That bill included a provision to start a working group to address possible changes to the “management and operating structure of the driver’s license program.” The bill also stipulates the working group explore the viability of transferring driver license responsibilities from DPS to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. Last year, lawmakers passed- and the Governor signed- a law extending the life of the agency. Over the past few years, the agency has faced pressure to improve long wait times and high call volumes. The majority of the customers who visit driver license offices in the state, an estimated 3.2 million people in Fiscal Year 2019, don’t have to, the agency stated. The agency encourages Texans to check the expiration date on their card and call 1-866-DL-RENEW (1-88) or visit to see if they are eligible to conduct their transaction online. Some Texas drivers who are seeking to renew their licenses can conduct transactions online or over the phone. “For customers who do not have an appointment, DL staff will be able to help schedule an appointment for a future day or for another office at their convenience.” “We are confident this will reduce the number of people who spend time waiting in line, as it will give them the ability to make an appointment and come in to the office at that specific day and time,” the agency wrote Thursday. The agency has been working on changes “for several months,” including a new appointment solution, which would allow customers to book in-person appointments at driver license offices up to six months in advance. “DPS continues to work with the Governor’s office towards safely opening the offices,” the agency wrote in a statement. Greg Abbott announced a phased reopening of the state’s businesses starting May 1, beginning with restaurants and retailers, as well as some state-run buildings. An agency spokesperson stated Thursday there is “no set date” for when those offices will reopen. The Texas Department of Public Safety closed the state’s driver license offices during the COVID-19 pandemic. AUSTIN (Nexstar) - When driver license offices reopen, Texans will notice some changes.

Texas new drivers license 2020