  • Bring your current ID, proof of residency, and any other documents the specific transaction requires before you go.
  • If the Terrell office cannot handle your request, the nearest larger DMV offices are in Arlington and Dallas, about 30 to 45 minutes away.

What Documents to Bring

The documents you need depend on what you are doing. For a driver license renewal, bring your current license, proof of Texas residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number. If you are renewing by mail or online, you do not need to visit the office at all — check the Texas DPS website to see if your renewal is may be able to access for remote processing.

For a new ID card or a license for the first time, bring proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or previous license), proof of residency, and your Social Security number. If you are taking a written test, bring the same documents plus any study materials you want to review before the test.

For a road test, bring your current permit or license, proof of residency, and the vehicle you will be tested in. The vehicle must be registered, insured, and in working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, and wipers before the test begins.

How to Schedule a Road Test Appointment

Road test appointments in Terrell fill up weeks in advance, especially during spring and summer. You cannot schedule by phone at the Terrell office itself — you must use the Texas DPS online appointment system at the state website or call the statewide appointment line. The phone number and website link are on the Texas DPS homepage.

When you schedule, you will choose a date, time, and location. Terrell is one option, but if no slots are open there, you can book at Arlington or other nearby offices. Appointments are typically available in 15-minute windows throughout the day. Arrive 10 minutes early with your permit, proof of residency, and the vehicle you will drive.

If you need to cancel or reschedule, do so through the same online system or by calling the statewide line. Canceling at least 24 hours ahead keeps you from losing your spot.

What to Expect During Your Visit

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and take a number. You will wait until your number is called. For a license renewal or ID card, the process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes from check-in to completion. For a written test, allow 30 to 45 minutes. The examiner will verify your documents, take a photo, and process your request or administer the test.

Bring all required documents in original form — photocopies are not accepted for proof of identity or residency. If a document is missing, you will be asked to leave and return with it. The office cannot issue a license or ID on the spot if your paperwork is incomplete.

Payment is by cash, check, or card. Renewal fees and ID card fees vary, so check the Texas DPS website for current pricing before you go. If you are taking a written test, there is no fee for the test itself, but a license or ID card issued after passing has its own fee.

When the Terrell Office Cannot Help You

The Terrell office handles most routine transactions, but some requests require a larger regional office. If you need a commercial driver license (CDL), a hazmat endorsement, or a motorcycle endorsement, you must go to Arlington or Dallas. The Terrell office also cannot issue a Real ID-compliant license if your documents do not meet federal standards — in that case, staff will tell you what additional documents you need and may refer you to a larger office.

If you are unsure whether Terrell can handle your specific request, call the office directly at the number listed on the Texas DPS website. Staff can tell you in one call whether to come in or go elsewhere.

Nearby DMV Offices If Terrell Is Closed or Full

The Arlington Driver License Office is about 30 minutes west of Terrell and typically has more appointment slots and longer hours. The Dallas offices are about 45 minutes away and serve as regional hubs with the widest range of services. Both are worth considering if Terrell has no road test appointments available for weeks or if you need a service the Terrell office does not provide.

You can also renew your license online or by mail if you meet the state's requirements — this is often faster than visiting any office. Check the Texas DPS website to see if your renewal is may be able to access for remote processing before you make the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online instead of going to the Terrell office?

Yes, if your license is not expired and you have not had certain violations or medical suspensions. The Texas DPS website has a tool that tells you whether your renewal is may be able to access for online or mail processing. If it is, you can renew without visiting an office.

What if I fail my road test in Terrell?

You can schedule another test through the same online appointment system. There is no waiting period between attempts in Texas, so you can book your next appointment when ready. Most people wait a few days to study before retesting.

Do I need an appointment for a license renewal at the Terrell office?

No. Renewals are walk-in only at the Terrell office. Appointments are required only for road tests. Arriving early in the morning usually means a shorter wait.

What if my proof of residency document is older than 90 days?

Texas requires proof of residency dated within 90 days. If your document is older, bring a second one that is current — two older documents do not substitute for one recent one. Utility bills, lease agreements, and bank statements all count if they show your name and current address.

Is the Terrell office open on holidays?

No. The office is closed on all state holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day, and Independence Day. Check the Texas DPS website for the full holiday schedule before you plan your visit.