Where the Abilene office is located and what it handles

The Abilene Drivers License Office is in Abilene, Texas, and issues driver licenses, identification cards, and handles license renewals and replacements. This is a full-service Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) office, meaning you can walk in to take your written test, road test, or handle most license transactions in one visit.

The office serves Taylor County and surrounding areas. If you live in or near Abilene, this is likely your closest location for in-person license work. You do not need an appointment for most services, though some DPS offices have begun offering them — it's worth calling ahead to confirm current policy.

Key Takeaways

  • The Abilene office handles written tests, road tests, new licenses, renewals, and ID card services without requiring an appointment in most cases.
  • You will need to bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of identity — the specific documents depend on whether you are a new driver or renewing.
  • Road tests must be scheduled in advance, even if walk-in written tests are available, so call ahead for testing availability.
  • Hours and exact services can change, so contact the office directly before making the trip to confirm they offer what you need.

What documents to bring for a new license

If you are getting your first Texas driver license, bring your Social Security card (or a document showing your number), a document proving your identity (passport, birth certificate, or military ID), and two documents proving your current address (utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail dated within 90 days).

You will also need to bring your learner permit if you already have one. The Abilene office will verify these documents before you take the written test. If any document is missing or expired, staff can tell you what else you need before you sit for the test.

What to expect when you take the written test

The written test covers Texas traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer 30 multiple-choice questions on a computer or paper form, depending on the office setup. You need to answer at least 21 questions correctly to pass.

The test takes about 30 minutes. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period between attempts in Texas. Many people pass on their first try if they study the Texas Driver Handbook beforehand, which is free online through the DPS website.

How to schedule and take your road test

Road tests must be scheduled ahead of time; you cannot walk in and take one the same day. Call the Abilene office to book your appointment. You will need to provide your learner permit number and confirm you have passed the written test.

On test day, bring your learner permit, proof of insurance for the vehicle you will drive, and the vehicle itself. The examiner will check that the car is safe (working brakes, lights, wipers, and horn), then take you on a 15- to 20-minute drive through local streets. You will be tested on basic maneuvers like parking, turning, and stopping. If you pass, you walk out with a temporary license that day.

Renewing or replacing an existing license

If your license is expiring or you need a replacement, the Abilene office can handle it. Renewals can often be done by mail or online through the DPS website, but if you prefer to do it in person, bring your current license and proof of residency. The process takes a few minutes.

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you will need to report it and pay a replacement fee. Bring your ID and proof of address. A replacement license is usually ready the same day or within a few business days.

Hours, contact information, and what to bring

The Abilene Drivers License Office is located at 5834 South 1st Street, Abilene, TX 79605. Standard hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though hours may vary by season or staffing. Call ahead at the office to confirm current hours before you visit.

The phone number for the Abilene office is (325) 676-6666. You can also visit the Texas DPS website to check hours, confirm services, or find answers to common questions. If the office is closed or you cannot reach them, the DPS main line can direct you to the nearest open location.

What to do if the office is closed or too busy

If the Abilene office has a long wait or is temporarily closed, other DPS offices in the region can handle most of the same services. Nearby offices serve Lubbock, Waco, and other West Texas cities. You can take your written test at any DPS office, though road tests must be scheduled at the location where you plan to take them.

Some services, like renewing by mail, do not require a visit at all. Check the Texas DPS website to see whether your specific need can be handled online or by mail before making a trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to take the written test at the Abilene office?

Most DPS offices do not require appointments for written tests, but policy can change. Call (325) 676-6666 to confirm whether the Abilene office is currently accepting walk-ins for testing. Road tests always require an appointment scheduled in advance.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day or return another day — there is no waiting period in Texas. Study the Texas Driver Handbook between attempts. The handbook is free on the DPS website and covers all topics on the test.

Can I renew my license by mail instead of visiting the office?

Yes, many renewals can be done by mail or online through the Texas DPS website. You do not need to visit the Abilene office unless your license requires an in-person renewal (for example, if it was suspended or if you need a new photo). Check the DPS website or call the office to see whether your renewal qualifies for mail-in service.

What vehicle can I use for my road test?

You can use any vehicle registered in Texas that is safe and insured. The car must have working brakes, lights, wipers, horn, and mirrors. You cannot use a vehicle with modifications that make it unsafe, and the examiner will inspect it before the test begins.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the road test?

You receive a temporary license the same day you pass the road test. Your permanent license is mailed to your address within one to two weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving until the permanent one arrives.